A New Family Member

Whether you've recently brought a dog or cat into your home, or are still in the process of choosing one, surely you're hoping for a long and enjoyable relationship with your new friend. To ensure such a relationship, you must considered what your pet's first day in his or her new home will be like, as well as ways to make the transition as easy as possible. As with any new relationship, there is an adjustment period--and possibly some initial problems. The best way to avoid potential problems is to prevent them. Some simple guidelines are:

• Animal Selection. Many problems will be avoided if you choose an animal who will "fit" with your household situation. It's important to consider the animal=s individual needs as well as your own wants. These will vary depending on many factors including species, breed or mix, personality, animals already in the home, and the age of an animal. The younger the animal, the greater the needs. Also, acknowledging that cats and dogs are non-human and that they react and understand in non-human ways is the first step in building a successful relationship. Remember that good, solid relationships take time and mutual respect to develop. Keep in mind that each animal has its own unique personality and will require individualized consideration and problem solving.
• Gradual Introduction to Your Home. All animals can experience stress in the transition to a new home, so it's best not to overwhelm them with too many new sights, sounds, and smells. Remember to introduce the new animal to the rest of the family gradually. It's best not to have too many people around at first. If you cannot isolate the pet for the first couple days, you should at least provide a feeding and sleeping area away from traffic and loud noises. Doing this as well as establishing a consistent schedule for feeding and house-training will give your pet a sense of security.
• Introduction to Other Animals. If you already have a pet in your home, it is best to exercise caution when introducing your new pet to the others. Since animals are territorial, all may feel jealous or threatened. Preferably, the new animal should be brought into the home by a non-household member. Introductions to the resident animal should be slow and gradual; through separate rooms in the case of cats and in a neutral outdoor setting in the case of dogs. Cats may hiss and growl at each other for weeks after being introduced, and they might even have a tussle now and then. In most cases, this is acceptable behavior. Just be aware of injuries. Dogs that are unfamiliar with each other should never be left together alone too soon.
• Children and Animals. Discuss with children in the household the proper way to handle the new pet. Very young animals can easily be injured by the affections of an overzealous youngster. Also, with the excitement of a new companion, children often need to be reminded that they may overwhelm the pet. If the children are not careful, the animal may react instinctively by hiding, urinating, growling, scratching or biting. Let the animal approach the children first. Don't encourage a child to seek out an animal that is hiding. Let the pet come out on his/her own. It's important to never leave a young child alone with any animal.
• Behavior Problems. Even with proper methods of introduction, some animals may exhibit behavior problems such as lapses in house-training, destructiveness, aggression, fearfulness, shyness or hyperactivity. If these problems are allowed to persist, they may become a habit. If you are experiencing difficulties, or need more detailed information, you may contact the animal behavior hotline at The Anti-Cruelty Society or consult your veterinarian. Remember, patience will be required to deal with any of these problems. Once resolved, you and your new companion will be on your way to many happy years together.