Preparing for A Pet: 5 Steps Every Future Pet Owner Should Do Before Welcoming Home A Furry Friend

The majority of renters bring come with a furry family member or are looking to add one once they get settled in their new apartment home.  According to a Zillow research group, 31% of renters own dogs, 22% own cats, and 46% have another pet.  Pet policies are very likely to sway a renter’s choice in choosing a community and can eliminate them all together before they even visit.

Many renters are interested in having a pet and must consider multiple factors before picking the perfect fur-roommate.  Often individuals think of pets as family, while apartment communities can often see the risks that residents of the fur-variety bring.  It’s important as an informed pet owner to do research and prepare. 
 

Know the Breed and Weight Restrictions

It’s common to see restrictions vary at communities based on the weight and breed of the animal.  Before going down to the local shelter or putting your name on a waitlist for a pet, it’s important to be informed on what these restrictions entail.

Prepare Your Space  

Pets are messy and often destroy items unintentionally.  Before picking up a new pet go through your apartment home and move or put away things that you want to protect.  Adding darker couch covers could protect light furniture and moving that antique rug may be a good idea until the new pet is potty trained.

Find A Local Vet

Finding a local, trustworthy vet is important while preparing for the homecoming of your new animal.  Rover suggests asking for recommendations from friends or family to start the search and even scheduling a visit to meet with the vet prior to your first visit.

Create A Designated Spot

Entering a new home can be a big change for a pet and owner alike.  Setting up a space for the pet with toys, a bed, and a crate (if needed) is a good way to make a pet comfortable and give them a safe space to call their own. 

Have the Time

While the idea of a pet is exciting and lots of fun, sometimes having one is not everything it’s expected to be.  Know that pets are demanding and require a lot of attention and time.  Do not enter into pet ownership lightly.
 

Bringing a new furry member into the family is a big responsibility and often brings an abundance of happiness.  Doing research and knowing what must be done to prepare is half the battle when embarking on pet ownership.  Finding a furry friend is the easy part!