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So, You Got a New Pet for Christmas? Here’s Your Guide to Starting Off Right!

Amanda Breckenridge

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Welcome to Pet Parenthood! A Guide to Your New Pet

It happened. Whether Santa brought a pup, kitty, or another furry bundle of joy, your family just grew by one adorable member. At Texas Ruff House, we know how exciting—and chaotic—a new pet can be. But don’t worry! With the right tips and a little extra help, you’ll soon have a happy, thriving companion.


Let’s dive into what you need to know to start this new chapter on the right paw.

New puppy with ball.

First Things First: Vet Visits Are a Must

Your new pet’s first vet visit is crucial. They’ll need vaccinations, a check-up, and possibly microchipping if it hasn’t been done yet. Early visits can also help catch any health concerns before they become bigger issues.

➡️ The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has a great guide for first-time and new pet parents.


Training: Set the Ground Rules Early

Training isn’t just about teaching commands; it’s about creating structure and building a bond. Puppies and kittens are sponges for learning, so now’s the time to teach them where to potty, how to behave, and what’s off-limits (looking at you, couch corners).


Pro Tip: Keep sessions short and fun! Pets learn best when they’re not overwhelmed.

For dogs, regular walks can reinforce leash manners. Texas Ruff House’s Walking Club is perfect for pups who need structured exercise and socialization!


New cat exploring.

Nutrition: Feed Them Right

Not all pet foods are created equal, and your pet’s age, size, and breed all play a role in what they should eat. Consult your vet for recommendations and avoid giving table scraps—it’s tempting, but it can lead to bad habits (and upset tummies).

➡️ Check out ASPCA’s guides to nutrition for cats and dogs for expert advice.


Bonding 101: Quality Time Matters

The secret to a happy pet is spending time with them. Play, snuggle, or just hang out while they explore their new home. This helps reduce stress and builds trust.


Need a break from constant attention? Consider our Field Trips! Your pup gets one-on-one adventure time with our walkers, so you can relax knowing they’re having a blast.


New puppy enjoying fall.

Creating a Pet-Friendly Home

Your home is now their home, too. Here’s how to make it safe and comfortable:

Socialization: Start Early

Introduce your new pet to people, places, and other animals in a controlled and positive way. For dogs, avoid dog parks (check out our blog on why we skip dog parks). Instead, explore quieter options like SniffSpot or arrange small playdates with well-socialized pets.


Managing the Post-Holiday Blues

Pets can feel overwhelmed after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Stick to a routine to help them adjust. Regular mealtimes, walks, and quiet moments can do wonders for their comfort.


Kitten playing with scratch pole.

Let Texas Ruff House Help

Whether it’s daily walks, exciting field trips, or keeping your kitty’s litter box fresh, Texas Ruff House has services to make life with your new pet easier. 


Emergency Prep: Be Ready for the Unexpected

As much as we hope for smooth sailing with our new pets, accidents and emergencies can happen. Whether it's a sudden injury, unexpected illness, or something your curious pet ate, it's crucial to be prepared.


Start by storing the contact information for your local emergency vet and any urgent care clinics in your phone. Here are some emergency vets in the Pflugerville, Round Rock, Georgetown areas. Having these numbers easily accessible can make a stressful situation a little easier to handle.


Also, don’t forget about Pet Poison Helpline or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control hotline. They can help guide you through any ingestion emergencies (chocolate, plants, human medications—yikes!) and give you instructions on what to do next.


A little pre-planning can go a long way in keeping your new furry family member safe! Keep these resources on hand, stay calm in emergencies, and you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.

Puppy playing outside.

Celebrate the Little Wins

Every tail wag, purr, and silly moment is a win. Celebrate your new pet’s milestones and cherish the journey of becoming their favorite human.


For more tips and resources, check out The Humane Society or ASPCA. You’ve got this!


Carla Tittle left the world of child education in 2015 to pursue her passion for helping people and their pets. Over time Carla has been able to cultivate a team of pet care experts and Texas Ruff House now services Pflugerville, Hutto, Round Rock, and Georgetown. As passionate pet owners ourselves, we know how important it is for your furry friends to receive the best care. Our daily visits make sure your pets get the exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need, giving you peace of mind while you finally take that long-awaited trip. From leash training and cat care to fun dog field trips, this blog is packed with expert tips straight from the pros in pet care!


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