You’ve thought about it long and hard and now you are keen on introducing a new pet to the family. So, how do you go about doing it in a way that keeps your current pet relatively happy and ensures that a good relationship forms between your older pet and the new furball you’ve brought home? During this exciting, nervous and sometimes overwhelming stage it’s always helpful to be prepared.

INTRODUCTIONS TO OLDER DOGS:   

(requires two people)

Have the first introduction take place in a neutral area (not where you regularly walk your dog, but a place that is local without being a part of your current dog’s territory)

• Introduce your dog visually from a distance while they are on the lead. Give lots of praise and reward.
• Allow your dog to slowly approach, continuing the praise and affection.
• After a few minutes of socialising have the new pet taken away and continue to praise your dog for their good behaviour.
• Introduce the new pet again for intervals throughout the day, allowing them to have longer periods of time together. Encourage good behaviour with love and rewards.
• Once happy that your dog is reacting well to this new addition you can introduce them off lead, allowing physical contact. Make sure that if the new pet is afraid they have the opportunity to retreat. Do not force the interaction.
• When at home, allow your older dog to see the new pet from a distance, perhaps through a screen door.
• Allow your new pet to introduce themselves to their new home. Keep the atmosphere positive and calm.
• After viewing through the screen and receiving a positive reaction you can then allow new and older pets to interact. Make sure to give plenty of praise and rewards and keep play sessions short and positive.
• Your pets should become firm friends in no time with plenty of love and praise.

INTRODUCTIONS TO OLDER CATS:

• Because cats love their space it is important to give them a few days to acquaint themselves with the new situation. Make sure you use positive reinforcement and never force the new and older pet to interact.
• Introduce the new pet from a distance, allowing your current cat to remain high up if they wish.
• Give the new pet a comfortable place, like a bedroom that is the least frequented by your current cat.
• Allow your cat to explore the house with your new pet if they wish to, giving them the space to move around freely.
• If you choose to use Feliway it is important to have it plugged in at least 24 hours prior to the introductions.

NOTE: Adding some new toys and using D.A.P or Feliway (synthetic dog or cat pheromones) can help make the environment more comfortable and safe. Also keep separate food, drinking bowls and sleeping areas for each pet.

For further information please contact Pet Doctors Palm Beach on 5576 0400.