Bringing home a new furry family member can be fun and exciting, but a new pet also comes commitment and responsibilities too. Below are a few tips that will be helpful to you, your family and your new adopted pet the first few days after adoption.
Keep a leash on your new pet. Your new pet has not bonded to you yet, so do not trust your new rescue pet off leash outside. Even in a fenced yard, some pets get scared and confused when let outside to potty. If you keep a leash on your new pet for a few days, your pet can easily be lead by you.
Don’t leave your pet unattended. It is best to stay with your pet while he or she is outside in the yard, even in a fenced yard, till he learns he is safe and feels comfortable. Your new pet will appreciate your company and patience.
Plan to spend some time at home until your new pet gets used to the surroundings. For best results, take some time off, or plan adopting your pet on the weekend or at a time when you will be able to stay home for a few days and nights.
Buy identification early. When you bring your pet home from the adoption event or breeder’s home, you will be busy with other responsibilities. Before you bring your new pet home, buy id tags that have your name, address and phone number printed on them. That way, if you get to the adoption event or breeder’s and fall in love with another pet, or your pick has already been taken home, you are still prepared.
Block the get away! Many pets run out an open door. Teach your pet to wait at open doors or make sure to block their getaway.
Keep on schedule. Find out the pet’s daily schedule and stick to it as much as possible. Once your new pet gets settled in, you can slowly change the daily routine to fit yours. But until the new pet is comfortable and shows no sign of confusion, keep everything as much to what he is used to.
If you already have a pet at home, keep both pets leashed. It is easier to let them drag their leashes till you know both pets get along and are safe to be around each other. If the pets do not get along, you have a leash to separate them.
Keep it intimate. Your new pup has plenty of time to meet all your friends, neighbors, relatives and their pets. Let your pet adjust to your lifestyle, your home and you before getting out to events, parties and outings and having invited friends over.
Spay, neuter and microchip! Spaying a female and neutering a male helps keep them from wandering. If your pet does get out, microchipping will help them get home as well as it also proves your ownership.
