If you've just welcomed a new pet home-be it a rescue, a puppy, or a kitten, part of the fun is shopping for all things they will need. However, before you splurge or buy with your heart rather than your head, be certain to have all of the pet essentials. While possibly less glamorous, the pet essentials will ensure that your pet is healthy and happy. Here are 10 pet essential you must have:
Vaccination
Many know that a new puppy needs vaccinations, commonly known as injections or jabs. Adult dogs might also require booster vaccinations. A full course of vaccination has to be completed at regular intervals to ensure that your pet is protected. If you have acquired an adult dog you should have been provided with evidence of vaccination and the vaccination card should inform you when your dog's next booster is due.
If you don't have a vaccination card, then consult your own vet and find out if your dog needs a primary course of vaccinations (starting from scratch) or if just a booster vaccine is required. Cats and kittens should also be vaccinated, with a first series of injections (typically two spaced a number of weeks apart) and boosters afterwards.
Parasite control
Worming is an integral part of puppy and kitten care. It is more about your puppy or kitten's health-it is also about that of your family.
A responsible breeder will have a good worming schedule in place, so your new puppy or kitten should have already been treated for worms, but regular worming must continue once your puppy or kitten comes into its new home, and needless to say adult dogs should be wormed of course.
Roundworms can affect the health of children if the worm eggs are swallowed, so therefore all dogs should be wormed regularly for roundworm,
- You should always pick up dog waste straight away (or at least daily in your own garden)
- Make sure that everyone washes their hands after handling dogs and cats, especially puppies and kittens.
There are also other parasitic worms that dogs and cats can pick up which are harmful to them. Consulting your veterinarian is mandatory.
Pet insurance
Like human medicine, there have also been great advances in veterinary care. From MRI and CT scans to chemotherapy, pets can benefit from top quality diagnostics and medicines and some vets are specialists in treating certain diseases. But this care does come at a cost.
Pet insurance is a blessing at these times. When your pet falls ill without warning, the insurance to an extent covers the funding. The cost of treatment doesn't have to be priority in your mind, letting you help your pet feel better.
The level of cover can vary a lot between providers, and so can the cost of insurance. Shop around for the best deal and level of cover and ask other pet owners for recommendations.
Neutering
Probably one of the best understood benefits of neutering is the prevention of unwanted litter from your female pet, but there are also health benefits too.
A male pet is neutered by a process called castration, which is the removal of the testicles. Neutering a female pet typically involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus. In cats of either sex it prevents the act of roaming and possible fights. In dogs sometimes it may prevent aggression or wandering.
It is impossible to remove the ovaries from a female because the pet will no longer come into 'heat' or 'season'. This is just one of the reasons the simpler procedure of 'tying the tubes' isn't usually done, although leaving the ovaries means it will still come into season with all the hassle that brings.
Cats can get pregnant when they are still young and get pregnant again just before their kittens are weaned. So the cycle goes on, and female cats soon become wearied, so many are spayed at about 5-6 months or even earlier.
Depending on the age at neutering some protection against mammary tumours (breast cancer) can be gained and womb infections which are common in older dogs can be prevented.
Discuss neutering routine with your vet at the practice where your pet is cared for and the benefits this can provide to your pet.
Food bowl and food!
You are what you eat – and a healthy diet is a must at any stage of your pet's life. There is so much choice about how to feed and any food must be nutritionally balanced and provide all the nutrients your pet needs.
Cats are obligate carnivores – meaning they must be fed meat and dogs also have specific nutritional requirements. It may be appealing to feed your dog the same sort of food that you eat, but that is not going to be nutritionally appropriate, nor is it necessarily what your dog would choose to eat.
Unless your dog has been fed a totally inappropriate diet it is better to stick with the same food at least in the short term after first arriving at your home. Gradually alter what you feed by adding new food to previous food and increase the amount of new food over a couple of weeks.
Stainless steel bowls are easy to clean while ceramic bowls don't tend to be moved round the floor during eating. Plastic food bowls may need to be replaced periodically as it can absorb smells and some dogs will chew them.
Presentation of food does matter a lot and some pets will refuse food if the presentation varies from what they become accustomed to - for example, if food bowls are put on a mat, or in a certain position within a room.
Water bowls
Pets should not have restricted access to water unless there is specific veterinary advice applying to an individual pet.
Drinking stations scattered around the home will ensure your pet always has an opportunity to stay hydrated. Ceramic bowls can also be recommended or stainless steel bowls in weighted stands.
For pets which like to drink running water, there are drinking fountains for such requirements.
Training aids
Whether it's a treat for their dinner, or a clicker to teach them tricks, rewarding good behavior is a real key if you want a well-behaved pet. From walking on the lead, to toilet training and responding to you when you call, all positive behaviour should be rewarded. Even old dogs (and cats) can learn new tricks, so give it a go!
Brush or comb
A matted coat can be painful, pinching and pulling on your pet's skin. The only option for these breeds is brushing or combing daily. Long-haired breeds will need to be combed regularly to remove tangles but many short-haired breeds can be brushed to remove dead skin scales and stimulate oil production to bring back shine.
For instance, dogs with long ear flaps need to be regularly cleaned, especially if it is prone to wax build up, and deep skin folds will need to be cleaned regularly using wipes specifically designed for dog skin.
Toothbrush
Yes, pets' teeth should be brushed too! A little time and patience at the beginning can make all the difference, but regular brushing can keep a pet's gums and teeth clean and healthy.
Infected gums can have a big influence on your pet's overall health, so it is well worth the effort.
Use a veterinary toothpaste that's formulated for cats and dogs – as the enamel of their teeth is softer than human enamel and also they can't rinse and spit so can suffer an upset tum if they swallow toothpastes designed for people.
Collar and identity disc
Many owners of cats do not fit a collar, mainly because of potential dangers. Do keep in mind though that a collar with a bell provides a warning and protection to birds and wildlife if your cat is a hunter.
Sometimes a collar alone isn’t the best option when taking your pet for a walk especially if training isn’t complete and the dog still pulls on the leash, has previously suffered a neck injury, or if it is difficult to fit a collar in such a way that the pet is safe and secure. A headcollar or harness can be a good option in these cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Essentials in the UK
Why is identification important for my pet?
An ID tag with your contact information is crucial in case your pet gets lost. Microchipping is also highly recommended.
What grooming supplies do I need?
The specific grooming needs will vary depending on your pet's breed and coat type. Basic supplies may include brushes, combs, nail clippers, and shampoo.
How can I choose the right toys for my pet?
Select toys that are safe, durable, and appropriate for your pet's age and interests. Consider puzzle toys to stimulate their minds.
What type of carrier should I get for my pet?
A sturdy, secure carrier is essential for vet visits and travel. Choose one that is comfortable and appropriate for your pet's size.
Is pet insurance necessary in the UK?
Pet insurance can help cover unexpected veterinary costs. Consider the potential benefits and costs to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
From having the right bedding to nutrition, grooming equipment and toys, all these things are more than conveniences-they are important to the health, comfort, and development of the pet. Hence the appropriate tools and care in getting your pet will surely help you build a home filled with love and nurturing that will truly strengthen that special bond between you and your furry friend. Investing in these essentials is investing in their happiness, making every tail wag or purr of contentment worth it!
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