How to Introduce a Second Pet into Your Home

After months of thinking and planning, you’ve finally made the choice to bring a second pet into your home. While you hope that your current pet will welcome the newest furry member of the family with open arms, the introduction doesn’t always go as planned.

Before bringing a second pet into your home, there are things you’ll want to do to set the right environment and to ensure that your current pet is prepared for a new four-legged friend.

Keep reading to learn tips and tricks to bringing a second pet into your home. We’ll also discuss how a sliding door pet door can help make the process a little easier!

Choose a Neutral Location

The first step in introducing a new pet to an existing pet is to choose a neutral setting. You don’t want to bring the new dog or cat into the home without first introducing them, as this can cause your pet to become territorial and aggressive.

Depending on your pet, a neutral location may be the backyard, or you may have to choose a park or a field away from the home.

When first introducing both animals, be sure that both pets are leashed. Allow them to interact at their own pace and don’t force them to interact if they initially ignore each other. You never want to put either pet in a situation where they feel the need to become aggressive or defensive.

Make It a Positive Experience

While the introduction period can be a bit nerve-wracking, your pets can pick up on your emotions. So, if you’re nervous and worried, they’ll sense that. Keep the introduction experience as positive as possible. You can do this by:

• Keeping a happy tone in your voice
• Having plenty of treats handy
• Giving both pets equal attention

When done properly, introducing your pets can be a positive experience for you and your furry family members.

Space Is Important

Depending on your pets, the introduction period can last for days—sometimes even a few weeks. To minimize territorial behavior, you’ll want to give both pets the proper space to roam and exercise. If you have a backyard, now may be a good idea to invest in a pet door.

With a sliding door pet door, your pets can go in and out of the home as they please. It also gives them the opportunity to burn access energy. This gives both pets even more space and minimizes the risk of aggressive and territorial behavior.

Choose Australia Pet Doors for a Durable Product

No matter if you’re looking for an electronic dog door for sliding glass door, cat flaps, or a pet door insert, you’ll find all of these options and many others at Australia Pet Doors. We specialize in safe, durable, and long-lasting pet doors for dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes.

Before picking up your new pet, ensure you have the right pet door installed and ready to go. Call our team at 0437-644-330 or contact us online to place your order.