Pets may not need as many things as humans do, but they still require a few essentials of their own. Depending on your pet, this may include items like a bed, food and water bowls, a litter box, toys, and a kennel or enclosure, if needed. Make sure to have these items ready in advance to help your pet feel comfortable as soon as it arrives.

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Another important consideration is whether your home is a safe environment for your new pet or if it needs some adjustments. Check if your windows, balconies, or fences require nets to prevent your pet from escaping. Also, examine toilet seats, electrical cords and outlets, houseplants, garbage cans, and fragile items—all these things should be examined from the perspective of a pet owner.

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While puppies and kittens are especially playful and love to fool around, it’s important to let them gain confidence at their own pace. Allow them to sniff around and explore so they can find safe spaces and feel more at ease.

This doesn’t mean you should ignore them, but rather resist the temptation to overwhelm them with attention or surround them with a crowd of family and friends. There will be plenty of time for that, once the pet is relaxed.

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Young puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable to infectious diseases because their immune systems are not yet fully developed. That’s why it’s essential to take your new pets to the veterinarian and ensure they receive their vaccinations on time.

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Before bringing your new pet home, make sure to consult with a veterinarian regarding the best type of food, and check with the breeder or rescue center to find out what your pet has been eating. If you want to change their diet, do so gradually—otherwise, a sudden change could make them sick.

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If your new pet is a dog, consistency and patience are paramount. Establish a regular potty schedule, take your puppy out frequently, and reward them for using the designated area. If your new pet is a cat, place a litter box in a quiet, easily accessible spot and use a clumping litter that’s gentle on their paws.

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Pets can turn almost anything into a toy, but both cats and dogs will especially enjoy age- and size-appropriate pet toys. Be mindful of objects or toys that might seem interesting or edible to your pet, as they could be swallowed and cause serious problems.

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If your new pet already has a name, make sure they have a sturdy collar ID with their name and your phone number. Pets can get lost in various situations, and a collar ID is essential to ensure anyone who finds your furry friend can contact you.

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If your new pet is going to live in a house where there are other people besides yourself, make sure the rest of the household knows which behaviors to reward and which to ignore. Consistency in training is crucial to ensure your pet becomes polite and obedient.

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Maybe your new pet isn’t a young pup or kitten. If your new friend is an older dog or cat, try to learn as much as possible about any training or health issues they might have, and be proactive by making a plan to address them. Don’t try to tackle everything at once—gradually introduce new experiences in controlled circumstances.

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A bored pet can quickly become a mischievous one. A healthy dog should be taken for a walk at least 20–30 minutes a day. Cats naturally love to jump, climb, and scratch. If your cat is indoor-only, provide one or more cat trees to climb and scratching posts. Wand toys or laser pointers are great for stimulating cats and getting them moving.

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Routines are beneficial for all animals, and pets are no exception. Schedules give them a sense of security and stability. You can promote this by establishing regular feeding times, walk schedules, and play sessions.

Remember what we said about consistency? Regular routines help reduce anxiety and prevent behavioral issues. For puppies, maintaining a routine is especially important as it aids in house training and social development.

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