Bringing home a new furry friend is one of the most exciting journeys you can begin in life. Committing to a pet is kind of like having a kid – you’ll want to provide the very best you can for them and take care of them in every way possible.
If you’re new to pet ownership, you’ll be aware of the basics, but you might need some tips on everything you’ll need to take proper care of your new puppy or kitten.
Here are some must-haves for taking the best care of your newest addition.
Pet Insurance
You’ll definitely want to budget for pet insurance coverage to ensure that you’re always financially covered to care for your new furry family member. Vet bills can get tough to manage, from annual, general visits and shots, to unexpected illnesses and injuries, these bills can add up to unmanageable amounts.
A good insurance policy for your pet’s health will help reduce vet bills and ensure that you’re always capable of taking care of them, even if something big and expensive pops up at random.
High-Quality Food
Another great way to reduce vet visits is by prioritising your pet’s health, which can be done by ensuring they’re eating the best quality food. Cheap pet food is packed with useless filler ingredients to bulk it up that have no nutritional value and can even be detrimental to your pet’s health.
This is why choosing premium pet food is the best way to ensure they’re getting what they need. You’ll also want to ensure that you provide the right type of food for your pet, such as food for puppies or kittens, special food for sensitive digestion or senior food for older pets.
Collar and ID Tag
Yes, a pretty collar will make them look adorable, but a collar and tag serve a much bigger and more important purpose. If your furry friend gets out and goes missing, an ID tag will help anyone who finds them to locate you and get them home ASAP.
You could also talk to your local vet or shelter about getting your pets chipped.
A Crate or Bed
Your pup or kitten will need somewhere to sleep, and you should consider splashing the cash on a high-quality sleeping space for them if you want it to last the years. A crate and some blankets and pillows, or a soft, comfy bed are both good investments.
Crate training is a slightly controversial topic, so if you’re not into the idea, a regular dog bed will be essential for your puppy, especially if you don’t want them in your own bed.
Pet-Friendly Water Bottles
When we head out to the gym, it’s pretty typical to pack a water bottle to keep us feeling fresh and hydrated while we’re being active. Why not do the same for your pets?
If you take your dog (or even your cat) out on walks, which you should do, they’ll need to stay hydrated too. You can invest in a special water bottle to keep your dog hydrated, especially on longer walks.
