Become a Great Pet Owner

If you’re considering getting a pet for the first time, you’re in for a big decision. Dogs and cats both require a lot of responsibility, because they are reliant on you for their health and well-being. However, owning a pet is also very rewarding, and most owners will tell you that the unconditional love and companionship you experience with a pet are well worth any money and effort it requires. If you decide to bring home a new pet, these four tips will help you prepare to be a great owner from day one.

Choose Wisely

When you bring your new pet home, you’re essentially adding a family member to your household. This is why it’s so important that you pick a type of pet that fits into your lifestyle. For instance, because they are notorious for being independent, getting a cat can be great for someone who is away from home often. Dogs, on the other hand, need a little more time and attention to truly thrive.

Another factor to consider is the size of your living space. Ideally, both you and your pet will be able to move around the home comfortably, so if you live in a small apartment, an Irish wolfhound or mastiff may not be the best pick. Also, think about the size of your yard. A highly energetic pet, like a border collie or golden retriever, will need space to burn off energy for the day.

Get Ready

Once you’ve chosen a pet, it’s time to prepare your home for its arrival. A good place to start is pet-proofing. Go through your home and make sure anything that could be a choking hazard is off the floor and any other surfaces your pet can access. Move items like cleaning chemicals, medications, and electrical cords out of reach, as these can pose a serious threat to your pet’s health. If you have a family, make sure everyone thoroughly understands their responsibilities surrounding your furry bundle of joy, including feeding, pottying, and walking.

Cleaning is also a big part of owning a pet. Not only can you expect the occasional mess, especially in the first few weeks, but you will notice pet dander and fur in corners of your home you didn’t know existed. Make sure you have the right tools to make cleaning as efficient as possible. If you’re on a budget, be sure to at least stock up on every pet parent’s go-to cleaner: vinegar. This household staple neutralizes the ammonia scent left behind by urine, but it won’t make your carpet fade. Another budget-friendly tool for owners of furry critters is the squeegee, which quickly removes pet hair from upholstery and carpeting. If you have a little more in your cleanup budget, a high-quality pet vacuum is a great investment.

Ease the Transition

Your new companion will need to acclimate to their new surroundings when you bring them home. While this is a process that can take time, you can help them adjust. For instance, designate a living area for your pet that gives them space but isn’t isolated from the rest of the family. Also, if they have belongings from their past life, like a bed, a blanket, or toys, the familiarity of those items can bring them comfort. Moreover, try to establish a routine early on, because routine helps pets settle into new environments.

Start Training Immediately

Another thing you should do early on is training. Whether or not they already know basic commands, start teaching your pet the way your household does things. Training your pet will not only help keep them safe from harm, but it will also play a big role in forming a special bond with them. When your pet learns that you are calm and consistent, they will begin to trust you much more easily.

Getting a pet is one of the best decisions you can make. Enhance the experience for you both by carefully picking what type of pet you get, preparing your home, helping your pet adjust to their new environment, and training them from day one.

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