Veterinarians share their top 5 tips for adopting a new pet

Bringing home a new dog? Here's what experts recommend!
Animal Shelters Face Overcrowded Conditions Across The Nation
Animal Shelters Face Overcrowded Conditions Across The Nation / Joe Raedle/GettyImages
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Are you thinking of bringing a new pet home? Have you found the perfect furry friend at the shelter that needs a forever home? Then you may be looking for some expert advice on what to do, especially if this is the first time you have rescued a pet.

Even if this not the first time you have adopted a new furry friend, you might still be wondering what veterinarians think are the five most important things to do when bringing home a new pet. Luckily for us, we have the experts from TrustedHousesitters to guide us.

Outside of the "essential" tips from veterinarians, we also have Rebecca MacMillan, who shared "firstly, I would say it is important to manage your expectations. Many owners are very enthusiastic when bringing home their new pet, but it’s important to remember that it can take several weeks, or months, to form a true bond."

Honestly, bringing home a new pet is not for the faint of heart. And even for experienced pet parents, there is always a learning curve. So if we can get expert advice to make things easier, we are here for whatever veterinarians have to say that might make this a more seamless transition. So what do the vets have to say to guide us in adopting a new pet?

5 tips from veterinarians to make bringing home a new pet easier

Make sure you pet-proof your home before bringing your new furry friend into the house

Not only is this step about safety, but it is also for your own peace of mind. If your new pet breaks something priceless, it will likely cause tension and bad feelings that will tarnish the new relationship you are trying to build with them. It will also increase their stress, as they will feel the anxiety and upset that you have over the loss.

Your new pet needs both time and space

Just like we can be overwhelmed in a new environment, dogs and cats can feel the same way. It takes time for a dog to get used to you and believe that they are safe. This can take weeks and even months. In the same vein, the experts suggest the following tip for giving your pet time and space: "Sitting near to your new pet and letting them come to you in their own time is usually the best approach, and talking to them in low, reassuring tones is much better than being over excited, animated, and high-pitched."

Your new pet needs a routine

As soon as you bring your new pet home, they need a routine. That means setting things up immediately for success. Think taking them out to go to the bathroom, feeding them, going on walks and even establishing when it is time for bed. Routines are a must for giving your new pet a chance to thrive in this new environment.

Make sure you are both playing with your new pet and praising them

"MacMillan said owners can gain their pets’ trust with a consistent daily routine of positive interactions. She encourages owners to regularly praise their pets for any correct behavior, continue basic training and regularly petting and grooming their pets if they are comfortable with it." Perhaps unsurprisingly, the idea of play and praise is a sure-fire way of establishing your home as a safe space for your new pet.

"Create a safe environment"

The last tip might seem obvious, but there are a lot of ways to create that environment that might not seem important. Having a bed for them and toys are a great way to establish a safe space for your pet. And of course, a space that is just for them is a wonderful way to allow them to create their own boundaries.

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