10 Things First Time Pet Owners Need To Know

It can be quite exciting to become a pet owner for the first time. It is the start of an adventure that includes care, companionship, and love. If you are thinking of getting a pet, there are a few things you need to know. But one should not rush into adopting a new pet without making sure that you will able to provide what the animal needs to live a happy life when you bring it home.

Choose a pet that will fit your lifestyle. Remember they need to be exercised, fed and groomed too. Always consider your own physical activity and the size of your living space. Mismatched owner and pet circumstances can lead to a troubled household. Do your research before you buy and adopt so that you can be sure to handle all the obligations that come with your new pet.  It is also important that you keep them healthy so they have many happy years with you and your family.

Seek a veterinarian

Your new pet will need a veterinarian who will help look out for their overall health. But not everyone has the time to put their own health needs first, including their beloved pets.  In this fast-paced world, telemedicine has become a reliable option. Online veterinarian centers can provide you a veterinarian who can give a quick assessment of your pet’s health, their nutrition, and get a prescription ordered with ease.

Get supplies

One of the things that first time pet owners need to do is make a list of the essentials they need like water bowls, leash, toys, pee pads, and travel crates. Veterinarian visits are more frequent during the first year of adoption, so a crate or cage is necessary.

Designate a living space

If you are adopting a puppy or a non-house trained adult pet, you’ll need to pet-proof your home. Designate a living space for your new pet so they can get acclimatized to their new home. For the first few months tape loose electrical cords, plants, store toxic chemicals, and breakables far from reach. 

Exercise

Exercising your pet is beneficial for both you and your pet to maintain a healthy weight and not be susceptible to illness. It helps them burn off stored energy and gives you a chance to bond with your special friend.  Pets need to be out in the fresh air and get out of the house to break the monotony. It helps train them on how they react and socialize with other people and animals. Whether it is walking with them, teasing them with their favorite toy, or playing catch with a ball in a park. One thing that first time pet owners need to know is that exercising is one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy.

Prioritize their food

Feeding them healthy quality food shows them that you care.  Provide them with a proper diet that contains all the right nutrients and minerals to keep your pet playful all the time. Be careful in selecting food or treats that are best for the breed of animal that you have in your home. Do not buy cheap alternatives. Seek out specific pet stores and consult with your veterinarian on healthy portion sizes. Although most human foods are not dangerous to pets, some can cause problems. Make sure to read and research before deciding to share your table scraps that could lead to severe allergic reactions.

Maintain a regular schedule

Keeping a regular schedule is one of the best things you can do for your pet as a first time pet owners. Your pet will know when it needs to eat, get some exercise and go to sleep. This helps manage their temperament and will lead to a better relationship.

Grooming

Clipping their nails will prevent problems with walking and scratching you when they shower you with affection. Also, make sure to keep their teeth healthy by brushing. Bathing reduces itchiness and unwanted odors. Brushing an animal’s coat can minimize hair loss.

Go for vaccinations and regular check-ups

One thing first time pet owners might not know is if they should get their pets vaccinated. There’s nothing worse than having your pet rushed to a hospital for life-threatening infection or allergy that could have been prevented by a simple vaccine. Vaccinations vary on the size and breed of your pet. This means that each pet has varying amounts of shots it needs throughout its life. Consult your vet about the necessary shots your pet needs. While you are at the vet’s office, use it as an opportunity for a quick check-up, because early detection of an illness saves lives. 

There are homeopathic remedies that work if you’d like to opt for a more natural way of keeping your pet healthy. But always proceed with caution after consulting with a veterinarian.

Clean their environment

Keep their sleeping and living space clean to prevent any germs from spreading around your house. Pets are more prone to infections if their environment is dirty and unkempt. Be aware of the cleaning products you use and make sure they are not harmful to you and your pet.

Don’t leave them alone

If you need to be away for work or an emergency, leave your pet with someone who loves animals and can take responsibility while you are gone to feed and care for it.

Any pet in a new living situation can be uneasy in the beginning. They can be fearful of certain noises or objects. The best way is to be calm. If you show your pet that you are tense, then it will pick up on that feeling. Let them see what is going on around the house. Isolating them in a cordoned area will make them more tense and anxious. Don’t be afraid to shower them with treats at first in exchange good behavior.

Remember that pets rely on you to live. Have patience when disciplining your pet. Being forceful and harsh will just lead them to snarl and biting, which can be avoided. Understand their habits and personalities. Give them love, show that you care and you will be amply rewarded with a loyal companion.