Establishing a routine for young pets helps them thrive for the long haul. Because stress can lead to behavioral issues later on, it’s critical to provide them with stability and consistency now so that they can start to learn acceptable behavior. Here are three things you need to know about why this is key.
#1: Train your young pet early on to prevent problem behaviors
Admit it—you’ve had a tough time teaching your excited puppy to stop jumping up for attention, or preventing your feisty kitten from climbing up your pant leg. While these naughty behaviors may be adorable when your pet is small, consider the same actions when they’re full-grown. A 100-pound Lab leaping at your face for a kiss or a 10-pound cat clawing up your leg in the summer won’t be so cute. Build a good foundation by teaching your pet acceptable behaviors from the moment you bring them home—remember, teaching your furry pal the right actions is much easier than correcting problems later on.
#2: Follow a routine to reduce stress in your pet
Since pets can’t understand any change in their daily routine, abrupt differences can be stressful. Young pets quickly pick up on a normal routine, and variance can create undue stress. For example, if you bring your new pet home when you’re on vacation and can spend all day at home with her when you resume your normal work schedule and leave each morning, your pet may become anxious and stressed. Welcoming a new pet during a vacation allows extra bonding time but can set a precedent for an unusual routine.
#3: Pets learn best with consistency
Before bringing your new pet home, discuss their rules with your family. Will your puppy be allowed on the couch? Is your kitten sleeping in your bed or in the living room? The entire family needs to be on the same page about consistent ground rules for the new pet, to avoid uncertainty.
Consistency is also key when housetraining your new puppy. Taking your pup out the same door to the same spot in the yard and using the same cue word for elimination will help your new pet understand what you expect much more quickly.
We hope you enjoy getting to know your young pet and bonding with them! Be sure to contact us to schedule a wellness exam for your new furry friend.