by guest writer Jessica Brody www.ourbestfriends.pet
Your First Pet: Considerations You Can Make
Finding your first pet should take some careful consideration. Many families choose an animal based mostly on looks, and while everyone wants a cute animal to love and show off, it’s imperative that you think first about whether you’ll be a good fit together. The size of your home and yard, your family’s schedule, the number of people in your family, and your finances are all things you’ll need to consider when you’re looking for a pet, and that’s just to start with. Animals need lots of love and attention, so it’s also a good idea to ensure you’ll be able to meet his needs for the next several years to come — not just the next few months.
Start by doing some research on different breeds. Look at how big they get, what their dietary needs are, whether they’re prone to health issues, and how well they do with young children (if you have kids). You’ll also want to look up information on how best to train your pet and how to help prevent anxiety issues if he’s a rescue or a puppy.
Keep reading for great tips on how to figure out which pet is best for you and your family.
Choose the Right Breed
It’s crucial to do some research online before choosing your pet since every animal is different. While you won’t know for sure whether he’s a good fit for you until you meet, there are certain things you can ascertain beforehand that will help you make the right choice. For instance, many cats are content to spend some time by themselves and aren’t as needy as dogs. Some breeds are more prone to health issues, which can become costly over time. Look up some info on the type of animal you’re interested in before making a decision.
Clean Your Floors
If the former owners of your home had pets, there could still be odors or dander lingering in the carpets, which can upset new animals and even lead to accidents. Cleaning your floors before bringing home a new animal will help you avoid any messes and will give your family a fresh start with your pet. Look online for the best cleaning service, keeping in mind that you may need to request the job in advance depending on how busy they are. If you have heavy pieces of furniture that can’t be moved, just make a note of it in your initial request. Keep in mind that homeowners in Virginia Beach, Virginia, spend about $172 on carpet cleaning on average.
Pet-Proof
Pet-proofing your home is essential, even for older animals. When they’re in a new environment, they tend to be more curious and will explore and check out every nook and cranny, especially if animals have lived in the home before. Look for loose threads on the rug that could be swallowed, window-blind cords that could choke, toxic plants, and exposed electrical cords that could be chewed on, and remove or alter these things so they won’t present any danger.
Take the Time to Train
Training a pet can take a lot of time and patience, but it’s an important step in pet ownership. It’s advisable to take a few days off, if possible, when your pet comes home so you can spend some quality time with him and the two of you can get used to the new schedule. Play games with him, go for walks, and allow him to explore your home and neighborhood. Look online for some simple cues you can teach your pet. Training takes a lot of work and patience, and sometimes your dog might not be as responsive to you as you’d like. If you need additional help, seek a trainer that is certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) and uses reward-based training methods for best results.
Ready to start your training journey?