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Welcoming a new pet into the family is a joyful occasion, but a little preparation will go a long way toward making the transition smooth for everyone. We’re sharing expert advice on what to expect and tips for preparing your place for your new pet.
Set up a safe space for your new pet. “Many companion animals love to chew and can put themselves at risk of injury or illness by chewing items like soft plastics, power cords and toxic plants,” says RSPCA senior scientific officer Sarah Zito.
Move things out of harm’s way and consider what your pet will have access to in your home. You may need to do some rearranging until they've grown up or settled in.
The idea of pets can be exciting, but it pays to take your time and go slowly during those crucial early days. “Ideally, bring your pet home when you’ll be there for at least a few days,” says Sarah. “Introduce them carefully and gradually to the family, but don’t overwhelm them with loud noise and activities. Give them space and privacy if they seem stressed or overwhelmed.”
Line up a vet visit ASAP, and not just for vaccinations – your vet is an invaluable source of information on caring for your pet. They will be able to offer expert advice and guidance on how to look after your animal’s health, diet, exercise and more.
Dogs need controlled socialisation at any early age, so encouraging safe interaction and engagement within different environments is key. “Between three and 14 weeks of age is what’s called the ‘critical socialisation period’,” says Sarah.
She suggests exposing your pup to as many sights, sounds, smells, people and other animals as possible, rewarding them when they respond positively.
Tip: Puppies can’t be exposed to unvaccinated animals – or places unvaccinated animals might have been – until they’ve had all their routine shots.
Take time to get your canine companion used to the lead and collar or harness, and take them on slow, short walks. Young puppies may seem like they have boundless energy, but they tire quickly, and overexercising at this age can affect bone and muscle development.
Provide cat toys, plus a cat tower (a scratching post, climbing levels and hideaway combo), to help encourage natural kitten behaviours like playing, climbing and scratching.
For a well-adjusted cat, minimise fear and give them areas they can retreat to and feel secure enough to sleep. “Give cats hiding places and elevated spaces, where they can perch and observe or hide,” says Sarah.
If you have more than one cat at home, Sarah advises providing separate food, water, sleep, toileting and play areas, as well as individual toys. “This gives each cat free access to the resources they need, with less chance of competition or tension between them,” she says.
“Rabbits are a social species and should be kept with at least one other compatible rabbit,” advises Sarah.
However, you must have your bunnies desexed so they don’t multiply, she adds. Your vet can provide more advice on this.
A happy bunny tip? Link your animal hutch to a secure run to let your bunnies exercise freely for a few hours a day.
“A rabbit hutch should only be a temporary enclosure and safe place to sleep,” says Sarah.
When it comes to food, rabbits are grazers. Give them a constant supply of grass or grass hay, rabbit-safe fruit and veg, and a few rabbit pellets.
Check out our range of indoor pet supplies.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
