Welcoming a puppy or kitten home: practical advice before your pet arrives

Questions to ask yourself before you give in

Adopting a puppy or a kitten is an important step that commits you for many years. A good start is important because it conditions the future relationships. Getting off to a good start in life with your puppy or kitten should be considered before the adoption process and therefore before the arrival of the young animal. 

Before giving in, it is important to ask yourself the right questions, without complacency. Will we have the time needed to take care of it, the sufficient budget to deal with routine and unforeseen care, the living conditions adapted to its development... An animal requires a significant and lasting investment from all points of view.

Good reception conditions

In anticipation of his arrival, you will need to do a minimum of shopping (bowl, leash, basket, etc) to welcome him in good conditions.

A puppy or kitten arriving in a new home is naturally lost and anxious. He undergoes a radical change of environment, leaves his mother and, more importantly his siblings, potentially changes his living environment (raising in the countryside and living in the city for example).

All these changes are disturbing and you will have to help him get through this. To do this, you will need to be present and caring, offer sources of heat (possibly through hot water bottles), provide gentle and friendly contact.

Contrary to what we often hear, it is possible to keep your puppy or kitten in his room for the first few nights to reassure him and avoid additional trauma. This practice can help establish a solid bond of attachment with your companion.

To be patient

Both in terms of welcome and attitude, everything must be done to provide a welcoming and securing environment for the newcomer. All potentially aversive acts (grooming, bathing, prolonged isolation, etc) should be postponed.

Better to prevent 

A young animal is a potential explorer and care must therefore be taken toxic products under lock and key. You will also need to be wary of balconies and dangerous places to prevent any accidents.

Source: https://virbac.widen.net/s/t585kjj29b/welcoming-a-puppy-or-a-kitten-in-your-home--practical-tips-before-your-pets-arrival