Integrating Your New Puppy/Kitten Into Your Home
Congratulations on getting your new puppy or kitten!
Most people bring their new addition home, around the age of 7 – 8 weeks.
This is when socializing and integrating your new pet into your home properly is very important. The first task is getting them familiarized with their new surroundings.
Let them sniff and explore their new home. Afterwards, if you already have a previous pet[s] at home, allow them to meet. Make sure your previous pet[s] gets lots of attention and support during this time. Jealousy and distrust can arise if all the attentiveness is directed more towards the new pet. Long term effects of improper initial encounters between them can leave you living in a home where your pets have to be in separate living quarters.
Get the new pet used to sounds and any day to day tasks and outings you plan on doing with it.
Like driving in the car with you, the sounds of your lawn mower, vacuum, dishwasher, kids playing, loud movies, etc. All the while give them praise and love. Treats can be given as rewards to allow them to adjust easier.
Puppy classes are a great way to build confidence. Get your puppy and kitten handled as much as possible, not only by yourself but others as well allowing them to trust people outside of your immediate family which will help with trips to your veterinarian, kennel, dog park etc. Finally, and most importantly, have fun! Enjoy! And always call your veterinarian with any questions or concerns.
We at Dolphin Veterinary Services are happy and eager to answer and help in any way we can!