by Ryedale Vets
There are lots of things to consider when getting a new family member; the start of a puppy or kitten’s life can have a big impact on their future, and if purchasing from a breeder, it’s important to make sure they are reputable and have their animal’s welfare at the forefront of their breeding. As owners, we all have a responsibility to provide a happy, healthy and fulfilling life to our pets.
The early days, weeks and months are crucial for the development of a puppy and kitten.
Puppies need plenty of socialisation with people, animals and new environments to help them adjust and grow up without fear. It’s important to keep this up until adulthood, as dogs go through several ‘fear stages’ when growing.
Kittens also need socialisation to learn about the world; this helps them adapt to new people and situations throughout their lives, which is important if they will live with other pets and children.
When choosing your new family member, it’s important to make sure you choose a breed that will match your lifestyle. Some dog breeds, such as working dogs, demand a lot of mental and physical stimulation which can be very time consuming for owners! Both puppies and kittens can become destructive if bored. A breed’s health and predisposed health problems are important to research too.
The finances of a new pet should always be considered too. Annual vaccinations, flea and worm treatments, neutering and the costs of veterinary treatment can add up significantly over the years. Pet insurance is a great option for helping to cover big costs, while health plans can help spread the costs of monthly and annual treatments over a year.
The team at Ryedale Vets are always on hand to give advice to new owners.
