Adopting a new pet marks the beginning of an exciting journey filled with love and happiness.
However, the first few days can be extremely challenging for the furry friend you bring home. Your pet will need time to settle down in his new surroundings and adapt to the new environment.
This blog post will discuss some essential tips to help you help your newly adopted pet adjust to a new home and tips to pet-proof your home.
Tips to Help Your Newly Adopted Pet Adjust to a New Home
Adopting a new pet can be both exciting and overwhelming. With these essential tips, you can help your newly adopted pet adjust to its new home and make the transition easier for them.
Keep a Routine, Even When It’s Hard
Animals crave routine and structure, especially when adjusting to a new home.
If possible, stick to their existing routine during the first few days. Feed them at the same time, take them on walks at the same time, and maintain their sleeping schedule.
It will help them feel more comfortable and secure in their new home.
Help Them Let Out Energy
Pets, especially dogs and puppies, need regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically fit.
Lack of exercise can result in anxiety, restlessness and destructive behaviour.
Make sure your pet is getting enough exercise, playing fetch, or taking them on walks. It will help them release pent-up energy and feel more relaxed and happy.
Have Pet Essentials Ready
Make sure to have all the pet essentials ready before you bring your furry friend home.
It includes all the necessary items like food, treats, water bowl, toys, leash, etc. All these items will make the transition easier and more comfortable for your pet.
Set Up Your Pet’s Space Right Away
When bringing your pet home, create a space that belongs to them.
Setting up a comfortable bed, some toys and treats, and a place where they can retreat to will help your pet feel more comfortable and secure.
This space will also help your pet understand that he has a designated spot in the house and is a part of the family.
Give Lots of Attention
It’s important to show your pet lots of attention, especially during the first few days.
Make sure to interact with them regularly by taking them for walks, playing with them, or simply cuddling with them. It will help your pet understand they are loved and not alone in their new home.
Stay Home as Much as You Can the First Few Days
It’s a good idea to stay home with your pet during the first few days to help them settle in.
It will allow them to adapt to new surroundings and become familiar with the family. Staying home will help your pet feel more comfortable and secure, making the transition easier.
Be Patient
It’s important to be patient and not expect too much from them immediately; try to stay positive during this transition period. With patience and love, you can help your pet create a happy, safe home with you as an integral part of your family.
How To Pet-Proof Your House to Keep Them Safe
Pets are a great addition to any family. They bring cheer, love, and companionship into our homes. However, as much as we love them, we must pet-proof our house to keep them safe.
Get Down Low
To pet-proof your house, you need to look at it from a pet’s point of view.
You’ll be surprised at the things you never noticed before. Check for potential dangers like dangling cords, loose wires, and other items your pet can chew on.
Secure Doors & Windows
As much as we love the fresh air coming through open doors and windows, it is essential to secure them to avoid accidents.
Install high-quality screen doors, screens, and grills to keep your pets from pushing through open doors or jumping out of windows.
Secure all openings and ensure all doors have latches and locks your pets can’t operate.
Tidy Up Your Space
Pets love to play, and their adventures can sometimes lead to accidents. Keep your space tidy by organising your shelves and storing things securely.
Move anything that can be easily knocked over or broken by your pet.
Keep your kitchen and bathroom doors closed, or install child-proof latches to keep your pets from getting into trouble.
Keep your dirty laundry in a hamper, and remove any toxic plants.
Keep Them Comfortable
Create a cosy spot for your pet to rest and relax. Give them a comfortable bed, enough drinking water, and healthy food.
Keep their litter boxes, food, and water bowls clean and easily accessible.
Ensure you have enough toys to keep them entertained when you are not around, and they won’t be tempted to chew on things they shouldn’t.
Be Prepared
Pet parenting comes with eventualities. It’s best to be prepared for it.
Always have a first aid kit for your pets. Keep their vet’s and emergency vet’s numbers on speed dial.
Ensure they always wear identification tags and have microchips if they wander off.
How to Manage Your Dog’s Behaviour Towards a Newly Adopted Pet
Bringing a new pet into the family can be stressful and tricky. By following these helpful tips, you can ensure that your dog will adjust easily to the new pet, and soon they will become inseparable friends.
Introduce the Pets Slowly and Carefully
The first interaction between your dog and the new pet can significantly impact their future relationship.
Introduce the pets in a neutral place, such as a park, to avoid territorial issues in your home.
Leash your dog and let them sniff the new pet, but keep control of its movements to avoid any aggressive behaviour. Repeat this process for a few days before bringing the new pet home.
Create Separate Spaces
When pets first come together, territorial issues can arise.
Ensure each pet has a personal space to retreat whenever they feel uncomfortable with the other.
This area should have bedding, water, and toys, providing them privacy until they are comfortable enough to mingle.
Maintain Consistent Training and Discipline
The new pet will need to be trained to follow the rules of the house.
Involve your dog in this process by providing consistent reinforcement when the new pet is well-behaved.
You need to ensure that the new pet is aware of the house rules and they follow them. Thus, pets of all ages and behaviours can interact peacefully.
Give Plenty of Love and Attention
Finally, ensure your dog feels loved and included in the process. They may feel neglected, especially when the new pet gets more attention or training.
Dedicate daily time to playing with your dog, and maintain their usual routine to avoid insecurity.
Keeping Your Newly Adopted Pet Safe and Happy at Home with Matraville Veterinary Practice
It is exciting to finally bring your new pet home and see them explore the space. However, providing safety measures for your pet and creating a bond between you two in the comfort of your home is also important.
Moreover, understand that accidents can happen along the way and have important resources like Matraville Veterinary Practice nearby that can help should it come down to a medical emergency or provide additional tips to better care for your newly adopted pet.
We understand just how important these little critters are and know that the best thing we can do is provide access to essential care. So if you’re looking for advice or more insight into catering to your newly adopted pet’s needs, don’t hesitate to reach out: we’ll be here every step of the way.
For more tips or to book an appointment, contact Matraville Veterinary Practice today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Adjust to a New Home and Environment?
It can take a few weeks for a new pet to fully adjust to its surroundings. Every dog is different; some may need more time to settle in than others.
Should I Baby My New Pet During the Adjustment Period?
It’s important to balance giving your new pet lots of love and attention and allowing them to adjust to their new environment independently. Give them plenty of space to explore, get used to their new house, and spend quality time with them.
How Can I Make Sure My New Pet Feels Like a Part of the Family?
Treat your new pet like a family member from day one. It means providing them with a comfortable bed, plenty of toys to play with, and ensuring they have plenty of opportunities to socialise with the other family members.
How Can Dog Parents Help Their Tired Dog Adjust to a New Routine of Being Home All Day?
To help your tired dog adjust to a new routine of being home all day, you and your dog must establish a daily schedule with regular exercise and rest periods. Try taking your dog for a walk or playing outside in the morning, followed by some quiet time during the middle of the day. By incorporating exercise and rest into your dog’s life, you and your dog will have a happier and healthier relationship.