Photo by Josh Sorenson on Unsplash
Bringing home your new furry friend for the first time is exciting and at the same time very overwhelming. A new dog or cat requires a lot of preparation and equipment. First-time pet owners may need a little extra help getting their new family members adjusted but it’s all part of the process. This pet parent checklist includes to-dos to pet-proof your home, first-day shopping essentials, and routine care to raise a happy and healthy dog or cat. Before you know it, your pet will feel right at home.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Before bringing your pup or kitten home, make sure you pet-proof your home and yard to create a space that is safe for them to roam. Even if you don’t intend for them to adventure into certain areas of your house, it’s better to be prepared. For both puppies and dogs, chewing can insue so pick up any of your valuables, shoes, cords and fabric items that might be enticing. For kittens and cats, protect your items from scratches and move anything that can be knocked over by a fearless climber.
Go Shopping for the Essentials
Once your home is prepped, it’s time to go shopping for all of those pet parent must-haves. You may know about buying food and water bowls, but don’t forget the potty waste bags or litter box scoop. Here are some of the essentials you’ll need when bringing your dog or cat home:
Dogs:
- Bed
- Crate
- Food
- Treats
- Bowls for food and water
- Potty pads (for puppies) if needed
- Waste disposal bags
- Toys
- Collar
- Leash
- Harness
- ID tag
Cats:
- Bed
- Food
- Treats
- Carrier
- Bowls for food and water
- Scratching post
- Litter
- Litter box and scoop
- Toys
- Collar
- ID tag
These items can quickly add up so make sure to monitor your spending since pet ownership can carry a hefty price tag. The investment is worth it!
Raise a Happy Pet
It may take a lot of time, patience and training, but soon your pup or kitten will fit right into your family. Their unique personalities and companionship will reward all of your hard work in raising them. Take your pet for regular vet visits and give them preventive care to keep them pest-free and healthy. Spending time with your pet is the best way to bond and build that unbreakable relationship.
