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A pet will be a lifelong companion. You want to take the appropriate measures to get things started off on the right foot. Here are some of the steps that you should take after you bring your new pet home from the shelter.

Schedule a Vet Visit

A checkup is in order to ensure that your new pet is healthy. Many shelters offer you the opportunity to take your pet to the vet for free within the first few days. Take advantage of this offer so that you can ensure the health of your pet. This is especially important if you have other pets in your household. You don’t want to introduce something that will make everyone sick. It will also help to establish a baseline for your new pet.

Check for Pest Infestations

Checking for fleas and ticks on your new pet is relatively simple. For severe infestations, you will most likely notice small black dots crawling around on them. Simply comb through your pet’s fur using a special grooming comb. If you see a problem, you can treat your pet using a flea and tick treatment. Ticks will need to be removed by your vet. Some of the flea eggs may have been deposited in your home. Look into using a pest company like Fowler Pest Control to ensure that you’ve rid your home of the infestation.

Create a Safe Environment

Pet proof your home as quickly as possible. You may even want to take this step before you bring home your new pet. This process is fairly similar to steps that should be taken when childproofing your home. Make sure that cords and breakables are out of reach. Consider the height at which your new pet will be able to jump up onto things. Create a safe place for your new pet to acclimate to your home. This may include a crate or putting them in a safe room.

Introduce Other Pets Gradually

One of the hardest parts of bringing in a new pet is introducing them to the rest of the family. Your other pets will likely feel a little bit jealous. Everyone will need some time in order to get acquainted with each other. Keep your pets segregated for at least a week or two. Allow them to smell each other in a safe and contained manner. Once this time period has passed, allow them to get to know each under your supervision.

The excitement of a new pet shouldn’t blind you to the challenges that you’ll face. Use these tips to get you started on your pet endeavor.