Every pet owner has feelings of both excitement and nervousness when they bring their new pet home for the first time – this is natural, as you want the animal to be comfortable, safe and happy in your care. The best way to ensure they settle in easily is to be prepared, so we have made a list of our advice on preparing your home for a new pet, so that you can welcome your new best friend without any worries.
- Choose a pet-friendly fence
One of the main things you need to consider when preparing your property is the fence – is yours sturdy and gap-free? If not, you may need to invest in a new pet-friendly fence that will ensure your new best friend will be safe and won’t wander off.
Make sure you take into consideration the type of pet you’d like before choosing the fence as well. If your new pet is a small dog or perhaps even a rabbit, you will need to check there aren’t any spaces in panels.For big dogs it will need to be a tall, strong fence., but avoid fences that your pet could climb, such as chain link. Instead, pick a fence with a flat surface like a closeboard wooden fence.
- Make the house safe for pets
Just like baby-proofing for bringing a new child home, you need to pet-proof your house to ensure your new furry friend will be safe in its new home. Remove all sharp objects, unsafe plants, or poisonous substances that they could ingest – such as cleaning liquids, and put medications, tools, and electronic cords out of reach.
Also, make sure your rubbish bin has a secure latch, close the toilet lid, and block access to small spaces behind fridges and cabinets where they could get stuck. It is a good idea to get in the habit of closing windows and doors as well, as cats especially can easily escape through one if it is left ajar.
- Set up your pet’s space
An important aspect of preparing your home is organising a designated spot for your pet’s bed and personal space. They will enjoy having a private space to escape to and rest, and somewhere they can feel comforted and safe. This will also be where you put a crate or bed for your new pet when they first arrive – resist the urge to have them sleep in the bed with you! Be sure to make the space cosy and suitable by choosing a quiet area of your home, and providing a variety of toys, a bed that’s the perfect size for the type of animal, and some fresh water.
- Buy pet supplies
In order to be ready for your new pet, you need to make sure you have all the relevant supplies, so you can dedicate the majority of time to looking after them when they arrive. Go to the shop and stock up on collars and leads (more than one as they tend to get chewed), scratching posts and litter trays if your pet is a cat, and purchase the same food that your pet has been eating – you can transition them onto something better later on.
Be sure to purchase a range of toys for them to play with as well – chew toys stop dogs chewing on other things, cats enjoy balls of yarn, and both will love having a selection of squeaky toys. Rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters also like to have chewable items in their living space to keep their teeth sharp and trimmed.
If you are looking to prepare your property for your new pet, then Harrow Fencing Supplies has a wide range of fencing to make your home safe and secure.
We have been established since 1960, and cater to customers across London, Harrow and Hillingdon – contact us to find out more.
