Preparing for a puppy or kitten is a must and caring for them is no walk in the park! Making sure you have the right items to get you through potty training, teething, and teaching them tricks is important. Check out the following items that are great to have before bringing a pet into your home.
- A crate or kennel – blanket or dog bed to go inside of it
- Food and water bowls
- Dog food – talk to your veterinarian about what food they think is best for your pup
- Small dog treats
- Collar and ID tag
- Harness and leash
- Toys – Chew toys, plush toys, and fetching/active toys
- Dog toothpaste
- Dog shampoo
- Brush or comb for grooming
- Cleaning supplies – urine stain remover, vacuum for shedding dogs
- Dog waste bags
- Potty training pads
- Food and water bowls
- Cat food – Talk to your veterinarian about what food they think is best for your kitten
- Treats
- Cat bed
- Carrier
- Litter box and litter
- Cat scratcher
- Toys – interactive toys and Catnip toys
- Cat tree or perch
- Collar and ID tag
- Cleaning supplies – urine cleaners, odor eliminators
Be sure to puppy/kitten proof your home! Keep your pet out of areas that might contain hazardous materials such as chemicals under the kitchen or bathroom sink, or things that could lead to an unsafe situation such as a stair case or wires behind the TV. Baby gates are great to use to block off areas that you don't want your pet to enter.