Preparing for Your New Dog
Now that the excitement is setting in, you might already be shopping for your new companion!
To help your dog settle into their new home, here’s a basic checklist of recommended essentials:
🛒 What to Buy
🍽️ Feeding & Basics
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Food and water bowls
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Dog food (we recommend Chappie to start with — it’s gentle on sensitive stomachs)
🛑 Safety & Identification
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Slip lead (required at drop-off)
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Collar, standard lead, and harness
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ID tag with your phone number, address, and postcode
(Legal requirement in the UK) -
Tracker (to attach to the collar for added peace of mind)
🛏️Comfort & Rest
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Crate (great for travel and safe settling in)
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Dog bed
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Blankets (for comfort and warmth)
🧼 Hygiene & Grooming
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Dog shampoo and pet-safe wet wipes
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Canine toothbrush and toothpaste
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Brush and comb (grooming is a great bonding activity)
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Non-toxic cleanser (for cleaning up accidents)
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Poop bags
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Absorbent house training pads
🧸 Enrichment & Health
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A variety of toys (chew toys, soft toys, puzzles)
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A variety of treats (great for training and rewarding good behaviour)
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Probiotic vitamins (Pro-Kolin is highly recommended)
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Flea and worm treatment (to be given 4 weeks after arrival)
💡 We recommend purchasing flea and worm treatment from your vet, as it is more effective and reliable than over-the-counter alternatives.
🛑 Safety & Environment
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Baby Gates or Playpen – These can help limit access to certain areas in the house, especially when the dog is adjusting.
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Secure Fencing – Ensure your garden or yard is properly fenced in to prevent escapes.
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Car Seat Belt Harness or Car Carrier – For safe travel in the car to and from appointments or outings.
Having these items ready before your dog arrives will help ease their transition and support a positive start to their new life with you.
🔗 A Slip Lead Is Essential for Your Dog’s Arrival
To ensure safety during transport and handover:
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A slip lead is required when collecting your dog.
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It provides secure control and reduces the risk of escape during those first unfamiliar moments.
🐾 Why a slip lead?
Slip leads are quick to fit, escape-resistant, and ideal for nervous or flighty dogs who may not be comfortable with a harness or collar yet.
🏠 Crates Are Also Recommended
Using a crate during transport or for the first few days at home can:
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Help your dog feel secure.
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Reduce stress in a new environment.
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Prevent accidents or destructive behavior while they adjust.
✅ Make sure the crate is the right size — your dog should be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
Preparing for Your New Cat
Now that the excitement is building, you might already be shopping for your new feline friend!
To help your cat settle comfortably into their new home, here’s a simple checklist of recommended essentials:
🛒 What to Buy
🧳 Travel & Safety
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Cat carrier – Essential for safe transport to and from the vet or other outings.
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Collar – Choose a breakaway or safety collar to prevent accidents.
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ID tag – Include your name, address, and contact number.
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Window screens (to prevent escapes)
🍽️ Feeding Essentials
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Food and water bowls
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A good-quality cat food (check with the rescue for what your cat is currently eating)
🛏️ Comfort & Rest
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Cat bed – Keep in mind, your cat may choose their own favourite spot (which might not be the bed you bought!).
🐾 Tip: Wait to see where your cat settles before investing in multiple beds.
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Calming diffuser – Plug-in diffusers like Feliway help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm in your home.
🛒 Easily available on Amazon or at most pet stores.
🧼 Grooming & Hygiene
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Brush or comb – Regular grooming helps with bonding and keeps their coat in good condition.
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Litter tray – Choose one that’s the right size for your cat, and use the same litter type they’re used to, at least initially.
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Litter Scoop
🩺 Health
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Pro-Kolin – A probiotic paste that supports digestive health, especially helpful during times of stress or transition.
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Flea and worm treatment –
💡 We recommend getting this from your vet, as prescription treatments are generally more effective and longer-lasting than over-the-counter options.
🎾 Enrichment & Play
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A variety of cat toys that stimulate mental activity and mimic natural hunting behaviours — wand toys, balls, tunnels, and puzzle feeders are all great options.
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Scratching post or cat tree
For the safe and smooth arrival of your cat, a crate is required. This will ensure your cat’s security during transport and help them settle into their new environment with ease.
Giving your cat a calm, well-prepared environment will make their transition easier and help them feel safe and loved from the start.