The anticipation of getting a new furry friend and companion has gotten you all excited.
Filled with joy at the thoughts of the cuddles you will give to your pet and how you will take walks around your neighborhood, you can’t wait to bring your pet home.
You’re reading this right now because you want to get the best tips on how to prepare yourself for the arrival of your new pet.
But first, there are important things you should know.
Living with a pet is more than having a pet to cuddle, play, and watch TV with.
More than these lists of fun things to do with your pet are more important things; Responsibility.
Having a pet is like having a little child in your home.
And just like every little child, your pet will grow from being a baby to becoming a (naughty) teen, and then, an adult.
Before bringing a new pet home, here are 6 important things you should consider.
6 Things to Consider Before Bringing a New Pet Home
Do a breed research before bringing a new pet home
Do a breed research so you can know the kind of pet you want to get.
You can also make a list of the kind of pet you’d prefer and compare them with your research.
This research will not only help you know the eye color or fur type of your pet, but will also help you understand your pet and how to get along well with them.
During this research, you’d figure out that some dog breeds like Corgi might be small but they are loyal and fun to be with. Because of their intelligence and enthusiasm for work, they can also compete in dog sports and they are usually obedient.
You will also discover other breeds of dogs and cats, and be able to determine which of them you’d prefer.
Understand the sacrifices involved
Just as mentioned above, getting a pet is not as easy as it seems.
There are more sacrifices, responsibilities, and challenges involved that you won’t know until you get one for yourself.
You have to be prepared to devote a chunk of your time to your pet, especially if it’s a little pup.
Young puppies are crybabies and they need a lot of attention
Especially at night, you might hear their cries and moans which can be caused by hunger, cold, or lack of attention
You need to know if your work schedule, plans, and availability would allow you to get a puppy or an adult dog.
Pets need to be cleaned up after they poop, they need to be taken on walks, and you’d also have to play with them even if you don’t feel like it.
You should make sacrifices for your pet even before getting one.
Pets are not cheap
Owning a pet can be expensive.
They have to feed every day. You have to take care of their needs and buy them accessories like:
- A leash
- Adjustable collar and name tag
- Pet food and water bowl
- Pet bed
- Plush, squeaky, and chewy toys
- A brush or comb
- A bath bowl and so on.
You should also get a pet health insurance in case they get injured, bruised, or sick.
Pet-proofing your home
When you get a new pet, understand that your shoes, clothes, bags, or sofa could be in danger of being chewed, scratched, or damaged.
Keep everything they can damage out of their reach.
Ensure your trash can is not within their reach because most pets enjoy searching and scattering. So, put a lid on it and keep it away from your pet.
Whatever you think could harm your pet, ensure you hide them away because they are sure to find it.
You can also learn more about pet-proofing to ensure you have all the boxes checked.
Pets need to be trained
Pets need extensive training. This training will prevent them from pooping everywhere around the home or scattering your properties before you return.
It will also help them learn some basic pet skills.
You can take them to a pet school or train your pet at home.
Take pet classes
You might think you know enough about pets and you don’t need a pet class but there is a lot to learn from pet classes.
Pet classes also give you the opportunity to meet other pet parents like you who will be willing to share a helpful tip or two.
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Hope you found these tips helpful!
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Do you still think bringing a new pet home is the right choice?
Here are 5 important things to do after bringing a new pet home. This will guide you on your journey to becoming a pet parent.
5 important things to do after bringing a new pet home
Go to the vet after bringing a new pet home
Take your pet to a veterinary clinic to have them checked.
Learn about your pet’s underlying conditions or allergies.
Also, get recommended medications and pet food from the vet.
Prepare a safe space for your pet
Ensure your home is safe for your pet after bringing them home.
Make their bed and put their food and water nearby.
Put your pet on a leash and ensure they’re comfortable in their new space.
It might be a little difficult for your pet to adjust to a new home or a new life but ensure you make the change easy for them.
When they cry or make a fuss, understand them and try your best to make them comfortable.
Bond with your pet
After setting up your pet for comfort, take out time to bond with them.
This is the time to talk to them like you’d talk to a human friend.
Play with them. Cuddle them and allow them to get to know you.
Also, try not to get your pet during the holidays because staying with them for too long and eventually leaving for work after a long time can cause your pet to go through separation anxiety.
At first, bonding might be hard, especially if your pet is a teen, but with time you’d get used to each other.
Show your pet around the house
This is an opportunity to help your pet get used to their new home.
Take them for a walk around the house. Take them through the yard on a leash. Allow them to take in their surroundings.
Also, take your pet for a walk in the neighborhood and show your pet around.
Teach your pet their limits
Let your pet know what they can touch around the house by saying “No” and “Yes” often.
Also, stop them from chewing stuff in the house.
New pets tend to bring bad habits from their former home, you need to keep an eye on them and train them to know what they can touch and what they shouldn’t.
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Final words
Are you considering bringing a new pet home?
I hope you’re able to make the right decision with this short guide.
Pets are lovely to have and they are great companions but they also come with a load of responsibilities that you must be prepared for.
I hope this prepares you for what to expect as a pet parent.
Related post: 5 Ways to Heal after Losing your Pet
