Are you thinking about adopting a cat or dog? Congratulations!

Bringing a new family member home can be a joyful experience, but it also can be stressful for them. Follow these steps to help them happily adjust to their new surroundings.

Stock up
Getting a pet is like having a baby in many ways. After all, your life is about to change dramatically, and you’ll require all sorts of supplies to care for your new furry bundle of joy. To determine what to feed them, you can seek advice from your vet, breeder, or shelter. It will also be helpful to have a crash-tested carrier for the ride home and an ID collar, toys, a pet bed, and some bowls for kibble and water. As far as pet-specific items, purchase a litter box for your cat and a leash, some pee pads (if they aren’t house trained), and a crate for your dog.

Check their health status
Knowing if your pet needs any immediate care or vaccinations is essential, so obtain copies of their medical records if you can. Shortly after adopting them, ask your vet to perform a checkup, vaccinate them, spay or neuter them, and, if desired, insert a microchip to identify them.

Pet-proof your spaces
Your home should be safe for your pet. So keep potentially harmful objects, such as medications or small items they could ingest, out of reach or in a sealable container. Put protective covers on electrical cords and outlets, and prepare a place for them to sleep. You might also want to arrange their sleeping area in your bedroom to help them feel less anxious as they adjust to being in a new place.

Welcome them home
Before taking your new pup into your home, stop in your yard to prevent any excited or nervous accidents indoors. Allow your kitty or pup to explore once they are inside, but keep a watchful eye on them. Show them where to find their food, water, and bed and, for cats, the litter box. Your pet needs to feel secure in their new environment, so avoid having friends and family over right away. If you already own another cat or dog, carefully let them get to know each other, paying close attention to their respective body language. If introducing two dogs, do so in a neutral territory, like a local park, so your original pet is less likely to feel threatened. Should either seem uncomfortable, you may have to keep them separated at first.

Create a schedule 
Establishing a routine can give your pet a sense of security, so set certain times for them to eat, sleep, play, and exercise. Be patient—it could take them weeks or even months to adjust to your place. But no matter how much time they require, it will be well worth it.