Bringing home a new pet is very exciting for the whole family. Getting a new cat or dog is about more than just the squeaky toys and treats, we want to make sure that we create an environment that allows for a smooth transition into their new home! Follow these tips to help your new pet adjust!

Plan for their arrival 
The day you bring your new pet home, make sure you are there for the entire day. They may be shy at first, but being there when they decide to explore is a great way to build trust with your new pet! You can also try keeping them in a quiet and secluded part of your house to prevent them from feeling overwhelmed. This room should have food, water, lots of toys, and access to somewhere to go to the bathroom. This is especially helpful if you have other pets living in your house.

Create a comfortable environment
It’s important that you create a calm environment for your new pet to come home to. You can do this by reducing loud noises that could cause stress, like loud music or TV. When you first get a new pet, people might be excited to meet them, but this could be overwhelming. Try to limit the amount of people in the house at least until your new pet feels comfortable in their new home. 

Keep a routine
Your pet will have to learn where their food, water, and other necessities are. When you first bring them home, show them where their food and water will be. Keep it in the same spot and feed them at the same time every day to reduce their stress in a new environment. Cats especially are creatures of habit, so starting a solid routine will ensure they are well adjusted.

Try to bond
A great way to bond with your new pet is to play with them! Some animals might be shy at first, but offering them toys and treats is a great way to make them feel at home. Allowing your pet to get familiar with your scent is another way to bond. Provide blankets, pillows, or even clothes of the people who live in the house to allow your pet to get used to the scent. Old smells can also be comforting to them. If your pet came with some toys or a blanket from the shelter or breeder, keep those to help them feel more comfortable in their new space!

Create a pet first aid kit
Accidents can happen, so we should always be prepared! Keeping a kit of emergency items in your house is necessary. You should always keep some bandages, tweezers, gauze pads, and HoneyCure on hand! You want to have the tools to help your pet in case of any burns, cuts, scrapes, bites, or hot spots! Always keep the contact information of your pet’s veterinarian either in your phone, in the first aid kit, or posted somewhere in your house. 

Be patient with a new pet, it’s all about learning! Chances are your dog or cat might need some time before they feel comfortable around your family. Owning a pet is a big responsibility, so reach out to friends and family for some advice! Once they are all settled in, their personality will start to shine through and you will have a loving new companion!

1. “How to Make Your New Dog Feel Comfortable in Your Home.” The Humane Society of the United States, www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-make-your-new-dog-feel-comfortable-your-home. Accessed 13 Mar. 2024.

2. Jshannon. “Tips for Bringing Home a New Pet.” The Pet Doctor, 26 May 2022, www.lakewoodpetdoctor.com/blog/tips-for-bringing-home-a-new-pet/.