Shontel Moulton

Preparing to bring a pet into your home and family means more than simply buying a food bowl and picking the cutest one at the shelter. Preparing for not only the first few days but also the entire life of your pet can be complicated. Keep reading below for some of the more important aspects of preparedness and how you can ensure your family is ready for anything.

First, pet-proofing your home. Puppies and kittens will chew and eat almost anything, including electrical cords, so ensure choking hazards and dangerous foods are put out of reach. Many human foods can be deadly to dogs and cats, including chocolate, onions, caffeine, and grapes. Additionally, many common houseplants, such as aloe, lilies, and ivy, can kill. If you have houseplants, double-check that they are safe for your new pet and/or are put well out of reach. Don’t forget to prepare your yard as well. Having a safety fence to keep your dog on your property and out of the road is probably the best way to keep them safe outside. Check the yard for hazards like nails or any other objects that can cut paws. Identify and remove any poisonous or unsafe plants and animal life. And don’t leave your dog outside if you are not home to supervise. Finally, always microchip your pets in case they escape your house or yard.

Another important aspect of preparedness is having a reliable pet sitter. We have several reputable dog kennels in the local area, but there are far fewer options for cats. There are some online pet sitting services available that will match you with people in your area. Take the time to set something up before you need it to help everyone feel less stressed when any situation arises.

Many people work long hours and, by necessity, need to leave their pets alone for extended hours every day. In these cases, having some kind of distraction/engagement available for your pet is crucial. The amount of engagement your pet needs depends on their age, breed, and species, so researching what kind of animal will fit with your lifestyle is the first step. There are services you can pay for to come walk your dog or spend time with your animals during the work day. In some cases, this may be the best option. All pets will need toys available. Puzzle toys that hold treats and make your pet work to get them are particularly engaging. There are also battery-operated balls, stuffed toys, and lasers that can provide exercise time when you are not around. Additionally, there are Wi-Fi-connected toys you can connect to from your cell phone to play from afar. There are myriad options available, so the trick is finding what works for your pet.

Finally, Colorado has extreme weather events like blizzards and forest fires, so having emergency evacuation plans is necessary. The first step is to make your pet a “go-bag.”  This bag should contain copies of your pet’s vaccination and health records, chip identification information, several days’ worth of medicine, food, and maybe a few treats. Include portable food and water bowls, blankets, and a familiar toy or two for comfort. Don’t forget a litter box for kitty and bags to take care of waste. It’s also a good idea to put current photos of you and your pet in the bag to prove ownership should you be separated. Keep the bag in an easily accessible place, like a hallway closet. That way, it’s easy to grab if you need to leave your home in a hurry. It will also be available if you are stuck at home for longer than expected due to a snowstorm or pandemic. Keep travel safety equipment, such as pet seats and seat belts, in your vehicle where they are always ready for use.

Next, do a little research. Make a list of pet-friendly hotels inside and outside of your immediate area; someplace you know you can take your pet if you need to go. It can be difficult to know where an evacuation will take you and your family, so having a list of major hotel chain phone numbers can help you find lodging no matter what direction you go. In the event of large-scale disasters, many airlines will waive pet travel requirements, but do not rely on that happening. Know what vaccinations your pet needs to get on an airplane and keep those up to date. 

All of this may seem complicated and overwhelming, but it can all be accomplished with just a little forethought and effort. Doing the work up front and being prepared will pay off in the form of happiness and comfort for you and your pets.