Pet care can encompass many things, from grooming to creating a safe environment. For many seniors, owning a pet is an extremely fulfilling experience that offers both mental and physical health benefits, but it can be overwhelming to care for an animal without the right preparation. It’s important to do some research before committing to a pet and create a plan for keeping it safe and healthy. You can also look for ways to get your home pet-proofed, both for their safety and to protect your belongings. Read on for some tips from Pettsie.
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Take good care of your furniture
Pets and furniture are a notorious mix, but, as HGTV points out, there are some things you can do to protect your pieces from damage. These days, there are a variety of inexpensive options available for treating your couches and chairs to protect them from spills and stains, such as Scotchgard. You can also look for a waterproof pet blanket, which keeps fur and dander from infiltrating your furniture.
Sometimes, accidents happen that cause damage to the upholstery itself. In this case, it’s a good idea to look for a professional service that can make repairs so you can keep your favorite pieces. Do some research and price comparisons by searching for services near you and reading reviews, then requesting quotes to ensure you get the best deal.
Take some precautions
While it’s important to protect your home and belongings, it’s just as important to take some precautions and create a safe environment for your pet. This might mean putting away electrical cords, checking your home or yard for poisonous plants, or setting up baby gates to prevent your animal from going down or up the stairs. You’ll want to prioritize your safety as well. Keep pet supplies (toys, food, leashes, etc.) in bins and pick them up at the end of every day to avoid tripping. Install lighting like night lights, especially if your pet will be sleeping inside with you, so that you don't accidentally trip over them at night should you need to get up.
It’s recommended that pet owners adopt animals from a shelter rather than buying from a pet store when possible. If your pet is a rescue, be sure to research the breed and find out if they are susceptible to certain health issues so you’ll be prepared.
Keep them up-to-date
Outside of any existing health issues, pets also require vaccinations and other preventative medication to stay healthy throughout the year, so the Animal Humane Society notes that it’s crucial to stay on top of their needs. Set up email or text notifications with your vet so they can send reminders about appointments or medication refills, and make a note on your calendar when your pet is due for things like a round of heartworm treatment or flea and tick care. You can also look for helpful reminder apps to download.
Make them feel at home
One of the biggest--and often easiest--ways to care for a new pet is simply to make him feel at home. Spend time with him as often as possible during the first few weeks, giving him beneficial playtime, plenty of exercises, and snuggle time. Provide stimulating toys to prevent boredom (which can also prevent damage to your belongings) and give him a comfy bed as well as his own space to retreat to when he’s feeling overstimulated.Owning a pet comes with a lot of responsibilities, but it also comes with a lot of love and comfort. Look online for low-cost resources that will help you keep your pet healthy and happy, and take measures to ensure that your home is a safe place for him to thrive.