From picking out soft, squeaky toys to making your first veterinarian appointment, there are a few things more exciting than bringing home a new pet. It’s heartwarming to watch a new puppy wag around and explore your home, and it’s important for your pet to discover his or her new territory. A transition like this can be both exciting and scary. Knowing what to expect can help ease the stress for everyone.
Be Proactive. Before your new friend is introduced into your home, ensure you have supplies already in place. Building crates and making loud noises can add stress to the situation. You’ll want to have your home “pet-proofed” as well, which means removing any objects that could be harmful. Try to find a small variety of toys to learn what your pet likes best before spending a lot of money on toys that won’t be played with.
Be Patient. Don’t be alarmed if you notice some slight behavioral changes at first. Sometimes accidents may happen more frequently or they may seem afraid and hide for a few days. Remember to give lots of love and have patience. Allow your pet to fully explore and investigate without added pressure.
Be Persistent. Once your furry friend is more familiar with the new home you can begin to work on those behavioral changes. Try not to blame your pet if the training doesn’t seem to be working. Find a method of positive reinforcement that works for both of you and begin implementing it when you see positive actions.
While no two pets are the same, following these guidelines will make the transition easier for both you and your companion. Check out this blog for more easy training tips!
Resources:
http://www.aarp.org/relationships/pets/info-06-2011/pet-moving-tips.html