New Pet? Here’s How to Introduce Them to Your Home
Bringing a new pet home is an exciting time, and your new pet’s first experiences in their new surroundings can set the stage for their well-being going forward.
In this blog, our caring team at Marketplace Veterinary Hospital helps pet parents understand the nuances of introducing a new pet in their lives, whether you’re introducing pets to each other, or just hoping to make your new pet feel right at home.
Introducing a New Pet to Your Home
Whether you need to know how to introduce a dog to a new home or how to welcome a feline friend, we’ve got you covered. New sights and sounds and smells can be overwhelming for animals, so keep these tips in mind when bringing a new pet home:
- Be patient. All new pets need time to adjust. A little shyness and apprehension is common, especially for cats.
- Don’t force a pet to interact with you. New pets sometimes just want to hide, and that’s OK. Encourage them to come out of the corner by tossing a tasty treat in their direction.
- Speaking of treats … have plenty on hand when bringing a new pet home to build trust.
- Pets feel best when their schedule is consistent. Provide food in the same place at the same time each day. If you welcome a new dog, go for a walk at the same time, and walk the same route.
- Create a quiet space. Give your new pet a place to go that’s just for them with a comfy bed, toys, and water.
- Avoid introducing your pet to too many people in the early days.
New Pet Introduction Tips
When it comes to introducing pets to each other, slow and steady wins the race. Try these tips if you have a multi-pet household:
- Introduce dogs on neutral turf. Choose a nearby park or other neutral site so your current dog doesn’t feel territorial. Always use leashes and harnesses when introducing dogs.
- Keep cat introductions gradual. Put your new cat in a separate room at first, and gradually switch to a baby gate as your cats get used to each other. Give both cats treats so they associate their new relationship with positive things!
- Supervise all introductions. A high-energy puppy can make an older pet feel anxious. Be prepared to separate pets if one seems stressed, or if you see signs of aggression.
More Tips for Bringing a New Pet Home
- Pet-proof your home. Make sure household toxins are out of reach of pets and your trash cans have secure lids.
- Supervise children. Instruct children to be calm around the new pet, and never leave a child and a new pet unsupervised.
- Schedule a veterinary appointment. Your vet will perform a thorough exam, make recommendations on vaccines, spay and neuter surgery (if applicable), and parasite control.
We Look Forward to Meeting Your New Pet!
Please contact us at (916) 939-1705 to schedule a checkup for your new pet or if you’d like more new pet introduction tips.