Whether you’re the proud parent of a new pet or you’ve owned cats and dogs for years, it never hurts to know what supplies your furry companion needs. At Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic, we know that as a pet owner, you’re faced with many responsibilities, such as providing your pet with a clean environment and a healthy diet. As one of the leading spay and neuter clinics in Connecticut, we wanted to share a basic list of the most important supplies you should always have.  

Spay & Neuter Clinic’s Top Supplies Every Pet Owner Needs

1. Carrier

Cats and small dogs often need carriers for easy transportation. Especially during an emergency, placing your pets into a carrier will ensure they get to safety or receive the attention they need quickly. In a properly sized carrier, the animal should be able to lie comfortably and sit up with no issues.

2. Leash & Collar for Fido

All dogs require a strong leash — as well as a properly fitted collar or harness to keep them at your side during daily walks and exercise. The leash should be made of a durable and easy-to-hold material such as thick nylon or leather, so stay away from a standard rope or chains. Big no-nos: prong collars, which can pierce a dog’s neck and cause bad injuries, and tretractable leashes, which easily break and do not allow you to control your dog well.

3. A Collar for Fluffy

Many cats do not wear collars and I.D. tags, but they should even if they stay primarily indoors: Should they find themselves outside, they cn more easily be returned home safely. A breakaway collar is one of the best for your kitty in case he or she gets caught on a fence or something in the home where they may hang and suffocate. You can also train your cat to walk on a leash as long as it’s the figure-8 kind, which is used for small animals like ferrets.

4. Food & Water Bowls

Pets should have their own food and water dishes, and there are many to choose from at the pet store or online. Purchase bowls made of metal or ceramic, as these materials are durable and easy to clean and sanitize. Plastic can become pitted and harbor bacteria, causing your pet to become sick.

5. A Bed

With a comfortable pet bed, your dog or cat will have its own place to relax. Find a light material that’s easily washed and dried and holds its shape. You may also consider your pet’s special needs: In summer a dog with a thick coat may benefit from a bed with a cooling pad; cats and dogs who have stiffness in their joints would love to have a warming disk in the winter.

6. Brushes & Combs

The right brush for your pet depends on their type of coat. Bristle brushes are effective at removing debris from short coats, while rake-type brushes will penetrate and untangle thick fur, such as with German shepherds. You should also run a flea comb around their neck and back end regularly to check for any freeloaders.

By purchasing the right supplies, you’ll keep your pet happy and healthy, and if your dog or cat needs spay or neuter surgery along with other services, reach out to us at Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic. As a local non-profit organization, we have conducted more than 28,000 surgeries at a very reasonable cost. During their surgery visit, we also provide flea treatment, vaccines, nail trims, and microchipping. To schedule an appointment, call us today at (203) 690-1550 and like us on Facebook to receive our promotions and latest updates.