Now is a great time to add a new pet into your family. With the majority of us working from home, we are able to handle their needs better. It’s also a nice way to distract your children from their inevitable cabin fever and learn additional responsibilities. Best of all, pets are natural anxiety and stress relievers. Here are a few tips to ensure your children will have a positive experience with your new family member.
Talk About New-Pet Jitters
Before you adopt a pet, have a few conversations with your children so they know what to expect. Explain that your pet may be nervous at first. Not only does this let your child know it’s OK if they’re nervous about it too, but it will help them understand why a new kitten might hide for a day or two, or a puppy might endlessly run around the house at first. Teach them that if your new pet hides, it’s nothing personal. They’re just nervous! Pets need time to acclimate to their new surroundings just as much as some children might feel nervous if their new pet jumps on them or kisses them often.
How To Touch For Your Pet
Using a stuffed animal, show your child how to gently pet your new family member. Explain to your children not to pull your pets’ tail or touch his or her eyes. Every animal has sensitive spots, and it’s important that children know not to pull their pet’s fur or touch their whiskers. Also, teach them not to try and pet their new pet when he or she is eating or relieving themself.
Slow And Steady Wins The Race
Let your children know that for the first few days or the first week depending on your pet’s temperament, slow and steady wins the race. They need to not jump too much or scream even in excitement. Your new pet needs to know they’re in a safe space surrounded by love and positivity.
Watch For Warning Signs
Unlike a stuffed animal, your new pet will growl or hiss if they’re uncomfortable. Children should learn that this means the fun they were having stops, and that they should say something soothing as they walk away. Your new pet will come back to them when it’s ready.
At PetWow, we care about you and your pets, and are here to help with vaccinations and other healthcare needs your pet has during the COVID-19 crisis. During this period, we are waiving transportation fees to pick up your pet from your home in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky for their vet appointment. We’ll call to speak with you about their visit, and will bring them home afterward. You pay only for the vet appointment.
We also offer Home Veterinary Care, where our state-of-the-art mobile unit will park in your driveway or in front of your home and treat your pet there. It is sanitized and fully equipped with a pet pharmacy and all tools our vet needs. The prices are comparable to an office visit.
To schedule your appointment or to ask questions, please call us at 513-738-9691 or email us at [email protected]. For more pet care tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or LinkedIn!
