Getting a Pet Checklist

All the things you need to do to prepare your home for a new pet

Making it easy to manage life in your home

You can do all this yourself, or let your Porch Home Assistant do it for you!

Pet-proof your home

Lock away household chemicals and cleaners
Place houseplants out of reach. Many are poisonous.
Tie electrical cords out of the way if you can - new puppies and kitties are prone to curious chewing.

Consider custom home updates for your pet

Consider installing a pet door for easy access to the yard
Will your yard need a fence to keep your new pet contained?

Find a vet

Ask friends and family for a referral to their favorite veteranarian
Look online for recommendations for good local vets - keep reviews and affordability in mind
Check and be sure they have emergency hours just in case!

Pick up needed supplies

Where will your new pet sleep? Do they need special bedding or accomodations?
Do they have special dietary needs? Will they want treats?
How will you keep your pet entertained when you aren't home?

Work out a care schedule for your pet and your family

Talk with your family to determine who will housebreak the dog, who will take the dog for walks, who will feed the dog, and who will play with it
Discuss what time these responsibilities will take place each day and determine if additional care is needed

Don't forget identification for your pet

Consider getting your pet microchipped
Secondary identification tags for a pet's collar should include your pet's name, your phone number, and the city where you reside

Consider training for you and your pet

Training for pets can strengthen your bond, increase sociability, and help you avoid problem behaviors
There are 2 main types of trainers: classic trainers and positive trainers. We suggest comparing 3 to 5 trainers in your area before choosing one. Observe a class and find one with a style that suits you and your home.

Want personalized services?
Home Assistant Gold can help!

Personalized, dedicated move-in expert

Talk or text with the same person every time
Get 24/7 support when you need it most
Schedule and arrange moving services on your behalf
Expert in coordinating moving services - moving companies, security systems, everything you need!

Schedule work and quotes for your to-do list

Helps line up repairs from inspection report
Arranges key tasks so new home is ready for move-in
Get $100 off handyman services when you join

Expertise in every move; cross town to cross country

Coordinate the utilities; cable, water, gas, sewer & electric - it's different in every city
Makes sure the timelines work - home closing dates, moving company arrival and more

Limited availability.
Sign up today!

Call for your membership of

Porch Home Assistant Gold

(844) 314-1347

Porch is committed to making sure you're happy with every job, whether it's done by a pro from Porch Services or a recommended pro from the Porch Pro Network. Learn more

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Handyman project

Verified review

"Our handyman showed up on time and was very professional. Put up some new racks in our baby's room and fixed a couple small things around the house."

Darya B.

Chicago, IL