Starting out on the right paw
You may not have ever thought about it but good behaviour really starts before you decide to get a new pet. It can be easy to rush the process meaning you are not prepared or properly equipped for the new arrival.
Here are some tips to help start you off on the right track:
- Choose a pet appropriate for your lifestyle. We cannot stress this enough. Problem behaviour is generally not as common for pets kept in the right environment. Ask yourself some honest questions such as: Are you home enough to appropriately care for a pet and give them the attention and love they need and deserve? How much exercise will you be able to give a dog and do you have the time to do this? Would a cat be a more suitable choice? And would rehoming a more mature pet be more sensible? Puppies and kittens require lots of time not to mention patience!
- You need to plan! The first few months are critical when starting out. This is a key time to help your pet adjust to your lifestyle and family. Will you have time to put in essential training such as puppy school? Are you and your family going to be able to be consistent with training? Have you got a plan in place for your pet when you go away?
- Are you in a position to care for a pet? Are you going to be able to provide your pet with essential health care, parasite prevention, a premium quality diet and necessary grooming to make their life happy and comfortable?
- If you are getting a puppy or a kitten, check out their relatives. Ask to meet Mum and Dad to see how they interact with other pets and people and try to choose a confident and friendly puppy or kitten if possible.
We are always here to help you and can answer any questions you might have about choosing the right pet for your family, just ask one of our friendly team today.