Tips to welcome a new pet into the pack

Is the family welcoming a new furry family member this Christmas? 🎄🐾⁠

The best gifts come with four legs, bright eyes and plenty of energy, but they also need a little extra planning over the holiday season.⁠ ⁠ Here’s our checklist to help your new puppy or kitten settle in safely, confidently and calmly this Christmas.⁠ ⁠

From vaccinations and microchipping to sleep needs, separation training and holiday safety, we’ve covered the essentials so you can enjoy every joyful moment.

Arrange Vet Appointments

Early The holiday period comes with public holiday closures, limited appointments and reduced staffing. If you’re welcoming a new pet this Christmas, book your initial check-up, vaccination schedule and parasite prevention ahead of time.

Avoid High-Risk Areas Until Vaccinations Are Complete

If your puppy hasn’t finished their vaccination course, avoid high-traffic environments like beaches, dog parks and play dates with unknown pets. Your vet will let you know when it’s safe to explore the world more freely.

Pet-Proof Your Home

Tinsel, small toys, wrapping paper, ribbons and edible gifts can all pose choking or obstruction risks. Do a quick “pet-level scan” of your living spaces to remove tempting items.

Microchip + Check Your Details

Busy holidays mean open doors, visitors coming and going, and lots of distractions, making it easier for new pets to slip out unnoticed. Ensure your new puppy or kitten is microchipped early, and double-check that the registry has your current contact details.

Many pets come microchipped but not transferred to the new owner, which can delay reunions if they become lost. A quick update now can prevent a lot of stress later.

Prevent Early Separation Anxiety

If you’re home over Christmas but returning to work soon after, your puppy won’t understand why the family suddenly disappears.

To build healthy independence, schedule short periods of calm “alone time” each day, even while everyone is home. This helps prevent separation-related behaviours forming early.

Protect Their Sleep Needs

Puppies and kittens require significant sleep for proper development. With excited kids on holidays, remind the household that your new pet is still a baby and needs quiet breaks.

Crate training (for puppies) and creating elevated safe spaces or cosy beds (for kittens) help ensure they get quality rest.