Thinking of adding a four-legged friend to your household? Whether you live on your own or with a family, it's so important to think about safety, comfort and practicality before bringing your new pet home.
From gathering essential supplies to creating a comfortable sleeping spot for your pet, this guide covers everything you should know about getting the house ready before your companion arrives.
1. Pet-proofing your home
No matter if you rent or own your home, pet-proofing reduces the risk of damage and also makes things safer for everyone.
Before your new pet comes home, it's important to identify and remove any potential hazards. These could include fragile ornaments and heavy furniture – but remember, dogs can get into almost anything when you're not looking!
Try to secure loose wires, remove toxic plants, and make sure that small objects are safely stored on a high shelf or in a locking cupboard. This prevents accidental ingestion and removes a choking hazard.
2. Create a comfortable living space
Next, it's time to think about dedicating specific areas for your pet's everyday routine. Their activities will include eating, sleeping, and playing.
If you're planning on getting a puppy, it's a good idea to set up an indoor space for training and conditioning exercises.
Dogs in particular need to be shown how to settle down, and their home environment plays an important role in this process. For many households, dog crates provide a safe space that offers somewhere to sleep and aids in housetraining too.
With cats, you might find that your furry friend will be happy to settle down almost anywhere – perhaps even the kitchen sink! However, you should make sure that your home is still a safe and comfortable place for them to be.
3. Gather essential supplies
You'll need to equip your home with the necessary belongings tailored to your pet's needs. This includes food and water bowls, bedding, and more.
Most dogs require a degree of mental stimulation and enrichment in order to live happy and fulfilled lives. You can help them by offering puzzle toys, chew toys, and by dedicating time to their training. They might also need grooming equipment like brushes and shampoos.
Cats are low-maintenance in comparison to dogs, but you'll still need a few things to keep them happy. Scratching posts, for example, provide a safe outlet for their natural habits and instinctive behaviour. Cats also enjoy running and playing, so try to put non-slip mats over hard floors.
4. Prepare to introduce them
Finally, once you've got your home setup ready, you should prepare your family members and any existing pets for the new arrival!
If you're getting a young puppy or kitten, it's very important that you don't overwhelm him or her when they first arrive. Take things slowly: let them explore on their own, preferably one room at a time, and don't fuss them excessively. Only give them affection if they're clearly enjoying it!
When introducing new dogs or cats to your existing family pets, you'll need the process to be gradual. Start with baby gates and separate rooms before allowing them to interact freely in a neutral space. Once they've met, monitor them closely to make sure they're still getting on.
With careful preparation and a warm, gentle welcome, your new pet will soon settle in and start to feel like part of the family!
