Plan ahead so you will have some time to spend with your new family member. Moving to a new environment is often a stressful experience. The first 48 hours at home are confusing for a new pet and will be the toughest, but patience and a few guidelines will help the transition.

We only adopt animals that appear healthy, but even the transition from shelter to home can spark enough stress that a new pet may acquire a sudden respiratory illness (a cold).

If your new pet coughs or sneezes, seems unwell or if you have any concerns whatsoever, please call our hospital at (510) 845-3633. At anytime, you may use the coupon provided during adoption for a free examination at our hospital (good for one full year from the date of adoption).

Lost Pet Prevention

• Make sure your pet always has a collar on with an identification tag listing your contact information.
• If your pet has any special medical needs, make sure they are specified on his/her identification tags.
• Microchip your pet.
• Keep a large, clear, and recent photo of your pet in a safe place.
• If your pet has a tendency to wonder off without responding when you call him/her to you, always keep him/her on a leash when in public places.

You may also want to consider purchasing a 3-Day Pet Survival Kit in order to take care of your pet during a disaster or emergency.

Caring for Your New Dog

Caring for Your New Cat