The ride home was a blur. We had just adopted our dog, Miss Piggy, and we were taking her home. She had been adopted and returned multiple times before we got her, so I don’t think the ride was special to her. I remember stopping at a local pet store to get food after we got her (the shelter we adopted her from gave out vouchers for a free small bag). We took her inside, and she was drawn to this squeaky cow toy. Despite its rather steep price tag, we bought it for her. This toy is the only one that she hasn’t destroyed yet, although it has needed a few stitches here and there. The remaining day was simply a blend of emotions and feelings. We were about to get married, struggling financially, and had chosen to get a dog instead of going on a honeymoon. Part of me was thrilled to have her, and part of me questioned if it was a good idea. But we had promised we wouldn’t take her back. We were determined to break her cycle. It was a few days after we got her that she seemed to realize she was really home and wasn’t going back, and the way she cuddled up to us made it all worth it.
Adopting a pet can be stressful and exciting, and it’s natural to feel a blend of euphoria and doubt. Just as I did, you may be struggling with knowing what to do and how to act around your new pet. Consider this your friendly guide on what to expect and how to survive the first day after adopting a pet.
Before Getting Your New Pet
Make sure your home is ready for a new pet before you go and pick them up. Dog, cat, or bunny proof your home so that it’s nice and safe for your new friend. Establishing which rooms your pet won’t be allowed in will help you know which rooms to make pet safe. Pick anything up off the floor, put things away, and make sure there’s not a bunch of exposed cords everywhere. Consider getting a trashcan with a lid so that your new friend isn’t drawn to it and ends up making a mess. If you have backpacks, purses, or other bags, consider putting them on a shelf or hanging them up. Make sure medications are put away securely, since you don’t want to start off with an expensive vet visit. If you have houseplants, check whether they are poisonous to your new pet or not. If they are, put them in a room your pet isn’t going to be allowed in, or put them high away where they can’t reach. And don’t forget to gather all your cleaners and other toxic materials into a secure location.
Take the day off of work if you can. The last thing you want is to get a new pet and immediately leave them alone and unsupervised. Many pets will want their space, but still crave being near you. And being at work makes it that much harder to give them the comfort of knowing someone is there. This also allows you to have a day to process having a pet, and allows you to process your emotions about it. Don’t schedule other activities either. For the first 24 hours, it’s important that you’re home as your pet adjusts to his or her surroundings.
Buy just the basics. You don’t need any fancy clothes for your new pet just yet. For dogs, get a buckle collar, six foot leash, stainless steel food and water dishes, food, and a bed. Toys, treats, gates, and a crate are also good things to have. For cats, you’ll need a carrier to take them home and to the vet in, a litter box, food and water bowls, food, toys like a cat scratcher or cat tree, a bed, treats, and a collar. For rabbits, you’ll need a pen, food and water bowls, food, treats, a carrier, litter box and litter, and hay and fresh leafy greens like turnip greens or cilantro. Other good things to have for your new pet is a pet first aid kit and grooming and cleaning supplies. When buying food, try to stick with what they are currently eating.
The First Day
Don’t use baby talk or too many treats. Use a soft, confident voice to make your pet feel at ease. And avoid giving them an upset tummy with too many treats. Their regular food and water will be fine for the first few days. Avoid crowding them as well, and only interact with them when they come up to you.
Consider running a bath for a dog. There’s a certain smell that shelters have. If your dog is comfortable with or even likes baths, consider giving them one to remove the smell of the shelter. If your dog is skittish, a bath can wait a few days. Cats and bunnies will clean themselves, and only require baths in special situations. Getting adopted is not one of those special situations.
Be selective when introducing friends. Pick one or two pet-savvy friends to meet him on the first day, and limit additional distractions. Wait to host a big welcome party until a few weeks have passed. You’ll avoid overwhelming your pet this way and allow them to truly get to calm down.
Don’t expect to get a full night’s sleep. Your mind will be racing, and maybe your heart too. Sleepless nights are common when adopting a new friend. Whether your pet gets to sleep on the bed or if they get to sleep in pet bed, crate, or cage, you will be wondering if they’re okay, or if they need anything. That’s normal, and isn’t a cause for alarm.
Remember that your pet will take weeks or even months to decompress and start acting like themselves. It takes time for them to get used to the new environment and situation they’re in. Their true personalities will shine through when they finally calm down and feel safe around you. And take it as a win, regardless of what personality they show you. You made them feel safe and loved.
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