Bringing a new pet home is a large and exciting change for both the pet and the owner. To keep your new dog or cat happy, promote proper pet health, and make the transition smoother, you need a plan to keep them from getting overwhelmed when you first bring them home. Below are a few tips for their first few days at home.

How to Introduce Your Pet to Your Home

1. Start With a Small Area

A house or apartment can seem like a large space for a small animal. Instead of letting them roam through the whole home, pick one room to be their home base for the first few days. Introduce them to this area, and then over several days, let them gradually explore larger portions of the house. Make sure their spot is private, safe, and away from your other animals in the house. The introduction to your other resident pets should be gradual, and you should always monitor their interactions at the beginning. 

2. Have All Their Needs Ready

If you're bringing a dog home, line the floor with newspaper or puppy pads, since even a potty trained dog can have accidents when stressed. You should also have their crate set up in the room if you plan to crate train. For cats, make sure there's a litter box available, as well as a scratching post or board and areas where your cat can climb and hide. In both cases, have food and water easily available. Set them up in a separate area from the cat's litter box. You should also have brushes, leashes, and toys on hand before your new family member’s arrival. Meeting these needs from the start will improve pet health and also help them feel comfortable and acclimated to the home.

3. Pet-Proof the Space & Let Them Explore 

Over time, your new cat or dog will want to get familiar with the whole home. You should guide them, but let them move at their pace. For example, after the first few days, leave a door open but don't carry them through it. Sit on a floor nearby and wait for them to come to you instead of getting in their way. Before they begin to explore, you should also go through the home looking for any safety risks. Put away breakable objects, hide any electrical wiring, and check for household items and plants that might be dangerous for your pet to eat or touch. You should also make sure to cover up any vents and other potential entrances into your home's ductwork.

Soon after you bring your new pet home, you'll need to bring them to a local veterinary clinic. Parker Animal Clinic in Clarksville, AR, has 20 years of experience promoting pet health in Johnson County. In addition to offering checkups, vaccinations, and treatments for illnesses and injuries, they also offer spay and neuter services for your new pet. You can find discounted medications and specialty pet foods in their online store. Call (479) 754-5656 to make an appointment or receive more information.