Have You Added a New Pet to Your Home?

Mar 26, 2021Unbelievable Pets

Over the last year, pet adoptions have been on the rise partly due to the pandemic and people working from home. For example, one dad adopted a puppy for his two young boys while he worked from home. Some people want more companionship now that they spend more time at home. In any case, it’s been a blessing, particularly for rescues to find homes for rescued animals. For all the new pet owners, here are some tips for what you need:

Establishing Your Pet in Their New Home

If you have recently adopted a new pet or are planning on adopting, here are some basic things to consider:

1. Budget

CNBC reported that dog owners spend up to $1,201 a year on average on their dogs, and cat owners spend up to $687 per year. Here are some items you want to consider:

1. Food
2. Bedding and toys
3. Parasite control
4. Vaccinations
5. Checkups
6. Emergencies

You may want to consider pet insurance. The average pet owner spends yearly is up to $1,201 on a dog and $687 on a cat. That is not considering emergency services should they arise. Here is an article from Healthy Living on “Weighing the Pros and Cons on Pet Insurance.”

2. Scheduling an Appointment with a Veterinarian

If you have adopted a pet that is not spayed or neutered or vaccinated, you will want to schedule this with a vet right away. Since the pandemic, it can take longer than usual to get your pet in for a scheduled appointment. The added time is partially due to the spike in pet ownership. Also, veterinarians are using new safety procedures that affect scheduling appointments. For this reason, it can take weeks to get your pet scheduled.

Caution:

Do not think that your puppy or kitten will not reach sexual maturity because they are still a puppy or kitten. Female puppies can reach sexual maturity as early as six months, depending on size and breed. Male puppies average sexual maturity at 5 months, but their maturity also depends on their size and breed. Most female kittens reach sexual maturity at 6 months. Male kittens reach sexual maturity between six and twelve months.

3. ID your pet.

Sadly, we see notices daily of pet parents looking for lost pets. Perhaps someone accidentally leaves a gate or door opened, and a pet gets out without you knowing it. There is a much higher chance of finding a lost pet if it has been microchipped and is wearing a collar with ID tags.

4. Learn how to groom your pet.

Whether your pet is long, medium, or short hair, they need to be groomed. So, you will need pet grooming combs and brushes. You can find on PETMD.com articles on grooming your dog or cat.

5. Have a carrier on hand for your pet.

Have a carrier on hand for your pet at all times. You will need one to transport your pet to and from the veterinarian. But you also want to have a carrier for your pet in case of an emergency such as one requiring you have to evacuate. If you have a dog too large for a carrier, secure them properly in the car. NEVER travel with your pet in the front seat! Here are safety tips from the ASPCA for traveling in the car with your pet.

Final Words

Getting a new pet that adds love and joy to your home is a wonderful thing. It is even better when you are ready to take on the responsibilities. We at Aspen Veterinary Clinic here in Spring Creek, Nevada hope the above tips help you get started on this new journey with your furry friend. Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Sincerely,
Dr. Kathryn Moriarty

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