Dogs, and cats especially, are creatures of habit, any minor change in their routine can make them nervous; bringing any animal into your home can be a bit of a shock to them. They need a bit of time to warm up, so give them their own space to begin with. Even just a corner of the room with a toy and their bed will give them a quiet place to observe. They really just need the chance to figure out your schedule.
Dogs can live anywhere from 8-15 years, and cats can live even longer, this furry friend is going to be part of your life for a very long time and a lot of people can’t handle that commitment. If you’re looking to add a furry member to your family it isn’t a decision you should rush into.
Good quality food can be expensive, but it’s worth it in the end! It lowers vet bills from a bad diet (if you ate McDonalds every day, imagine how often you’d be at the doctor) and animals on a good-quality, balanced diet actually use the bathroom less because they absorb most of the food.
Vet visits are another expense animals bring to the table. Whether Fido ran into the street and needs emergency surgery or you just need the next round of shots, vets are not cheap. It’s best to take this into account beforehand so you’re not stuck with a bill you can’t pay.
Whether it’s a puppy/kitten or an older animal, they usually require some sort of at-home training. It may be as simple as correcting behaviors like jumping or whining, but (especially puppies) they may require quite a bit more. Do your own research, training can be a fun family game, or reach out to the animal trainers in your area. There are lots of training tools available for each and every animal.
Speaking of training, a lot of dogs (small or big) require exercise or they may start to act out. So if Fluffy is starting to frustrate you, it may mean it’s time for an extra walk a day or look into dog walkers in your area. Dog parks are also an excellent place for socialization and exercise.
Finally, think about your lifestyle before bringing in a pet. Are you at work 18 hours a day? Your pooch may get a little lonely without you, and may tear up the house in your absence. Expecting or have a new baby at home? A cat of quiet dog may be a better option for you, the last thing you want is Spot waking up the baby at 2 in the morning. Also if you ARE thinking about adding a human baby to your family in the near future, pick a dog that you would be comfortable with around kids (or start desensitizing baby noises now).
Supplies
More often than not, it is in your best interest (and your new furry friend’s interest) to purchase all the necessary supplies before bringing your new pet home. There’s nothing like that last minute scramble to find a good bone before your new friend decides they prefer table legs.
Dogs
- Food/Water Dishes
- Food (kibble is better for most dogs, talk to your vet for recommendations!)
- Treats
- Collar
- 4-6 ft Leash
- Harness/Training Collars
- ID Tag (with your phone number at least)
- Bed
- Poop Bags
- Training Pads (mostly for puppies)
- Nail clippers (Quik stop wouldn’t be a bad idea)
- Shampoo
- Brushes (vary depending on coat types)
- Toothbrush/paste
- Baby Gates (not necessary for every dog)
- TOYS, TOYS and MORE TOYS
Cats
- Food/Water dishes
- Food (cats should have dry/wet food in their diet, talk to your vet!)
- Litter Box and scooper
- Kitty Litter
- Collar/ID tag (better safe than sorry)
- Kennel (for vet visits, etc…)
- Nail clippers
- Toothbrush/paste
- Brush/Comb (vary depending on coat type)
- Toys (and Catnip)
- Scratching Posts
