bringing home a new pet

Think about what supplies you will need to make your new pet feel at home. Dogs and cats both need bedding, food and water, bowls, and collars. Your dog will need a leash. Adding a cat means adding a litter box and litter. Veterinarians recommend at least one box for every cat in the house (and often say one additional box is a good idea.) Think about toys for both cats and dogs. Having activities will help distract and entertain them while they are assimilating to their new environments.

Crating your new pet is the best way to get him home safely. Once in the home, leave the crate in an accessible area. It serves as an animals “private space” where he can get away from other pets and people. If you are adopting a puppy you’ll want to baby proof the home—much like you would for a toddler. Curiosity can kill a pup or severely injure him, so look for anything that he might be able to chew on, pull off, or knock over.

Initial Health Checks
The Nebraska Humane Society recommends that after adopting an animal from the shelter you set up a veterinary visit within three business days. This is important! At that visit your pet will need a general health check, rabies vaccinations, heartworm preventative and other inoculations. Your veterinarian can explain all shots and medications required by law, and also treatments that can help prevent health problems. He or she will advise you on care and feeding and answer any specific questions you may have about your new pet. Many area veterinarians offer to waive their office fee on the first visit of a newly adopted animal. When making your appointment, ask if the vet participates in the waiver program.

Introducing Your New Pet to Other Family Members
Not all dogs like other dogs and some can be downright predatory with cats! If you have a resident dog we ask you to bring him or her to the shelter to meet potential adoption candidates before your final adoption papers are signed. But even when the first meeting goes well, it can take time for a new pet to fit in. Click on the articles to the left for specifics on introducing your new pet to resident family members.