What you need to know about your new pet

So you got a new furry family member!

All animals need to be fully vaccinated, no matter the age. Young animals get a series of vaccines and then a one year booster. Please follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for vaccines. It just might save your pet’s life. And as much as you might want to take your new puppy on a walk or to the dog park, do not take puppies anywhere until they are fully vaccinated, except your veterinarian’s office.

Pets new to your household will need to be slowly introduced to any current pets, whether they be cats, dogs or a happy mix of both. And no unsupervised play time until they are all comfortable with each other. Never let a new pet loose to explore when you first bring them home if you have other pets.

Dogs and Puppies

One of the biggest training priorities will be house training and teaching your new pooch to let you know when they need to go outside and tend to their potty business. Crate training is an excellent way to help with this training task. Lots of people use potty bells at the door and teach their dogs to ring the bells when they need to go out. Find what works for you and your home, but do not allow “accidents” to become a part of your dog’s routine – the longer this goes on, the harder it will be to break. Dogs love their crates. Make the crate comfortable and safe for them. Feed new puppies/dogs in their crates (supervised). Teach your new canine friend basic commands like sit, stay, come. From day one, discourage jumping on you and nipping/biting…and chewing the furniture! Again, find what works for you and your puppy but yelling is not the answer. Positive reinforcement goes a long way towards raising a happy and confident dog. While we are on the topic of positive reinforcement, use treats that are safe for your pup to eat and please, no rawhides and no bones/toys that can become choking hazards or get stuck on their tongues or mouths. To quote the commercial, “We know a thing or two because we’ve seen a thing or two.” Once vaccinated, begin leash training your puppy for walks, let them socialize with other people and their pets.

Cats and Kittens

Allow new cats and kittens to first decompress in a small area of your home, sniff the new smells, meet new animal friends under the door. Make sure they have a size appropriate litter box (and being in a smaller room will make litter box training easier), safe litter for their age, food and water, toys and a snuggly bed. Play time is so important for cats of all ages and is a great way to bond with them.

Don’t forget, we are always here for you and your pets if you need us.