Free for every shelter
The settling-in library.
Help with settling in, routines and introductions, drawn from veterinary associations and other cited organizations. General information, not individual medical advice.
For every adopter
Core pages
- 01
First 72 hours + the 3-3-3 guide
The 3-3-3 guide is a rough guide, not a medical timetable; each pet adjusts differently.
- 02
Household hazards & poison safety
Toxic foods include chocolate, xylitol (sugar-free gum), grapes and raisins, onions and garlic; risks vary by species and amount.
- 03
Your first vet visit
Arrange a veterinary appointment promptly after adoption and follow the shelter's discharge instructions. Illness or injury needs earlier care.
- 04
Introducing the newcomer to current pets
For dogs and cats, begin with separate spaces and gradual scent introductions; other species need their own introduction plan.
- 05
ID, microchip & the lost-pet page
Register or update the microchip contact details today; a chip is not a GPS tracker.
Detailed guidance for your companion
Species & life-stage guides
- 01
Puppy
Provide a quiet, comfortable resting place and a gradual settling-in routine.
- 02
Kitten
Start in one safe room with litter, food, water and a scratcher.
- 03
Adult dog
Behavior and confidence may change as your dog settles in; there is no fixed adjustment timetable.
- 04
Senior dog
Non-slip rugs and a soft bed help sore joints.
- 05
Adult cat
Offer hiding spots during adjustment; hiding must not be used to dismiss poor eating or illness.
- 06
Senior cat
Low-sided litter boxes, one on each floor.
- 07
Birds
Keep birds out of the kitchen and away from nonstick fumes, smoke and aerosols.
- 08
Horse, donkey & mule
Provide clean water and forage amounts suited to body condition and health.
- 09
Rabbits & guinea pigs (legacy stock)
Rabbits and guinea pigs need grass hay; this advice does not apply to all small mammals.
- 10
Rabbit
Keep good-quality grass hay available, with fresh water.
- 11
Pocket pets
Before you go home, ask the exact species, age and the right home setup.
- 12
Reptiles & amphibians
Confirm a written heat, lighting, humidity and feeding plan for the exact species.
- 13
Farm animals
Provide shelter from weather, clean water and a species-specific plan for compatible companions, introductions and quarantine.
- 14
Fish & aquatics
Have an aquatic-care professional confirm that filtration and water conditions are ready for the exact species before stocking.
- 15
Special-needs add-on
Before handoff, obtain an individualized written discharge plan, medication instructions and emergency contacts.