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Parenthood PET TIPS

Very few things provide as much comfort as a furry friend, and in selfisolated times, taking in a new pet can bring joy to a home and add routine to the chaos. However, this experience can be as overwhelming as it is exciting if it’s someone’s first time introducing an animal into the household.

The Humane Society of Missouri wants to encourage adoptions by helping make the transition as stress-free as possible for first-time adopters and fosters. Here are the society’s top tips for caring for your first pet: 1. Get the basics. When adopting or fostering, there are a few things owners absolutely need, including a leash, a collar, bedding and food that’s appropriate for the pet. It’s usually a good idea to buy these necessities prior to introducing the pet to its new home. Ensure the bed is big enough and that the food is nutritionally balanced.

2. Create a comfortable environment.

Once introduced to their new home, pets may be anxious, not eat much or have accidents in the house. Some animals will attempt to hide under or behind furniture or choose to stay in a room they find safest. All of this is normal behavior, and owners can help their pets become more comfortable by understanding and showing them how nice their new home is. If owners are having trouble creating a calm and comfortable environment, pheromones and nutritional supplements for pets can be extremely helpful for a new dog or cat. Both are over-the-counter products and can be purchased through the Animal Medical Center of Mid-America’s two clinics for curbside pickup or through the online pharmacy.

3. Don’t hesitate to call the veterinarian.

The Animal Medical Center of Mid-America is an essential service and is still open during this time. If you notice that your new pet isn’t feeling well, if your pet gets injured or if your pet needs vaccinations or heartworm preventives, schedule an appointment at amcma.org. 4. Establish a schedule. Pets become most By Maggie Peters

Pet Boot Camp St. Louis nonprofit animal shelter Gateway Pet Guardians is offering free online obedience training during COVID-19 through its Naughty to Nice K9 Boot Camp. The camp runs for eight weeks, and participants are encouraged to send videos to document their progress. More information can be found at gatewaypets.org.

comfortable if you perform activities around the same time every day. If you have a dog, go for a walk at the same time each day, and signal the activity using a recognizable word or phrase. For cats, announce when it’s feeding time. Pets can recognize short phrases like “Dinner time” or “Time for a walk.” Using simple phrases helps establish a reliable routine that makes pets feel secure. 5. Be patient. It can take animals some time

to adapt to a new environment, and owners shouldn’t expect an instant connection with a new pet. It’s common for their personality to change as they adapt to a new home, which means they might act differently from how they did in a shelter. Even new noises, such as a vacuum or blender, could be disturbing during this time. Be patient and they’ll warm up to your family in no time!

6. Remember, you’re doing something

awesome. Adopting or fostering a shelter pet can be a lot of work, but it’s important to remember the good deed you’re doing. You’re providing an animal with a safe and happy home, and in return, you’re receiving unconditional love and affection.

More information can be found on the society’s website.