Tips when Adopting a New Pet

 If you are looking to add a furry family member please consider first searching your local shelters and rescues.  There are so many highly adoptable animals that need homes!  Here are some good tips to keep in mind when preparing for the arrival of your new friend and to help ease the transition once they are home.
1. Make sure you have all of the things you need at home and ready so that your new friend feels comfortable.  This would include collar, leash, bowls, food, a bed and/or crate, and toys.
2. When you first go to visit the shelter, realize that a lot of the dogs that you see will be scared and may not necessarily “show well”.  If you find a dog that seems to fit what you are looking for, make sure you spend some time with them outside of their kennel- maybe in a play yard-where they can feel more comfortable and can likely show you how friendly they are and give you a better idea of how they may be at home.  Don’t pass up your perfect pet just because they seem shy or scared!
3. Once you get your new pet home, the key is giving them time! They will likely be a little scared, unsure or stressed at first. There are a lot of things for them to get used to in a new home and it will take time for them to get settled.
4. Often times the best way to bond with your new dog is to take them for a nice long walk.  It is a good bonding time because you will be learning how well he does on leash and what his interests are, and he will be learning how to look to you for guidance and learn to listen to your commands.
5. If you already have dogs and cats at home and are adding a new one to the group, again please remember that time is key!  By bringing a new dog into your home, the dynamics will change.  They may not be best of friends at the start and they may have some scuffles while the hierarchy of their “pack” is settled.   It is very similar for cats.  Cats are very particular and are easily upset by changes in their daily routine.  Cats will take their time and there may be a lot of hissing or growling at first.  They may not ever be the best of friends but will usually learn to quietly live with one another and find peace.
For more information, please call Cinema Veterinary Centre at 661-253-9300.