Shelters to the Rescue

New adopters are always excited to bring a new furry friend into their home, which is exactly what shelters want. Adopters that take an interest in their pets and find joy in adding them to their family is an enriching experience for the family and the pet. However, first-time pet owners can often underestimate the amount of care and knowledge needed to be a good owner. Here is a list of some common mistakes first-time pet owners make and how you can avoid them:

They assume pets are okay with more alone time than they really are.

Newly found pet owners will operate under the fact that cats are independent animals. This is true, however, cats are not content with isolation. They like to interact with their owners and feel loved.

Dogs especially do not like to be left alone for a long period of time. It is important to spend a good amount of time playing with them, exercising them, and using positive reinforcement for good behavior. This does not mean that you need to spend every minute of your day being active with your dog. They enjoy simply being around you and being able to create a stronger bond. If you do have to be away from them for long periods of time, it might be worth it for your dog’s sake to check out a dog walking service, or asking a friend/neighbor to check-in on them.

They fail to prepare their homes properly.

Cats value their privacy, and do not like to be disturbed when use the litter box or sleeping. Setting up a litter box in an area of your house with little activity will give them peace of mind. Placing a cat condo or giving your cats access to high vantage points will also keep them content. Cats like to look out windows and stay away from the reach of chaos, and these options will help them do that.

Dogs need an area that they can claim as their own. Looking into using a crate or just a dog bed, will help them establish a safe space. When your dog picks this area, it should be understood by everyone in the house that when the dog is there, he/she is not to be disturbed. Pestering the dog while in his/her safe space will force an uneasiness.

They are not calm and patient with trouble behavior.

Cats are skittish and can take a while to warm up to their new family. When there is a chaotic environment, cats will run and hide for hours. Creating a calm environment will make the cat feel more at home.

Dogs do not respond well to negative reinforcement, or aggressive behavior. Using techniques like this will teach your dog fear, and could cause them to lash out. You will never form a true bond with your dog, if this is the type of behavior you use. To create a calm environment and strong bond, it is important to use positive reinforcement and a relaxed tone.

They neglect one of their pet’s basic needs.

Most people keep track of the basic needs for pets: food, water, and petting. The needs people most commonly forget is exercise and socialization. These two factors keep dogs and cats happy and healthy.

Cats will choose when they want to socialize, and their only form of exercise is playing (unless you can get them to go for walks). Using simple cat toys, or even a laser pointer, will keep them happy

Dogs thrive on exercise and socializing. Taking your dog on a walk for at least 30 minutes will benefit them immensely. Engaging in playtime is not only healthy for them, but healthy for your relationship. Try taking your dog to a dog park, or anywhere they can interact with another dog. Improper behavior could become an issue if your dog is not properly socialized with other dogs.