6 Ways To Prep Your Home for a New Pet’s Arrival
Adopting a pet is a fulfilling moment and rite of passage for most people and families. But it can quickly lead to your demise if you don’t prepare before the big day. Where will your new friend sleep? Is your home safe for them while they adjust to their new surroundings?
Here are six ways to prep your home for a new pet’s arrival.
Give Your Pet Some Personal Space
Your friend is now a part of the family, and as a new member, it would be wise for them to have their own space to kick their paws up and relax. Consider purchasing a comfortable pet bed before their arrival. You’ll also want to consider purchasing a kennel or crate to secure them when you’re not home.
Stock Up on the Essentials
Of course, it would be wise to purchase some pet care basics! If you’re welcoming a cat, you may need scratching posts, a litter box, and litter in your stockpile. Regarding dogs, expect to have extra training pads, collars, and leashes before the big day.
It would also be wise to note that if you’re adopting a pet, purchasing the food they’re used to is the best option to ensure a smoother transition into your home.
Clean and Pet-Proof Your Home
Your space is just as vital as your pet’s space. Now would be the ideal time to clean your home and store your valuables away from your friend’s reach. Consider investing in plastic storage containers of different sizes to keep personal items, domestic products, hazardous ornaments, and other unsafe objects.
Secure door locks and windows to ensure your friend can’t escape through the nearest window while you’re away and block small spaces that could threaten their safety.
Change Your Air Filters
While changing air filters is essential to improving air quality with your pet at home, consider changing them prior. Doing so allows you to check for any HVAC issues before they transform into detrimental problems in the future.
Since pets tend to leave dander and hair around your home, it would help to change air filters every one to three months.
Think of the Play Area
All work and no play can make for a dull time. Animals enjoy their playtime and a play area. Remember that your friend would benefit from a space where they can expend energy and have fun. Don’t forget to stock up on toys!
Expect To Experience an Adjustment Period
Puppies, kittens, and other small animals alone are enough to pull on the heartstrings. Remember that smaller furry friends can have a rougher adjustment period than older pals, so you can expect crying as they adjust to their new home. If this happens, set up a quiet space for them to get comfortable.
Moving is stressful for everyone, especially for your new friend. However, introducing some of these ways to prep your home for a new pet will help mitigate the chances of anxiety and fear during the “Welcome Home” party.