Grateful for a New Friend: Adopting a Pet This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, good food, and family gatherings. It’s also a season that inspires people to open their hearts and homes to those in need…including pets!

If you’ve been considering adding a furry friend to your family, Thanksgiving might be the perfect time to take this big step. Adopting a pet for the holidays can bring boatloads of joy, but it also comes with big responsibilities.

Here’s what the team at Rocklin Ranch Veterinary Hospital wants you to know about adopting a pet at Thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving Pet Adoption Tips 

1. Carefully Consider the Timing

Adopting a pet during the Thanksgiving holiday can be rewarding and seem like the perfect cozy addition to your home.

But it’s essential to make sure it’s the right time for your household. The holidays can be busy and sometimes stressful, with travel plans, family visits, and festive fun. You’ll need lots of time, energy, and resources to dedicate to your new pet, so you might need to scale back on your usual activities.

If you’re confident you can do this with ease, you’re ready to welcome a new furry friend! 

2. Choose the Right Pet for Your Family

One of the most important things to consider when you adopt a new pet is if the animal fits with your lifestyle and family dynamics. Whether you want to adopt a dog, cat, or even a goldfish, think about the needs your pet may have. What’s their energy level like? How much space do they need? What about things like food, exercise, and veterinary care?

Spend time with potential pets at the shelter or rescue organization to get a sense of their personality and how they might fit into your home. You might even be able to foster a pet before making the final decision to adopt.

Keep in mind that a pet is a long-term commitment, which is why it’s incredibly important to choose a companion that fits with your family’s lifestyle.

3. Plan for the Transition

The transition to a new home can be overwhelming for any pet, especially during the busy holiday season. Between the regular smells and sounds in your home, and your holiday décor (and cooking!), there’s a lot to process. 

So plan for a gradual introduction to your household and family members. Give your new pet time to explore your home, and to get used to it at his own pace. 

Keep the routine as consistent as possible, including regular meal times, bathroom breaks, and structured times for rest (and play!).

If you plan to have guests over for Thanksgiving, your pet’s comfort level should be top of mind. Set aside a quiet space where your dog or cat can retreat if they feel overwhelmed—and keep a close eye on them when they’re not in that quiet space. 

Adopted pets can have complicated backgrounds, and it’s important not to push too much newness on them right away.

Thankful Thanksgiving

Adopting a pet during Thanksgiving is a wonderful gift to yourself and your family. But it’s also a huge gift to the animal in need of a loving home. By choosing to adopt, you’re giving a pet a second chance at life while creating a bond you both will treasure for years to come.

As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, you’ll have even more to be grateful for with your new furry friend by your side.

Just remember to bring your new pet to the vet as soon as you can, holidays and all. We recommend setting up wellness care within a week of bringing any new pet home. 

Our caring team can help make the transition smooth for you and your Thanksgiving bundle of joy. Call us at 916-624-7387 to schedule an appointment!