Adopting a pet is going to be an exciting event for both of you! But all of your best intentions can lead to disaster if you’re not prepared for the unexpected—just one of the good reasons not to adopt impulsively. Long before you bring your pet home, there are several things you should take into consideration.
Following these home preparation tips before you adopt a pet can make the adjustment period go smoothly for everyone.
Tools of the Trade
It doesn’t matter what type of pet you adopt — they all require some supplies and tools for their basic daily needs. Once you’ve made the choice of what type of pet you want to adopt, make a list of all the supplies you will need to purchase. Items to consider include food and water containers, a cage for small animals or a crate for larger pets, bedding, grooming supplies, leash and collar, toys and treats, and, of course, food.
When choosing a cage or crate, keep in mind that this space is intended to be a safe place, similar to the cave or den your new pet’s wild cousins would return to for rest. Cat carriers tend to come in standard sizes but there is a huge variety in crate sizes for dogs. Resist the temptation to purchase your Chihuahua a palatial pooch-pad better suited to a Labrador Retriever. The ideal crate will allow your dog to lie down comfortably, turn around, and stand with his or her head lowered—aim for something that is a few inches longer and slightly shorter than your dog is, or will be when full grown. Dress it up with some comfy bedding and you're all set!
Also, choose your new pet's food carefully. Some animals are picky about what they eat so you may need to try a few things first. However, once you have settled on a healthy, balanced feeding schedule, stick to it. Changing your pet's regular kibble or canned food can lead to stomach upset and other unpleasant side effects. Frequently altering your pet's diet is not recommended!
Rules and Training
Before you adopt a pet, decide in advance what the rules will be and discuss those rules with your family. It is important to set firm ground rules to ensure your new pet will be less confused about what is expected. Setting house rules and following them is also an important part of training. Don’t get sidetracked by sad eyes, whining, meowing, or other heart-squeezing behaviour—stick to your guns and you’ll both be happier for it!
Once you have decided what type of pet you will be adopting, learn what is involved with that animal’s training. Dogs require significantly more training than most other pets—you may want to explore training programs and book lessons in advance. Everyone in the home should have some basic understanding of training so the process works when your new pet comes home.
Pet-Proofing
Preparing your home for you newly adopted pet requires a good look at the interior of your home. Consider what could happen should your new pet be allowed to roam freely. Failure to pre-plan could result in the ruin of furniture, carpets, hardwood floors, and other areas of your home. Pet-proofing your home is much like child-proofing. If you take these precautions now, you may save yourself from heartache and huge vet bills in the future.
Furniture: If you don’t want your newly adopted pet destroying your furniture, begin training as soon as possible. Provide an area with a comfortable bed just for your pet to relax and sleep. Consider using old bed sheets or tablecloths to cover car interiors and furniture during the learning period. If you adopt a cat, invest in a scratcher--your furniture will thank you for it.- Floors: It is difficult to predict how your new pet will react to your home and pets without prior housetraining are going to have accidents. You may want to partition off an uncarpeted area of your home to allow your new pet to acclimate. If you adopt a puppy, be prepared to spend some quality time training and cleaning up accidents!
- Windows: Open windows are an easy escape route so remember to have all windows closed, even if they are screened. If you adopt a cat that has already spent time outdoors, be aware that your new cat might still be curious about ‘the wild’. Recently adopted pets can be prime candidates for escape before they become comfortable in their new surroundings.
- Décor: If you have a precious object in your home that you cannot replace, you're best to put the item well out of reach. Cords from window blinds and electronics should be secured out of reach to prevent potential choking hazards and tripping.
- Cabinets: All cabinets that can be reached should be secured, especially if that cabinet contains household chemicals, poisons and/or medications.
Room to Roam
All pets need exercise—some more than others. For pets that will be enjoying the great outdoors, prepare your yard as you would the inside of your home. Keep toxic products such as anti-freeze and fertilizer well out of reach, secure garden tools and other items, and set ground rules.
Stick to these simple tips and your pet adoption experience is bound to be a memorable one for all the right reasons!
