Over 65% of US households have a pet. If you’ve decided to welcome a furry friend to your family, you may be wondering what you need to provide the perfect home for your new addition. In this guide, we’ll discuss the steps to take to make sure you’re ready for life as a pet owner. 

If you’re preparing to get your first pet, you may have been researching what you need to buy. There are hundreds of articles and lists online but often, they contain items that you might not necessarily need to invest in at the beginning. The contents of your shopping list will depend heavily on the type of pet. If you’re bringing a puppy home, for example, you’ll need food and water bowls, a harness or lead and collar, a comfy, cozy bed, puppy food and treats bags to take out with you to clean up after your dog, and plenty of toys to keep your new canine companion entertained. For a cat, the list is very similar but you’ll also need to invest in litter trays, cat litter, a shovel, and a scratch post. It’s a great idea to ask friends, neighbors, or relatives who have pets for ideas and recommendations. While it can be tempting to go crazy and spoil your new family member, it’s important to remember that they don’t need every item in the store. 

One of the most important considerations for prospective dog owners is training. Training dogs from an early age is hugely beneficial. Classes enable dogs to learn good habits, encourage safe socialization and reduce the risk of biting and chewing. You can choose from regular short sessions or look into taking your dog to a boarding school. If you’ve never had a dog before, going to training classes is an excellent way to learn how to issue commands and build a positive relationship with your pup and it’s a brilliant way to meet fellow dog owners. You can also ask for advice if you have any specific issues or concerns, for example, your puppy won’t stop chewing at home or they tend to get aggressive when you go walking and encounter other dogs. 

Finding a vet

Most pets require regular veterinary care, and it’s helpful to find a vet before you bring your new buddy home. Ask pet owners you know for recommendations, and read reviews and testimonials online. You can speak to vets or have a look around different clinics before you make a decision, and you can also ask for more information about prices and services. Your pet will need to go to the vet for vaccinations and they may also need treatments to prevent fleas and worms, for example. 

If you have a cat or a dog, it’s beneficial to consider investing in insurance. Veterinary bills can be very expensive, and they often come out of the blue as a result of accidents and unexpected illnesses and injuries. Insurance can help to lower or cover the cost of treatment and rehabilitation. Before you buy a policy for your pet, research options online and compare prices. You can enter your details and requirements and set filters to find the best policies based on your individual requirements.

Are you looking forward to welcoming a new furry friend to the family? If so, take these steps to make sure you’re ready to become a pet owner.