How to Prep for Adopting a Pet

There's no better feeling than adding a new loved one to the family. It can be difficult for both you and your pet to adjust to a new home, so here are some basic tips for introducing your new pet into your house. From setting up your new kitty condo to stocking up on chew toys, we help you through all the logistics of welcoming your new pet into your life.

• Before you bring your new dog or cat home, make sure you have all the necessary supplies to meet all your new pet's needs. Food, water, toys, a collar, and bedding are a great place to start.
• Be sure to pet-proof your home! Set up gates, lock toxic cleaning supplies in a cabinet, and buy a scratching post. Also, be sure to put any plants electrical cords, or anything fragile out of reach, and have some chew toys out instead.
• Your new friend might be a bit anxious about their new surroundings. Cats especially tend to be independent, so be patient and make sure they have lots of hiding places to observe and explore, such as cardboard boxes or cat trees. For dogs, it's good to have a schedule set for feeding, grooming, and walking, and it will also help to distribute responsibility between you and your partner.
• You can start to train your new pet as soon as they feel comfortable in your home. Set some time aside to review basic commands or actions, and use small treats or bits of dry food to reward your pets' correct responses. It might be difficult at first, but it will save you the exhaustion of trying to get them to unlearn bad behavior.
• Wait a few weeks before taking your dog out to any parks or crowded public places. Once they get acclimated to their surroundings, it will be easier for them to adjust to higher levels of excitement.

Get to know your pet! Note how they act around people and how they like to play, and make any necessary adjustments. Once they feel secure, your pet's personality will begin to shine.