18 essential tips for first-time pet owners

As soon as your pet gets to its new forever home, it's going to have needs. Make sure that you've purchased food, treats, toys, and a litter box (if necessary) in advance to avoid any issues on your pet's first day home. 

Whether you adopted a pet or purchased through a private breeder, a trip to the vet to check on your puppy or kitten's health is a must. At this visit, you can get a full check-up and any vaccinations that a young pet needs to be healthy. 

Puppies and kittens are curious, and that can occasionally mean disaster when that curiosity is expressed all over your new shoes or the side of the couch. Make sure that anything that could be toxic to your pet is out of its reach, along with items that you want to keep safe from sharp little teeth and claws. 

If you adopted your pet from a shelter, it's likely that they have already been microchipped, a process that attaches an electronic chip to your pet in case they get lost. That's likely not the case if you purchased from a breeder, and investing in a microchip can mean the difference between tragedy and a happy ending if your pet ever gets out of the house. 

Your new pet will need lots of training on how to live in its new home, and it's up to you to make sure they understand the rules. Start training your pet on where to go to the bathroom, how to interact with people, and which items they're allowed to play with as early as possible. 

If you work long hours or don't have tons of time to dedicate to training your new pet, consider hiring a trainer. They're experienced in dealing with common issues, like barking or scratching and can knock out problematic behaviors quickly and effectively. 

Whether it's a dog or a cat, every different breed has different requirements. Some, like English bulldogs, are prone to certain health conditions, while others, like Huskies, require a high-energy household. Seek out resources from organizations like the American Kennel Club for information on your breed's temperament, potential health concerns, and even what to expect when it comes to shedding. 

Even if you're incredibly consistent with training, your pet will still likely have accidents as they adjust to their new home. Enzymatic cleaners are essential for removing odors from pet waste while investing in a handheld or cordless vacuum might be a good idea if your pet's breed is known for shedding heavily. 

Spaying and neutering housepets is a hugely important tool in the fight against homeless animals. If you don't intend to breed your dog or cat in the future, consider having them spayed or neutered to eliminate the risk of unwanted litters. 

Most pets, including high-energy cat breeds like Bengals, require some kind of daily exercise. Plan to take a walk with your new pup daily, or invest in toys that can keep your kitty entertained indoors. 

If your roommate's got a cat or you're hoping your pup will love to play with your best friend's dog, make sure that you're making these introductions slowly and safely. Cats and dogs can be territorial, and forcing two animals that don't know each other into the same space can have bloody consequences. 

It may seem a little pricey, but spending more on good-quality dog food can actually save cash in the long run by preventing health problems in your pet. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations. 

Sometimes, a new pet can be seriously frustrating — especially when they've created big messes. But training an animal requires time, patience, and consistency, and it's essential that you keep that in mind when your pup inevitably chews up something expensive or the cat knocks over yet another glass of water. 

Your pet needs a crate, a bed, some space that is exclusively their own. You'll also need space to store things like food, leashes, toys, and treats, and it's best to have that figured out in advance. 

Some dogs and cats can be bathed at home without issue, while others will need regular trips to a professional groomer to maintain their skin and coat. If your pet needs professional grooming, seek recommendations from friends to ensure that the person taking care of your pet is reputable. 

When you've got a pet, traveling is just a little bit more challenging. Before you need to take a trip, ask friends if they're able to pet sit your critters or look into reputable boarding facilities in your area. The same goes for a good dog walker, who can step in when you're not able to provide your pet the exercise they need. 

Emergency vet bills and other expensive events involving your pet can happen without a moment's notice, and it's good to have some funds on hand to make sure you've got enough cash to cover your pet's medical care. Set up a small savings fund, and use it to pay for medical expenses as they come up. 

Everything from cleaning supplies to houseplants can be toxic to pets. If you've got a dog or a cat, research which types of plants, cleaners, and foods are poisonous and keep your pet away from them.