First pets are such a joy for the entire family; the excitement of choosing an animal to come into your home and getting everything ready for them will stick with you and your loved ones for years to come. There’s a lot to think about, however, especially if you’ve never owned a pet before. Animals come with lots of responsibilities beyond the ones you need to think about every day; not only will they require lots of attention and love in addition to a healthy diet and daily exercise, but they may also need regular vet checkups, dental care, and medication and a collar to prevent fleas. Some pets are more prone to health issues than others, meaning you’ll have to be mindful of any problems before you travel with him or allow him to be around other animals, while others will require lots of time in training.
It’s also essential that you understand how to prepare your home for a new pet. Taking safety precautions now will ensure that he will be comfortable in your house and won’t encounter any problems with exposed cords, toxic plants, or accidents. Also, pet gates are invaluable tools for new owners, as they allow you to close off rooms you don’t want him to have access to. This will prevent chewing and other destructive incidents.
Here are a few things to consider when you’re thinking of getting a pet.
Find the Right Pet for You
Finding the right pet can take some time, so try to be patient as you go through this process. It’s not advisable to choose an animal based on looks alone; they may be cute, but if they’re a large breed and you live in a small home with a tiny yard, it won’t be a good fit. Do some research online to find out more about the kind of animal you’re interested in, such as common health issues, preferred food and exercise habits, and how best to get him acclimated to your home, especially if you’re thinking of rescuing. Rescue animals often suffer from anxiety and may require extra care or attention, especially during their first week at your home).
Declutter and Make It Safe
Your home will be your pet’s sanctuary; after all, it’s where he’ll spend almost all of his time for his entire life. Therefore, it should be a safe and welcoming place without any hazards. Go through your home and look for any potential issues from a pet’s point of view. Are there exposed cords that he might decide to chew? Rugs that have tassels that could become chew toys? Also, think about your pet possibly having access to foods that might be poisonous to him. Clearing these items out or putting them away will help your pet stay safe while decluttering will allow you to get your house nice and clean before he comes home.
Prepare to Clean
Even the most well-behaved pet will sometimes leave a mess behind, so it’s a good idea to have all the cleaning tools you’ll need all ready to go before they arrive. A great vacuum is ideal, but it will also be helpful to have an air purifier to help filter out pet dander and other allergens. Experts recommend that pet owners clean their furniture three to four times a year. You can spot clean on your own, but you may need to hire a professional for more extensive cleaning jobs which costs $150 to $200 on average.
Find a Vet
Finding a vet that is nearby is important, as you want to be able to get your pet there easily in case of an emergency. However, it’s also imperative to make sure the vet is kind, calm, and has experience working with different types of breeds. Do some research online to find the right veterinarian for you and your pet, and don’t be afraid to ask for a meet-and-greet between the doc and your pet before you make an actual appointment.
Bringing home a new pet can be a wonderful experience for your entire family; just make sure you’re all prepared for the work involved and that your house is ready to keep him safe. With some simple preparations, you can ensure that your new animal will love his new home.
For training that stops bad habits and brings out the best in your dog, connect with the Dog Gone Amazing Education Center today! Get in touch by calling 775-800-1011 or emailing dga@doggoneamazing.com.