How to Make New Pets Feel at Home
Adopting a new pet is always an exciting endeavor. Many people feel on top of the world when bringing home a new little fur-baby. However, it can be a complete rollercoaster ride if you aren’t ready for it! But once you bring a pet into your home, there are many things that can be done to help it feel more at ease. Here are some great tips to help ensure your pets are warm, happy, and healthy.
Don’t Bring Your Pet Home when You Are Occupied
To make your new furry friend feel at home, be sure to spend ample time with them in the days following their arrival. The more time you spend helping your pet adjust to its new living quarters, the quicker the transition will be.
Let Them Explore Their Environment
Give your new pooch some time to adjust to their new home before introducing them to other family members. This includes children as well. It’s better to put your new pet in a comfortable spot in the house for a while so they can get used to it, rather than throwing them into the middle of everything right away.
Introduce Pets by Scent
To help pets get along, start by introducing them to each other’s scents. Animals depend mostly on their sense of smell to interpret the world around them. Swap bedding or blankets; or simply place a sock over your hand, rub one pet for several minutes, and then present it to the other pet to sniff.
Control Initial Interactions
When your new pet is introduced to the rest of your household, avoid potentially dangerous situations. Help your pet feel at home by giving them an escape route if they need it. Also, consider keeping dogs on a leash and letting cats run inside an exercise pen when you first bring them home, away from other pets and people.
Do Your Research
After welcoming the new pet home, do your research and be prepared. Visit potential pet sitters in your home so you can evaluate them first-hand. Ask questions to ensure they know your pet’s needs and personality and come up with a list of essentials that the sitter will need while they’re in their care. This will help you avoid last-minute panicky situations.
