This is Part 3 of a 4-part series. This follows on from:

Part 1: Things to consider before buying a pet. Here we delved into some ideas on how to choose the right pet for you and your family.

Part 2: Where can you get you furry friend from? Here we discussed the commitment involved to bring an animal into your family and also some helpful tips on acquiring your furry friend from a reputable animal rescue, shelter or pet store.

By now your excitement will start to build as you anticipate your new fur-baby’s arrival. Keep in mind that the key to success is through preparation, this is to ensure a safe and easy transition into your home and lifestyle for your new family member.

Here are some helpful preparation tips:

1. Pet proof inside your home:

Make sure that cords are secure and that any houseplants you have won’t be a health hazard to your new pet. Position baby gates across stairways, hallways and doorways to keep pets from entering unsafe or forbidden parts of your home. With puppies and kittens it’s also a good idea to store toys, shoes, bins, and laundry baskets out of harm’s way. If you have any pest traps, poisons or repellents, make sure those are also out of reach.

2. Pet proof your yard:

Fence off areas like ponds or gardens that contain poisonous plants. Remove sharp objects and garden ornaments that may fall and cause injury. Examine the fence for any openings or weak areas to prevent a pet’s escape. (Visit my blog here for a list of common plants toxic to dogs and cats...)

3. Equipment:

Purchase the equipment needed to house, contain, feed, groom and amuse your new furry or scaly friend.

Dogs will need: a place to sleep with soft bedding, bowls for food and water, an adjustable collar onto which tags will be attached (not a choke chain), a 4 to 6-foot leash, safe toys, grooming equipment (brush &/or comb) and piddle pads for house training.

Cats will need: a litter box, litter and scoop, bowls for food and water, a crate/carrier to safely transport them, grooming equipment (brush &/or comb), toys, and scratching posts.

Reptiles, Fish and Amphibians may need: heaters and thermometers and covers for their enclosures. Small mammals and birds will need: an easy-to-clean spacious cage or enclosure, bedding/nesting materials, detachable food and water dispensers, and safe toys for chewing and enrichment.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Some of these pets may require additional equipment to ensure proper care is met, whether it be from salt or heated water to different feeding methods. Make sure you seek advice from a professional for further information about their needs.

4. Deciding where your pet equipment is located:

Place birdcages, tanks, and aquariums on easy-to-clean surfaces in a draft-free quiet part of the house.

Cats/dogs have a comfortable, supportive bed or crate pad that allows them to completely stretch out. It’s important to place it in a set sleeping space. This will provide consistency for your pet. Finding the right place to put those pet beds is important somewhere quiet and secluded to sleep. bedrooms are a great place.

Litter boxes for your pet should not be placed too close to their designated feeding and sleeping areas.

Food requirements: Check with the breeder, shelter or pet store to find out which brand of food your pet is already accustomed to. Keeping your pet’s kibble consistent can prevent digestive discomfort and ease a frightening transition.

5. Create a schedule:

Have a plan for toilet training and a schedule for feeding, playing, napping and bedtime. Animals thrive and feel more secure when they have a daily routine to follow. Take your dog out of the same door and to the same toilet area to help create consistency. Puppies will need to be walked frequently: every time after waking up, 15 to 20 minutes after eating, after playing and before bedtime. IMPORTANT NOTE: Puppies should only be taken out to public areas once they have received their 10-week vaccination. This is due to viruses such as Parvo, Distemper, Hepatitis or Canine Cough which could be fatal to young pups. For further information about this speak to your Veterinary Healthcare Professional.

6. Vet visit:

Schedule an appointment with a veterinarian within 48-72 hours of your pet’s arrival even if your fur-baby is not due for inoculations. This examination is an opportunity for the vet to become acquainted with your pet and may reveal undetected health issues. Bring any health records that were provided by the shelter, rescue group, breeder or pet store. Write a list of question you may have and discuss them with your Vet. For example: essential Vaccinations and when will they require a booster? potential Parasite(s) and a prevention plan? How often should your pet be examined by a Veterinarian? Are they the right weight? When should they be spayed/neutered? When should they be microchipped? And many more….

While no amount of preparation will toilet-train your fur-baby’s or save every pair of shoes from chew-toy status, there are ways to ensure that the transition goes smoothly, for both you and your new pet