How to Introduce a New Pet Into Your Home

Adopting a new pet is one of the most exciting life events – for both you, your family, and your new furry friend. No matter how excited you both may be, it’s important to stay calm and collected and have a plan for how you’re going to introduce your new pet to his or her new home and family. The first few days with your new pet are essential to ensuring they fit in and will feel happy and safe in their new home.

5 Tips for Introducing a New Pet Into Your Household

11. Be Prepared

Before you bring home a new pet, make sure you have everything you need as far as pet food, supplies, bedding, and toys go. You won’t want to have to make any last-minute trips to the store because you should stay with your new pet during this exceptionally important time to ensure first impressions go well.

2. Create a Safe, Dedicated Space

Don’t immediately give a new pet the run of the house. Instead, keep them confined to a single room or area of your home to help them feel more safe and secure while they begin to settle in.

3. Introduce Other Pets Gradually

Introduce other pets very slowly. First, let your pets sniff each other under the door. Next, introduce them using a secure separation like a screen door or baby gate. When you feel like they’ve become comfortable, supervise a face-to-face introduction, allowing them to sniff each other and set boundaries.

4. Set Ground Rules for Children

This is especially important if your new pet is your child’s first pet. Teach them to let the new pet come to them and how to be gentle.

5. Take Some Time Off

When bringing home a new pet, it’s best if you can stay home with them for at least a few days to help them get settled in.

Establish Care With a Local Veterinarian

When you adopt a new pet, one of the first things you do should be to establish veterinary care with a wellness and preventative care appointment. Our veterinarians at Capital Home Veterinary Care simplify veterinary care for your pets by bringing our mobile clinic to your doorstep.

So, while you settle in with your new buddy, we welcome you to schedule a time for a house call veterinary appointment in Richmond.