Although it is not recommended, many families decide to get puppies and kittens for Christmas.  You should try to get new pets a few weeks before or after Christmas so that they aren’t overwhelmed with all of the Christmas day activity.  Here are a few tips to make your new addition feel welcome over the holiday period, particularly if you already have a dog or cat.

First and foremost, it is important to assess the temperament, health, and age of your existing pets.  If you have an aggressive dog, it may not be advisable to get another pet because the newcomer will be ‘invading’ your dog’s personal space.  An older, arthritic dog might not tolerate a bouncy puppy.  Older cats may start to go to the toilet in inappropriate places after another cat is introduced to the household.  They might also disappear for a few weeks.

Second, make sure you are able to accommodate a new pet.  You should have a separate pen, room, or crate for giving the newcomer its own space.  This will make the introduction easier because your original pet will not feel as threatened.  Before the arrival of your new pet, buy separate food dishes, toys, and a bed.  Not all dogs like to share and can become quite aggressive if a puppy eats out of its dish or takes its toys.

Third, pace introductions one step at a time. When introducing a new dog, make sure that you do so on neutral ground, such as a park.  If you get a new kitten, keep it in a separate room for a few weeks, so that you’re existing cat gets used to the smell, then introduce the kitten gradually.  If you get a rescued animal, be particularly careful, because it could have been abused previously, and its behaviour may be unpredictable.  You should leave a new pet alone for a while to explore its new surroundings.  Also let the animal come to you for attention, instead of actively seeking it out.

Finally, pay attention to both new and established pets.  You should spend time with each one individually.  Initially walk and play with them separately.  If your older dog feels that your new dog or puppy is getting more attention, the older dog may direct its jealousy towards the new dog.  It is possible that no matter what you do, your pets will not get along. If that is the situation, contact your veterinarian for alternatives. In most cases, however, following the above advice will lead to a happy outcome.

For further enquiries, please phone 045 480 478 or www.animalsfirst.ie
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