Are you thinking about bringing a new set of paws into your home? As exciting as it may be, caring for a new pet requires more than just love. It’s a years-long commitment that will require research to ensure you select the right animal for your lifestyle, plus you’ll need to pick up a few supplies for your new friend. We’ve created this pet adoption checklist to help you get started!
Things to Think About
Do you have other pets? If you do, consider how your other fur friends typically respond to unfamiliar animals. Be sure you have a good grasp on how well they will get along with another animal before you bring a new pet into your home. If your current pet doesn’t particularly like other animals, then maybe it would be best to be a single-pet household.
Did you do your homework? Do a deep dive on Google to better understand specific breeds and how they may (or may not) suit your lifestyle before adopting. You’ll learn many important facts such as estimated size once they’re full grown, temperament, grooming needs, energy level, whether they’re good with kids, and the amount of space they need for happy living.
Do you have the budget? Be sure to sit down and evaluate your budget before adopting! Being able to afford a pet is more than simply food and water. They need grooming supplies, regular visits to the veterinarian, vaccinations, toys, treats, and other accessories like collars, leashes, and beds. Some cities require citizens to license their pets, some dog parks are membership only, and don’t forget unexpected emergency vet visits that arise from illness or injury.
Are you ready for the commitment? Remember, you’ll have this pet for many years to come and you’ll be putting a lot of your time and energy into their care. This includes training, grooming, plus the day-to-day walks, playtime, and bathroom breaks. Keep in mind, the average lifespan of a dog is about 12 – 15 years, while that of a cat is 15 – 20.
Is your household ready for a pet? When bringing home a new pet, you’ll have to either “puppy proof” or “cat proof” your home. Toxins such as plants and cleaning supplies must be out of reach, dangerous cords moved, breakables put in a safe place, escape routes secured, and any other threats removed. For more details on how to pet-proof your home check out our guide that walks you through the best ways to pet-proof your home room by room.
Basic Preparation
A handful of supplies are needed before you bring home a new animal. Get everything you need from our lists below prior to adopting a new dog or cat.
New Dog Supplies Checklist
- Collar, leash, and identification tag
- Microchip (acquired at the veterinarian)
- Dog poo bags, poo pickup tool for yards
- High-quality food
- Baby gates for doorways
- Training crate
- Comfortable, supportive bed
- Food and water bowls
- Grooming tools (for at-home care tips that will keep your dog looking sharp between visits to the groomer check out our grooming tips for dogs blog)
- Toys
- Treats
- Supplements to support good health
New Cat Supplies Checklist
- Collar, carrier and identification tag
- Microchip (acquired at the veterinarian)
- Litter box, scoop, and kitty litter
- High-quality food (both wet and dry)
- Food and water bowls
- Grooming supplies
- Comfortable bed
- Cat tree and scratching post
- Toys
- Treats
- Supplements to support good health
Your Pets are our Priority!
At the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), our number one priority is to promote the health and wellbeing of your pets. That is why we created the NASC Audit Program and the Quality Seal, which helps you identify animal health and nutritional supplements that come from responsible suppliers committed to producing the highest quality, most consistent products available. Visit our website to learn more and to see a list of NASC members that have earned the Quality Seal.
