You've been thinking about getting your own fur baby for months, years even and finally made the big decision to do it—we’re so excited for you.
We got intel from a bunch of experts at Animates from across NZ, they answered your first-timer questions so you can put your best paw forward. You've got so many precious moments to look forward to as a pet parent, so let us take care of the admin with this essential guide.
How Do I Find The Right Food And Treats For My Pet?
It's a big question. Trish from the team in Silverdale always starts by asking what your pet's breed is, their age and if they have any health issues. When choosing food, it's often about eliminating brands by asking questions until you find the correct one that is best suited. For example, is your pet young, adult or senior? Are they overweight? Do they have dental issues, skin issues or allergies? The same questions go for treats, occupier and training treats. As you get to know your pet it gets easier to choose as you learn their likes and dislikes too.
What’s The Best Way To Toilet Train My Pet?
It’s really important to have a consistent routine, start with smaller enclosed areas and have the correct products so you’re prepared for mistakes. All pets require slightly different setups and so do different property types, so it’s always best to speak to an Animates team member for tailored support and advice says Trish.
How Do I Get My Pet Confident And Comfortable Being Home Alone?
Izzy from the team in Kilbirnie says positive reinforcement and baby steps are a must! It helps to have some time with them to build trust when you first adopt. Once you’ve bonded with your pet, you can take baby steps of leaving them alone in a safe place (like a crate or room) for short spans of time. Try not to make a big deal about leaving. Staying calm and positively reinforcing any good behaviour as soon as it happens is a great step towards success.
What’s The Best Way To Groom And Keep My Pet Looking Good?
Depending on the breed of your pet, there are different grooming requirements says Johann from the team in Westagte. One of the most important things to do is introduce grooming (whether at home or at a professional groomer) to your pets at a very young age. Touching the ears, the paws, and the tail will make it easier when it comes to grooming and nail clipping. Animates have a wide variety of brushes, combs, and clippers as well as shampoo, conditioners and spritzers to make sure your pet is well cared for when it comes to grooming. For long-haired breeds and double coats, we always suggest a professional groomer too.
How Often Should I Flea And Worm My Pet?
Jacob from the team in Porirua recommends monthly treatments unless stated otherwise. To make everything easier, get treatments that do two-in-one, and start treatment on the first of every month for easy reminders. Treatment should be done all year round as fleas are still present during the colder seasons.
How Do I Train Good Behaviours In My Pet?
The best thing you can do is start early with behaviour training says Aneta from the Animates support office, this avoids them developing any 'bad' habits. It’s a great idea to expose your pet to new noises, smells and people in the early months as this will help build confidence. You can advocate for your pet if they are afraid when people come over and are loud, it’s totally okay for you to ask your guests to please quiet down to allow your pet to relax. First interactions should be a choice and not forced. For example, if your pet is forced into someone's lap for a cuddle, they will run away and potentially scratch or bite—this then creates a negative association. Keep new meetings short and always have lots of treats on hand.
What Should I Do To Make My New Pet As Comfortable As Possible?
Izzy from the team in Kilbirnie says it’s important to give your pet their own safe space. Whether that’s a crate, a room, a hutch or a pen, all pets need a “bedroom” just like us. Expressing trust through safe spaces and positive reinforcement builds that trust they need to break out of their shell and become their goofy fun selves! Make sure you provide plenty of stimulation, lots of toys that are rotated weekly, new smells and lots of scritches when they want them!
Getting a new pet is so rewarding and life-changing—you’re getting a guaranteed best friend and partner in crime. If you need any more tips and advice, pop into an Animates store and the team will be able to help welcome your furry friend home with ease.
Editor’s note: this article was produced in partnership with Animates. Thank you for supporting the partners who make Urban List possible. To read our editorial policy, click here.
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