Guest post and infographic courtesy of Sarah Hollenbeck for Hippo.com
After losing a pet, we face an evitable choice. Do we want to welcome another pet into our home? Have we given ourselves enough time to grieve? When is the right time to adopt a new pet?
As pet people, once we understand our ability to love so deeply, the choice becomes clear. All of that potential for love and loyalty is just waiting for our next furry companion.
So, when we feel ready to do so, we make the choice to bring a new pet into our lives. Just as we did with our departed pet, we make sure that this new friend has the best life possible.
There’s no shame in spoiling your new pet right from the first “hello”, in fact it often helps with the healing process. You’ve probably already picked out plenty of toys, treats, and blankets for your new pawed-pal. But there are a few outside-the-box ideas you can use to make your pet feel like the center of your world from day one.
If your new pup is high-energy, there are several ways to help them safely exercise outdoors while they adjust to their new home with you. A classic doggy door is perfect for allowing them outdoor access. Doggy doors are easy to install, and can be simple or motorized depending on your needs.
If you have a large backyard, consider fencing off a portion and creating a dog run for your new pup. Construct your own private dog park with a doggie pool, ramps, and plenty of toys. Your dog will be safe and secure while playing outside all day with you.
With all of those backyard shenanigans, your new dog is likely to get a little dirty now and then. Instead of bringing them to the grooming salon every time they play in the dirt, consider making a do-it-yourself dog bathing station in your home. With a tub or bin and pull down shower head, you can bathe your pup right in their new home.
Adopting a senior dog can be incredibly rewarding. Senior dogs deserve a second chance at life, but they may also come with special considerations. Since their joints can sometimes be bothersome, you may want to consider installing ramps on any inclines they may have difficulty climbing. A ramp will help them climb stairs, get into the car for a ride, or reach your couch for a good cuddle session.
Senior dogs may also appreciate a warm place to lie down when your lap is out of service. Heated flooring can offer a great solution that happens to benefit you as well! Install heated tiles in your bathroom and your floor will become a pup-magnet.
If your new friend happens to be a feline, they will appreciate having their own space in your home as they adjust to their new life. Try providing them with their own cat tree to lounge in. Some cat trees will even include an enclosed space for private naps, which will provide your kitty with a safe spot to get away from the unfamiliar noises and smells.
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If your new cat prefers to spend time outdoors, keep them safe with an enclosed catio. Catios are an outdoor patio just for your cat, so they can get fresh air and feel the warm sun without risk of escaping or harming any local wildlife. Your new cat will appreciate having their own private space outdoors to bask in the sun.
Are you a former dog owner adopting your first cat? It may take some time to get used to the new care routines involved in cat ownership. The biggest difference? The litter box. Keeping a clean litter box is important for your cat’s health and hygiene. But you may not love the idea of a litter box in your living space. Instead, check out disguised litter boxes. Available in different colors and styles, many of these hidden litter boxes resemble regular furniture. Your cat will appreciate having extra privacy while they adjust to their new potty space.
Cats and dogs are often motivated by food. This can be a good opportunity when you’re trying to build your relationship with them. However, it can be difficult to keep all of their treats, foods, and bowls organized and away from pests. Get ahead of the organization game by creating a hide-away feeding area in your home. If you have an unused drawer in your kitchen, designate it as your “doggie drawer” and keep your pup’s treats filed away safely. Or turn an unused cabinet into a “kitty cupboard” so your new cat’s tuna stash can stay fresh and tidy.
Bringing a new pet into your home, especially after a loss, can be a challenge. Creating new memories that fill your heart with joy will come more easily with time. Set yourself up for success with your new pet by checking out these home update suggestions from Hippo.
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Did you find this post helpful? What tips will you use to help your new pet adjust after pet loss? Will any of these tips help your senior pet? Do you have any other tips to share? To learn more about helpful home upgrades for your pets, be sure to visit Hippo.com here.
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