Petcro
The New Pet Owner's
Complete Checklist
Complete Checklist
Everything you need for your first week with a dog or cat
Dogs CatsVet-reviewed tipsFree printable
Dog EssentialsFirst day supplies
Home setup
- Crate or dog bed (sized for adult dog)
- Food & water bowls (stainless steel)
- Baby gate to limit rooms at first
- Enzymatic cleaner for accidents
- Old towel or blanket that smells like you
Walks & collar
- Collar with ID tag (your phone number)
- 6ft leash
- Adjustable harness (kinder on the neck)
- Poop bags — buy in bulk!
- Retractable lead for open spaces
Grooming
- Slicker brush or comb (breed-appropriate)
- Dog shampoo (gentle, unscented)
- Nail clippers or vet nail trim booked
- Ear cleaning wipes
Toys & training
- Training treats (small and soft)
- Chew toy (redirects biting)
- Rope or tug toy
- Puzzle toy for mental stimulation
- Clicker (optional but helpful)
Cat EssentialsFirst day supplies
Litter & bathroom
- Litter box (one per cat + one extra)
- Unscented clumping litter
- Litter scoop
- Litter mat (catches tracking)
- Covered box if your cat is shy
Food & water
- Ceramic or stainless food bowl
- Wide, shallow water bowl (cats hate whisker fatigue)
- Cat water fountain (cats love moving water)
- High-quality wet food
- High-quality dry kibble
Comfort & enrichment
- Tall, sturdy scratching post
- Cat tree or window perch
- Cosy bed or fleece blanket
- Carrier for vet visits
- Cardboard box (seriously, they love them)
Toys
- Wand toy (feather or ribbon)
- Crinkle balls
- Catnip toy (not all cats react — that's normal)
- Laser pointer (always end with a physical toy)
Feeding Schedule GuideHow much and how often
Dogs
- Puppies under 6 months: 3–4 small meals/day
- Puppies 6–12 months: 2–3 meals/day
- Adult dogs: 2 meals/day
- Always have fresh water available
- Transition food slowly over 7–10 days
- No onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, or xylitol
Cats
- Kittens under 6 months: 3–4 small meals/day
- Adult cats: 2 meals/day (or free-feed dry)
- Wet food is great for hydration — aim for at least one serving/day
- Cats need hydration — try a water fountain
- Never feed dog food, onions, garlic, or grapes
- Watch for food intolerances — loose stools = change the food
First Vet VisitBook within 2 weeks
- Vet appointment booked (first 2 weeks)
- Vaccination records from breeder/shelter
- List of questions written down
- Flea & tick prevention plan discussed
- Spay/neuter timeline discussed
- Microchip registered in your name
- Pet insurance researched
- Parasite prevention (worms, fleas) started
Pet-Proof Your HomeSafety first
- Toxic plants removed or out of reach
- Electrical cables hidden or covered
- Cleaning products stored away
- Small objects that can be swallowed cleared
- Toilet lid kept down (for cats & small dogs)
- Balcony or garden secured
- Medications stored in latched cupboards
- Rubbish bins with lids or inside cupboards
First Week TipsSet your pet up for success
Stick to a routineConsistent feeding, walk, and bedtimes from day one help your pet settle faster.
Start smallLimit access to one or two rooms at first. Expand their world as they gain confidence.
Positive reinforcement onlyReward good behaviour with treats and praise. Never punish — redirect instead.
Let them come to youDon't force cuddles. Let your pet approach on their own terms — trust builds faster that way.
Quiet for a few daysHold off on the big family visits. Give them time to learn your scent and your home first.
Watch their stoolsLoose stools for 1–2 days are normal. Longer than that, or any blood, call your vet.
Important Numbers to Keep HandyFill these in now
Your vet:
Emergency vet:
Pet sitter / dog walker:
Pet's microchip no.:
Breeder / shelter:
Pet insurance claim line:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 1-888-426-4435 | ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661