You can adopt a pet no matter where you live, whether it’s in a small flat, a senior housing complex, a mansion or a simple home. There are many other pets besides cats and dogs. You can now care for rabbits as well as chinchillas and hamsters. No matter if you adopt or purchase a pet, the steps to prepare for a new one are the same.
Pets, no matter how tiny they may be, are living breathing creatures who become an integral part of our daily lives. Each year, approximately 3.2 million animals from shelters are adopted into loving homes. You may be considering becoming one of these people. Where should you begin? What are the best ways to adopt a new animal and what risks come with pet ownership? These 15 tips will help you to answer these questions, and many more. Each living situation, each economic situation and every personality is different. These factors should be the first to influence your decision. As you spend time with your new pet, you’ll learn so much more than just these 15 tips. You can change someone’s life by saving an animal. Don’t stop learning after you prepare for your new pet.
1. Take Adequate Time
It is important to have enough time before getting a pet. It’s essential to have the time to prepare for a pet. This includes preparing your house, walking your dog and making appointments. Although reptiles, cats and other animals are relatively easy to care for, you should never leave them alone for long periods of time. Consider how long it will take you to train certain dog breeds and how much time each breed likes to spend outside. You may not have the time to prepare for a pet if you are working a lot. It is better to wait until your living situation has improved before you start preparing.
2. Protect your home from intruders by installing an escape-proof system
In addition to the time mentioned above, you should also prepare a safe home for your new pet. If you are bringing in a dog that has escaped in the past, consider hiring a fence-builder. Proofing your house on the exterior will not only keep them safe, but it will also help them avoid dangers such as burglars or fast-moving cars. Microchipping can be a good option if you have a pet that is hard to catch and will escape no matter what. It should come with every adopted pet.
3. Buy Proper Filtration Systems
Fish, reptiles and other aquatic animals are also considered pets. Do not be fooled. These animals require the same dedication to care, time and living conditions. For example, it’s not sufficient to place a goldfish into a tank with tap water. To maintain your other pets, you will need to invest in filtration systems, food and water cleaners to remove chlorine from the water. Reptiles also require lighting. When preparing to get a new pet, do extensive research on these factors.
4. Ensure Outside Time
You can’t just let your dog run around your backyard, or even be trapped in your fence. Like humans, dogs need stimulation. They should have the opportunity to go on walks in the neighborhood or even at the dog park. It is essential to help your dog become accustomed to other dogs and people. When you start taking your dog on longer walks, runs and hikes and come home with a tired pup, you’ll be happy.
5. Contact a Veterinarian
Most dogs and cats that are adopted from shelters already have their first vaccinations and are microchipped. You should contact your veterinarian as soon as you can to discuss any possible problems. It’s especially important if you are rescuing a dog or cat. You should administer de-worming treatments as soon as you can to both help your new stray animal and to keep your other pets healthy.
6. Prepare the Interior of Your Home
What about the interior? It’s also important to keep your pets safe inside the home if you have large dogs, cats or other animals that are prone to roaming. Make sure cabinets are properly secured to the wall. Remove vases and valuables from places that can be easily knocked down. You might even want to consider purchasing a waterproof mattress cover in case your pet gets into an accident. These details are important and should be considered when getting a new pet.
7. Consider Pet Daycare
Even though we would all like to plan ahead for our pets, there are always unforeseen events. If you have to hire exterminators to get rid of pests, your pet cannot stay at home while at work. A dog daycare facility or a family friend can be of assistance during these times. You can research centers in your area that have good reviews, are friendly and will take care of your pet while you’re gone.
8. Prepare Your Family
A pet is a responsibility that involves the whole family. It’s important that you sit down with your family and share time and responsibilities to prepare for and care for a new animal if you live in a large household. Some adjustments may be necessary. You might not be allowed to use your pool outside until your pet is comfortable. It will be worth the sacrifice if your family is willing to give up some luxuries and dedicate enough time for your pet.
9. Buy Enough Toys
You must provide your pet with certain stimuli once you have brought them home. This is true whether it’s a cat, dog or reptile. It is important to purchase new toys such as those which help to develop the teeth of your dog and plants that will make your fish or reptiles more comfortable. Buy them, but also use them! For example, cats need stimulation in order to develop their hunting instincts, particularly as kittens. Even though motorized hunting toys can be fun, it is better to play one-on-one with your pet.
10. Research Food
Once your pet is comfortable, you can be sure that they will develop a healthy appetite. Research the right food for your fish and reptiles, for example. It’s even more crucial when purchasing food for larger pets, such as cats and dogs. Always read reviews before buying food. Avoid cheap foods, or those that have a lot of fillers, like potatoes. Research how much food you should give your pet and divide it with treats, if you are training your new animal.
11. Allergies are a serious matter.
At any time, your pet could develop an allergy to certain foods or even linens or fragrances. You should be on the lookout for allergies. When a dog has an allergic reaction, they can experience hives, rashes and facial swelling. They may even vomit. It’s also important to stay in contact with your vet. Continue to watch your pet’s eating habits and stay alert. You should always introduce new foods to your pets in small quantities before introducing them to a full meal. It’s the same with certain cleaning products or creams that your pet may be allergic to. Ask your vet if you have any questions about the project or your pet’s allergies.
12. Consider Training
You can’t just rely on love and daily playtime to train your dog. Some pets may be more difficult to accept than others if they have experienced abuse. Even new pets may need more training. Even though raccoons can help calm your pet and stop them from barking incessantly, it is not enough to solve one problem while waiting for another. Hire a professional to help with issues such as biting, nipping and separation anxiety. They can also assist you in avoiding your pet. Sometimes it’s better to rely on professionals than yourself.
13. Cleaning your home
After playing outside, your pet will begin to shed and attract fleas and other pests. They may also track dust and pollen into your home. Before adopting a pet, you should consider whether or not you are allergic, have asthma, or have children with asthma. It’s essential to keep your home clean if you decide to adopt a pet. This will help to prevent the accumulation of dust and hair. You can do this by changing your HVAC filters and air conditioning filters, cleaning your ceiling fans or buying a vacuum designed to remove pet hair. You can also keep your pets clean and healthy by taking them regularly to a groomer.
14. Research Before Breeding
Adopting a pet solely for the purpose of breeding is never a smart idea. Even though pets, particularly outside cats, eventually produce their own litter, you should consider the risks associated with breeding, particularly in dogs. Purebred or overbred dogs are at greater risk of health problems later in life. These include asthma, hip bone problems, and growth stunting. You should know the history of the dogs and cats you allow to play outdoors, interact with each other, or meet up with neighbors. You will also be able to avoid health issues that may arise from genetic mutations.
15. Neutering
Neutering is a good option if you do not want your pet to breed. Local programs offer free neutering if your pet hasn’t been neutered yet. You just need to sign up for a waitlist. The waitlists are different for each local agency. You should weigh up the pros and cons before neutering your pet. Neutering cats can reduce their risk of cancer, but it can also result in increased weight and decreased playfulness. You’ll also need to make time to bring your pet to hospital and then care for them at home while they recover. Rest assured that your local vet clinic or shelter will provide you with information and resources to help you neuter your pet.
A Lifelong Friend
It should be fun to prepare for a new pet, but it should also require time and effort. You are welcoming a new member to your family, not just a cute little creature. Birds, reptiles, and dogs can all live up to 15 years. Preparing for a new animal will help you prepare for the years to come. Prepare yourself, your family, and your pet mentally, emotionally, physically, to make sure they have the best companion.
