Welcoming a New Pet into Your Home

Bringing a new pet into your home is an exciting milestone — and one that comes with important responsibilities. Whether you’re welcoming a new puppy or kitten, or adopting an adult pet, good preparation and early support can make the transition smoother for both you and your new companion.

Below are some key areas to consider to help your pet get the best possible start.

Before your new pet arrives, it’s worth taking time to prepare your environment so it’s safe, calm, and welcoming.

Practical steps include:

• Pet-proofing your home by securing electrical cords, removing toxic plants, and safely storing chemicals and medications
• Choosing a quiet, comfortable sleeping area where your pet can retreat and feel secure
• Setting up designated areas for eating, toileting, and play to help establish routine
• Purchasing essential items such as food and water bowls, appropriate food, bedding, toys, collar and lead (or harness), and litter trays for cats

Setting up a crate for puppies and beginning crate training from day one

Crate training is a valuable, positive tool for all new puppies. When introduced correctly, a crate provides a safe, calm space for rest and sleep, supports toilet training, helps prevent destructive behaviours, and makes travel and veterinary visits less stressful. Crates should always be introduced gradually and positively — never used as punishment — and should be a place where your puppy feels secure and relaxed.

Early veterinary care is essential to support your pet’s long?term health and wellbeing.

Your first veterinary visit is an opportunity to:

• Perform a full physical health check
• Discuss a tailored vaccination schedule
• Start parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal worms
• Confirm or arrange microchipping
• Discuss desexing options and appropriate timing
• Ask questions about behaviour, nutrition, and lifestyle

Regular veterinary visits allow early detection of health concerns and ensure your pet’s care is adapted as they grow.

Proper identification is essential — especially for young or newly adopted pets who may be unfamiliar with their new environment and more likely to wander.

To stay compliant and help your pet get home safely, ensure your pet:

• Is microchipped, with your current contact details registered
• Wears a secure, well-fitted collar with an ID tag and phone number
• Is registered in accordance with South Australian Dog and Cat Management Board (DCMB) requirements

In South Australia, dog and cat registration is managed through the Dog and Cat Management Board (DCMB) system. Unfortunately, the DCMB website is often unavailable for extended periods, which can make it difficult for pet owners to complete or update registrations and, in some cases, may result in fines despite best efforts.

If you experience issues accessing the DCMB system, we strongly recommend contacting your local council, as they are often able to assist with registrations, updates, or provide guidance. Checking your council’s website or speaking with them directly is usually the quickest and most reliable option.

Keeping identification details up to date significantly increases the chance of a fast and stress-free reunion if your pet ever becomes lost.

Training and early socialisation are key to raising a confident, calm, and well-adjusted pet. The habits and experiences introduced early in life can have a lasting impact on behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

Helpful training tips include:

• Start training as early as possible, using clear, consistent guidance
• Make use of the many online training resources available, including our favourite, the Puppr app, which offers easy-to-follow exercises and training plans
• Keep training sessions short, consistent, and rewarding
• Gradually introduce your pet to new people, environments, sounds, and everyday experiences

Puppy preschool and structured training classes are highly recommended, helping puppies develop good manners and social skills while giving owners guidance during this crucial learning stage. Adult pets can also benefit from training support, particularly when adjusting to a new home or routine.

We’re excited to announce that in 2026, we’ll be recommencing puppy classes, as well as introducing adult one-on-one and group classes - giving pets of all ages the opportunity to learn, socialise, and thrive. Watch this space for more details!

Good nutrition supports growth, development, immune health, and long?term wellbeing.

When feeding your new pet:

• Choose a high?quality diet appropriate for their age, size, and breed
• Follow recommended feeding guidelines and monitor body condition
• Avoid feeding table scraps or human food unless advised by your vet
• Introduce dietary changes gradually to avoid digestive upset

Your veterinary team can help you select the most suitable diet for your pet’s individual needs.

Unexpected illness or injury can occur at any time, and veterinary care costs can add up quickly.

Pet insurance can help reduce financial stress by covering part of the cost of accidents, illness, and emergency treatment. Insurance is best arranged early, before any pre?existing conditions develop.

In addition to insurance, it’s important to budget for ongoing expenses such as:

• Routine health checks and vaccinations
• Parasite prevention
• Food and enrichment
• Training and grooming

Routine helps pets feel safe and secure. Establish consistent times for feeding, exercise, training, play, and rest. Be patient — especially with rescued or rehomed pets — as adjustment can take time.

Positive interactions, gentle guidance, and consistency will help build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Welcoming a new pet is the beginning of a rewarding journey. Our veterinary team is here to support you with advice, preventative care, and guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.

If you have questions or would like to book your pet’s first visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch - we look forward to being part of your pet’s life from the very beginning.