How to Bring a Pet Into a Home With Different Pets

You have a new pet and now you get to take him home. The only problem is, you already have other animals. If not done correctly, your pets can become jealous of the new arrival. Before you bring home a dog to meet your cats, learn how to ease the transition for everyone.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Hold the new pet in your arms when you first enter home. This comforts the new pet under strange circumstances and controls the animal's movements. Remove your coat or jacket and sit down with the new pet in your arms. Ask a helper to bring your animals over to you one at a time. Make sure the helper carries each animal in his arms. Ask him to sit next to you so you can introduce the animals to each other. They are in close proximity, yet both are under control.
2. Let the pets smell each other, while still retaining control of both species. If you have a cat and are introducing a dog, expect a few hissy fits and some growling. When this happens, talk calmly to the animals. While you hold the new dog, pet your cat and talk to him. Ask your friend to pet and speak to the dog. This should calm them.
3. Release the family pet first, so he can either hide or go to his favorite place after the introductions. When you're sure the family pet is comfortable, release the new pet so he can go and investigate his new surroundings. Be wary and watchful, but don't hover over them. Go about your business. Don't expect all the animals to become friends instantly, it may take days or weeks, but it will eventually happen.
4. Feed the new pet in a separate area for the first few days. If you can feed the new pet in a bathroom with the door closed, he will feel more secure, and you'll avoid food fights. After the pets have become familiar with each other, you can introduce the other pets to your new pet's food area. Once they are all familiar with food areas, you can move the feeding station back to where it should be.