TIPS FOR WELCOMING A NEW PUPPY OR NEW KITTEN INTO YOUR HOME

Few things in life bring as much joy as welcoming a new puppy or new kitten into your heart and home. The excitement and boundless energy they bring can light up any household. Whether you’ve recently adopted a fur baby or you’re considering it, these tips from our elite team of professional pet sitters will help you make this transition as smooth as possible.

SETTING THE FOUNDATION WITH VETERINARY CARE

The first step in caring for your new puppy or new kitten is finding a trustworthy veterinarian. An early vet visit ensures your new furbaby is healthy and sets the stage for a proper preventive health routine. During this initial visit, discuss vaccination schedules, spaying or neutering, and the possibility of microchipping. If your busy schedule makes it challenging to attend these appointments, don’t worry; VIP Pet Care offers Pet Taxi services and can even provide vet referrals.

NOURISHING YOUR GROWING PUPPY OR KITTEN

Puppies require frequent meals to support their rapid growth, typically three times a day. High-quality puppy food specially formulated for their nutritional needs is essential for their well-being. While small breeds may transition to adult food between 9 to 12 months, large breeds should stick to puppy food until they reach 2 years.

Kittens under 8 weeks need special care, including frequent bottle-feeding every two hours up to four weeks of age. If you’re caring for a kitten in this age group, you’ll also need to assist with bathroom needs. VIP Pet Services can make sure food and water bowls are attended to throughout the day, especially as young ones can be a bit clumsy!

HOUSEBREAKING PUPPIES AND LITTERBOX TRAINING KITTENS

Housetraining your new puppy requires patience, planning, and positive reinforcement. Having a consistent routine is key. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, before bedtime, after meals, after drinking, and after naps. Don’t forget potty breaks after vigorous play sessions. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated, select a safe outdoor potty area free from other animals.

For kittens, litter box training is the goal. Place them in the litter box after meals and play sessions to encourage this behavior. When it’s time to venture outdoors, always use a lead or a carrier for safety. Taking an unvaccinated kitten outside without protection is not advisable.

VIP Pet Services can assist with crate training, housebreaking or cleaning litter boxes, and cleaning up after any mishaps!

SOCIALIZATION AND TRAINING FOR YOUR NEW PUPPY OR KITTEN

Your new puppy is eager to please and become a cherished member of the family. Socializing and teaching basic commands like sit, stay, down, and come are essential for their safety and your peace of mind. These activities also strengthen your bond with your pet. Obedience classes are a great option and usually accept puppies starting at 4 to 6 months of age. VIP Pet Services offers training for dogs of all ages and love to help establish a foundation that makes your life easier.

Kittens should also begin socialization early. Regular petting, grooming, and gentle combing are helpful. Provide scratching alternatives like scratching posts and reward good behavior with toys, praise, or treats. Introduce them to other cats and kittens once they’re up to date on vaccinations. Some areas even offer kitten socialization classes; a quick internet search can help you find any in your locality.

Our sitters adore socializing with puppies and kittens. Our drop-in or hourly services are perfect for maintaining progress while you’re away. We provide a variety of pet services throughout the Dallas and Austin metropolitan areas. Book a visit now and get your new puppy or new kitten started off right with our VIP Puppy and Kitten packages!