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Life is going great. You have a new romantic interest in your life, you have the best pet in the world, and you're ready for the two to meet. The thing, as much as you like your new partner and love your pets, sometimes they aren't going to feel the same way about each other. Luckily, there are things you can do to help the process of introducing your pets and your partner go more smoothly.
Tell Your New Partner What To Expect
It's important that you're upfront about your pets. In fact, it's a good idea to mention your pets in any dating profiles you have. Many people are allergic to animals and some people just don't like them. Chances are you'll want to know information like that in advance. Even if your partner loves dogs and cats, it's a good idea to let them know what to expect. Tell them how many pets you have, what kind they are, and how big they are. Does your dachshund tend to nip if you get too close to his face? Warn your partner. Maybe you have a Great Dane puppy that is still learning not to jump on people. Warn your love so they don't get knocked over. The more information you provide, the better your partner can interact with your pet.
Introduce Your Pet To Your Partner's Smell First
Dogs and cats both get used to their new surroundings via smelling, and that means new people, too. If possible, bring home something that belongs to your partner before introducing them to your pets. This way, your furry loved ones will be able to get used to the smell first, which makes them feel like they already "know" the person a little when meeting. Every time your pet sniffs the item, reward it with its favorite dog treats or cat treats, which helps it to create positive reinforcement with your partner's smell.
Meet Outside the Home if Possible
Sometimes, animals are territorial. If your cat isn't already used to being outside, it's ok to skip this part. However, it is especially important to meet outside first if you have a dog who is territorial over its home and over you. This way, it feels safer on neutral ground first. In fact, if your dog has a favorite trail or park, meet there. This way, it's in a happy place and relaxed. Remember, though, you're still introducing your pet to a new person, so be sure to keep it in a well-fitting harness and on a sturdy leash while you make the introductions. If your dog seems comfortable, have your partner toss a tennis ball or frisbee for it to play with and go from there.
Prepare Your Home for the Introductions
Cats are likely to hide from new people and can easily do that in a number of places within your home. What you might not realize is that your dog needs a place where it can go to escape new stimuli as well. Dogs usually can't fit into the little nooks and crannies that cats do, which means you'll need to prepare your home by creating a space where your dog can go to feel comfortable if needed. The easiest way to do this is to get a kennel for it and fill it with a dog bed and some of its favorite toys. If your dog does go to the kennel while your partner is over, do not allow your partner to follow your pet.
Teach Your Partner How To Approach Your Pet
The way that your partner approaches your dog or cat is very important. Never allow your partner to force interaction. If you have a cat, simply ignore it when you walk into the room. When a cat feels like it isn't being actively pursued, it is more likely to come and investigate on its own. If you have a dog and your partner wants to approach it, have them do it in a crouching or seated position. When a new person looms over a dog or cat from a standing position, they can view it as a threat. Never rush introductions and ensure that your partner acts and behaves normally around your dog. This ensures your pet that the new person is safe and that you are comfortable with them as well.
Maintain Your Pet's Routine
Animals thrive in routine. Your pets like to eat at the same time every day, expect their stuff to be where it always is, and prefer to be walked at the same time each day as well. When you are lost in a new romance, it can be tempting to spend more time away from home than normal or to otherwise disrupt your pet's routine. While you shouldn't be tied to the house, consider how your new routines could change your pet's happiness levels. For example, if you know you're going to be home later in the evening, it is a good idea to hire someone to give your pet its evening walk or meal at the same time. This way, it will not begin to associate you leaving the house (or your partner coming to it) as something negative.
Above all else, remember that you need to be patient with both your partners and your pets. Chances are that your pets will come around as soon as they recognize that your partner is not a threat. On the flip side, if your partner has not spent a lot of time around animals before, then they may need time to adjust as well. In time, your partner and pets will likely come to love each other.
