Christmas puppies & kittens are so cute & fun! But the process of introducing
a new pet into the household can be more than moms & dads bargain for.
Here are some tips to help you welcome your new little packages into
your home safely.
 Follow the Boy Scout Motto, “Be Prepared” - do your research and
have appropriate bedding, food, toys and leashes before bringing home
your new pet. This will allow you to focus on bonding with your new
pet, rather than scrambling to get them what they need.
If you already have pets in the home, they may not be as excited
as you are about the new addition. Keep the new and established pets
on opposite sides of a closed door. This will allow them to become
familiar with each other’s scents without coming into full contact.
After a few days, introduce them slowly when you are able to supervise.
Keep dogs on a leash to maintain some control until they are comfortable
with each other.
Be aware that both dogs & cats may mark their “territory” if they feel
it’s been intruded upon. If this happens, clean the mess as quickly and
thoroughly as possible to prevent lingering smells that may encourage future soiling.
A little tension may occur, until all the pets establish their position in the
family. Don’t be too alarmed. But do watch for more serious aggression to
avoid injury all around.
Be sure to separate pets when they are left alone until all animals in
the household are adapted to the new situation.
Keep in mind that every new pet brings the potential for
parasites & disease. Young pets may have been too
young to be vaccinated or may not have been tested
for parasites. Be sure to get any/all information about
your new pet’s previous medical history in writing.
Even if you are told your new pet has been vaccinated, most puppies
and kittens need follow-up boosters for full protection against common
diseases. Be sure to schedule a new patient exam with your veterinarian
and have your new pet checked out to protect your pets and your family.
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