The importance of preparing your home for the arrival of a new pet
Welcoming a new pet into your home is an emotional and meaningful moment. However, this transition requires essential preparation to ensure the pet’s physical and emotional well-being. As a veterinarian, I remind pet owners that the first days at home play a crucial role in the animal’s long-term health, safety and behavior.
Responsible choice: selecting a breeder or source with proper care standards
Your new pet should come from a responsible breeder, shelter or supplier that follows good animal-care practices, including:
- Updated preventive health care.
- Clean, enriched and well-maintained environments.
- Appropriate early socialization.
- Age-appropriate nutrition.
- Health records and documentation.
Responsible sources ensure vaccination and deworming are current and provide guidance on upcoming doses, helping prevent infectious and parasitic diseases.
Preparing your home for a new family member
Creating a safe and organized environment is essential for a smooth and healthy adaptation.
1. Safety first
- Remove swallowable small items.
- Secure electrical cords.
- Store medicine and chemicals out of reach.
- Avoid toxic plants.
- Keep trash cans closed.
2. Sleeping area
- Quiet environment.
- Comfortable bedding.
- Away from drafts.
- Away from high-traffic areas.
3. Safe hydration: clean water and a dry-fur drinking solution
Clean, fresh water is essential every day, but the way it is offered plays a major role in skin and coat health.
Preferably, use a drinking system that keeps the pet’s fur from getting wet. Wet or constantly damp fur creates a perfect environment for fungal and bacterial growth.
This increases the risk of:
- Hotspots and moist dermatitis.
- Skin infections.
- Persistent odor.
- Rapidly worsening wounds.
Pets often drag or dip their fur into common water bowls, leading to constant moisture around the face, chest and paws. A drinking system designed to keep the fur dry significantly reduces dermatological problems.
The water and feeding area must also:
- Be insect-free.
- Be protected from direct sunlight.
- Be separate from elimination areas.
- Use stable and cleanable bowls.
4. Hygiene and elimination areas
Cats:
- Litter boxes in quiet locations.
- Frequent cleaning.
- Proper box size.
Dogs:
- Fixed pee pads.
- Frequent replacement.
- Multiple elimination areas at first, if needed.
5. Emotional adaptation and enrichment
- Provide appropriate toys.
- Allow safe exploration.
- Avoid excessive visitors initially.
- Create a predictable routine.
6. First veterinary check-up
- Full health evaluation.
- Vaccination schedule review.
- Nutritional guidance.
- Behavior and preventive-care instructions.
Conclusion
Preparing your home and providing safe, fresh water in a drinking system that prevents wet fur are essential steps to protect your pet from skin problems and ensure healthy adaptation. With a clean, structured and safe environment, your new pet will settle in comfortably and build a lasting bond with your family.