Getting a new pet is an exciting but sometimes daunting moment. Pets are new family members and they bring a whole range of responsibilities, lifestyle changes and even costs.
#1 Pet-proof your home
Regardless of the type of pet you’re bringing home, you will have to make some changes to your living space. This is especially pertinent if your new companion is a more active animal like a cat or a dog, but even pets like birds, gerbils or hamsters will require some changes. If the pet will be spending any time roaming freely, then you must make safety adjustments to your home.
Wires are a big area of concern. Pets (especially rabbits that like to chew) will happily gnaw through power cables, potentially electrocuting themselves in the process and certainly interrupting your power supply! Protect power cables by blocking access, concealing them behind furniture or using ties to raise them high off the floor. Sharp edges on tables or counters should be covered, move breakable objects out of the way of wagging tails or eager paws, and ensure that your trash can has a firmly closing lid.
#2 Think about vet bills
No matter how healthy your animal appears, vet bills will always be a factor. De-worming treatments, microchipping, vaccination, even routine health checks: they all add up. Your first port of call is to find a trustworthy vet. Do your research and look for veterinary practices like easyvet.com that have strong infrastructure and a nationwide presence. Choosing a respected, big-name vet is the best way to ensure your animal’s wellbeing.
Next comes the hard part: money. There are lots of ways to cover your pet's vet bills, and these will become even more important as the animal ages. Many people simply choose to set aside a certain amount of money per month for veterinary costs, although this doesn’t always cover sudden or unexpectedly large bills. Pet insurance is another option. By paying a small premium each month you can proceed with peace of mind.
#3 Stock up on essential supplies
Make a list of important supplies before you bring your pet home. This means that you won’t have to suddenly rush to the supermarket when you’ve forgotten something, leaving the pet on its own for an extended period of time. The list will differ between pets but food, bedding, a water bowl and toys are good places to start. Pets adapt best when they’re introduced to a ready made environment, so get everything in place before you bring them home.
Depending on where you’re getting the pet from, you should be able to consult with a vet, pet store owner or shelter worker. Be exhaustive and remember that this is the time to get everything right. The first 24 hours with your pet are crucial as you integrate them into your home. There will likely be stress on both sides, but having all the necessary supplies in place cuts down on any unneeded additional strife.
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