New Pet Owner’s Guide

Bringing home a new pet is an exciting and joyous experience. Whether you've decided to adopt a furry feline friend or playful pup, or to welcome a guinea pig, rabbit, bird, or reptile into your family, being a responsible pet owner comes with its fair share of responsibilities. 
From regular vet visits to pet-proofing your home and ensuring proper pet care, there's a lot new pet owners need to consider, especially if you haven’t owned that type of pet or breed before. 

​Considerations For A New Pet Owner

Caring for your new pet involves more than just providing food and shelter, there can be a lot of nuances for new pet owners to consider that you might not be aware of. 
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Veterinary Visits

Regular visits to the vet are vital to your pet's overall well-being, and finding a reputable veterinary clinic in your area will ensure you have peace of mind knowing that they will be taken care of if ever your pet needs a checkup. Ask friends, family, and fellow pet owners in your area for local recommendations to find a reliable and compassionate veterinarian who will cater to your type of pet, and their specific needs.

After you’ve brought the newest member of your family home, whether it's a newborn kitten, an older dog, or anything else, it's essential that you take your pet for a comprehensive health check-up. The vet will examine your pet's overall health, administer necessary vaccinations, and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. They can also advise you on preventive measures such as flea and tick control, deworming, spaying/neutering, or any other things that you might not have considered.

Preparing Your Home

When welcoming a new pet into your home, it's essential to consider their safety and comfort by pet proofing your home. Pets are often curious and may try to eat anything within their reach, so be sure to move any cleaning products,  medications, or alcohol. Most house plants are fine, but in some cases, plants or even foods can be dangerous to pets, and consulting with a veterinarian could help to clarify what is safe and what isn't. If your pet will have outdoor access, you should also check any plants you might have outside, and make sure there aren't any gaps for them to escape. Inside your home, look for any potential hazards like loose wires or small objects that could be swallowed, and try to move them if possible. Depending on what pet you have, create a designated space for them to call home, whether it's a crate, a bed in a quiet corner, or a designated room. 

Nutrition

Providing a well-balanced diet is essential for your pet's growth, development, and health. By consulting with your vet, you will be able to determine the best diet for your pet's breed, age, or conditions to keep your new family member in tip top shape. It’s not as easy as assuming all pet food is the same, because not only do breeds have widely varying requirements, if your pet has a condition, it may require specific requirements to ensure good health.

Exercise 

Regular exercise helps keep your pet physically and mentally stimulated, and depending on your environment and the type of animal you have, they may need daily walks or interactive playtime. By tailoring the exercise routine to your pet's needs, you can make it enjoyable for both of you! Depending on the breed of pet you have, their age, and their environment, they may require vigorous exercise to remain in optimal health, or a leisurely stroll, and consulting with a veterinarian can help ensure you offer your pet the best care for them.

Grooming

Proper grooming not only keeps your pet looking their best but also contributes to their overall health. Whether it’s brushing your pet's coat regularly to prevent matting and removing loose fur, trimming their nails, cleaning their ears, or brushing their teeth to maintain good oral hygiene, there are a number of considerations. Even if you’re a seasoned pet owner, if you get a new breed or animal, you need to ensure that you’re delivering the right kind of pet care. 

Training and Socialisation

Enrolling your pet in obedience training classes can help them learn basic commands and proper behaviour. Additionally, socialising your pet from a young age will ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly companions. Speaking with your veterinarian and pet owners of that type of animal or breed, you can get insights into the type of training you might need to give your pet.

Safety

Pet safety extends beyond external factors, and your home can present a number of risks that can endanger your pet. Speak with a veterinarian or pet owners who have a similar pet or breed to learn how to pet-proof your home: this might include removing any toxic plants, securing hazardous chemicals, and keeping small objects out of reach. By creating the right environment, your home will always be a safe space for your pet. Especially for pets that go outside regularly, you should also make sure your pet is always wearing a collar with an ID tag.

​Pet Care For Other Animals

In Australia, we love our pets: 6.9 million households have a total of 28.7 million pets, more than the entire population of Australia! Of the approximately 69% of Australian households with pets, 81% of these households have dogs and cats (48% and 33% respectively). Dogs and cats are the most popular choices for pet owners, but there is a wide variety of other fascinating animals that offer companionship to Aussies that need a specific type of care.

Birds

Birds are intelligent and sociable creatures that can bring joy to your home and wonderful companionship. When considering a bird as a pet, research the specific species to understand their needs, including cage size, diet, and environment. Birds require regular interaction, mental stimulation, and a balanced diet consisting of seeds, pellets, fruits, and vegetables, so be sure to provide them with a spacious cage, toys, and perches to help keep them happy and healthy.

Reptiles

Reptiles, such as snakes, lizards, and turtles, can make fascinating and low-maintenance pets, however, their unique requirements must be met to ensure their well-being. Research the specific species you're interested in to understand their habitat, temperature needs, diet, and potential lifespan, and speak to owners of similar pets. Setting up an appropriate enclosure with heating and lighting elements, providing a balanced diet, and regular vet check-ups are crucial for their health.
Small Mammals

Small mammals like rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and ferrets can make delightful pets, but a one-size-fits-all approach can’t be adopted, as each species has distinct needs and care requirements. Rabbits need ample space to hop and explore, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary care, and guinea pigs thrive with a companion and in a spacious enclosure, so it’s important to ensure you do your research about small mammal pet care before bringing one home.

Fish

Keeping an aquarium filled with vibrant fish can create a peaceful and mesmerising ambiance in your home, but before diving into fishkeeping and getting a new pet, be sure to research different fish species and their compatibility, tank size, water parameters, and feeding habits. Setting up a well-maintained aquarium with appropriate filtration, regular water testing, and a balanced diet will ensure the health and happiness of your aquatic pets.


Regardless of the type of pet you choose, responsible pet care is paramount. Providing a suitable environment, a proper diet, regular veterinary care, mental stimulation, and love and attention are essential for any pet's well-being. As pet owners, it's our duty to provide them with the love and care they deserve, from regular vet visits to proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, training, and safety precautions, so be sure to do your research.

Remember, being a pet owner is a lifelong commitment, but the love and companionship you receive in return are immeasurable, and by doing your research before bringing your new pet home, you’ll be setting them up for a happy and healthy life.  If you're ready to embark on this exciting journey with your new companion, contact our veterinary clinic today to plan your first visit. 

Our team of experienced veterinarians and dedicated staff are here to provide the best pet care in Melbourne, so be sure to schedule your appointment with us. We can't wait to meet you and your beloved pet!