The First Night with Your New Pet
Furry friends become family quick, but that first night can be terrifying for an animal. Animals don’t understand anything other than “I’m not where I’ve been. Where am I? What’s that smell? And, who are these people?”
I once brought two new puppies home the same day and let me tell you: it’s hard work. It is worth it though. Here are a few tips that I’ve learned from years as a pet owner to help you, and your new buddy, acclimate to life together.
Prepare ahead of time. Find out what food they have been eating and make sure to have it on hand.This/tag helps explain it more. Buy a crate if you are getting a puppy, or other dog that is not yet house trained. Make sure it is in an area of the home that is quiet but still accessible. Go ahead and have some toys and treats on hand to coax you pet into a trusting relationship.
Bring them early in the day. Try and make sure you have several hours to establish a bond with your new animal before turning all the lights out and leaving them on their own for eight hours and let them explore the new surroundings in depth, inside and outdoors. Even if you don’t plan on letting the rule the roost immediately, if they have a sense of where they are they may be less likely to whine the whole night.
And speaking of whining the whole night…They may do just that. Be sympathetic and try and remember that they have just been taken away from everything they know.
After a few days and nights you new pet will learn to trust you and you will form a bond that last a lifetime.