Getting A New Pet: What You Need To Do The Week Before

There are few things more exciting than getting a new pet. A new pet can become a new family member and a new friend for life. However, getting a new pet is a big responsibility, it’s not something that should be taken lightly and is a serious commitment. 

Proper research, planning, and preparation is absolutely crucial. It will ensure your new pet’s arrival goes smoothly and that your new friend settles into their new home quickly. If you’ve got a new furry friend on the way and you’re not quite sure how to prepare, we’ve got you covered. Check out this guide with some tips on what to do the week before. 

Get Insurance

This might not be the first thing that comes to mind when preparing for a new pet, but it is undoubtedly one of the most important. Insuring a pet can help cover vet bills should there be any unforeseen illness or accidents in the future. Vet bills can be extremely expensive, so don’t forget to insure your pet to save any financial difficulties further down the line. 

Set Aside A Quiet Space

It doesn’t matter what kind of pet you’re getting or whether they’re a baby or a rescue, coming into a strange new environment can be a stressful time for any animal. This means that it is absolutely vital that you have set aside a quiet, safe space for your new pet to relax in while they take in their new surroundings. 

Ideally, use a spare room away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the house. If you’re in a smaller home and don’t have a spare room, try and identify areas of the house that see the least traffic and build your new friend a cozy nest for them to relax in when they arrive.

Animals can get stressed and frightened by change. It’s important to allow your new pet to get used to things at their own pace. Leave them alone in their quiet space and let them come out by themselves and explore their new home when they feel ready. 

Get Everything You Need

It takes a lot to look after a pet. You’ll need to ensure that you’ve got everything that you’ll need ahead of time. Food and water bowls should be top of the list, get a few different sizes to see which your new pet prefers. Don’t forget food too, ask their previous owner what food they’ve been eating to make them feel more comfortable and at home. 

Your new pet will need a bed as well. This can be an extravagant pet bed from the pet store, or it can be something as simple as a cardboard box with a blanket in it. Whatever you use for their bed, ensure it is big enough for them to comfortably fit inside and that it is free from sharp edges and corners. 

Toys are important too. When your new pet is feeling comfortable and ready to explore, playing together with toys is one of the most effective ways to bond with your new friend and start forming a close relationship. 

While getting a new pet is incredibly exciting, it’s also a serious decision that should never be taken lightly. Ensure you are properly prepared at least a week before your new friend arrives to make their transition to a new home as easy as possible. Get pet insurance, find a quiet space for them to relax in, and get all the bowls, food, and toys that they’ll need. 

By Olivia White