Your Guide to Giving a Pet a Home

During the COVID-19 Pandemic


With so many animals in shelters who are in need of loving homes, you might be thinking about welcoming a rescue pet into your household during this pandemic. If you’re ready to adopt a new furry friend, these tips from New Leash on Life include everything from prepping your home to finding the right pet. 


Preparing Your Home

Make sure that every room in your home will be safe and secure for your animal companion.

 

  • Pick out a cozy dog bed so your new pet can get comfortable when they arrive.
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  • As a suggestion, install a fence around your yard. The cost will vary depending on your location, materials used, and the size of area to be fenced.
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  • Remove any houseplants that could be toxic for dogs if ingested. These include Aloe plants, lilies and live eucalyptus.

 

Keep in mind that if you’re planning to sell your house in the near future, you need to be cognizant of potential buyers. Be sure to pick up after your pet inside and outside the house, as well as cleaning areas frequented by your pet. 


Finding Your New Friend

How can you ensure that you bring home the perfect pet from the shelter? These resources will help you decide:

 

  • Research different dog breeds to understand which temperament will be the best fit for your household.
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  • Prepare the appropriate paperwork before you head to the shelter. Depending on the location, you may need to provide proof of residence, as well as agree to having your pet checked regularly by a veterinarian, among other stipulations.
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  • There are signs to look out for when choosing the right rescue pet. According to dogtime.com, when you’re at the shelter, if you see a dog sitting quietly and watching the world, chances are you’ve found a calm animal. If a dog is pacing and whining, he’s likely worried and stressed, which isn’t unusual in such a setting, but know that he may take extra time to settle in at home.

Keeping Your Pet Healthy

We’re all thinking about our health, so go the extra mile for your pet’s well-being, too.

 

  • Spend a little time each day training your pet in a stress-free environment.
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  • Sign up for a dog food delivery service to get healthy dog food dropped off at your home.
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  • Consult with a veterinarian if you’re considering whether to choose helpful supplements to make sure your dog gets all the nutrients they need. Supplements are used with some dogs to treat issues including mobility, digestion, allergies, and their skin and coat.
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  • Visit Pet News Daily for more health and diet tips for your new pet. 


Pandemic Precautions

Concerned about caring for your pet during the pandemic? These tips will help you both stay safe:

 

  • Need a pet sitter? PetBacker suggests following safety guidelines including wearing masks and gloves during the meet and greet session with the sitter to ensure everyone is protected from transmission.
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  • Learn how to take hygiene precautions while walking your dog. The CDC recommends walking dogs on a leash, maintaining at least six feet from other people and animals, as well as not letting pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.

 

Adopting a pet can be very rewarding. And if you’ve been spending lots of time at home, this pandemic presents the perfect opportunity to give an animal in need a wonderful forever home.

 

New Leash on Life provides love, care, and hope to animals in need. Learn more about what we do or how you can volunteer.