Checklist25 items

New Pet Essentials Checklist

Printable checklist of everything you need before bringing your new pet home. Includes Laguna Woods-specific requirements.

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Food & Water

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Food bowl (stainless steel or ceramic recommended)

Water bowl (or fountain for cats)

Age-appropriate pet food (puppy/kitten formula)

Training treats (for dogs) or healthy treats

Airtight food storage container

Sleeping & Comfort

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Comfortable pet bed

Crate (sized appropriately for adult size)

Soft blanket or towel

Pet carrier for transport and vet visits

For Dogs

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Adjustable collar with ID tag

Leash (6 ft recommended for training)

Harness (especially for small breeds)

Poop bags and dispenser

Chew toys and interactive toys

Puppy pads (for potty training)

For Cats

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Litter box (1 per cat + 1 extra)

Unscented clumping litter

Litter scoop

Litter mat (to catch tracked litter)

Scratching post (vertical and/or horizontal)

Interactive toys and wand toys

Cat tree or perch

Grooming

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Brush appropriate for coat type

Nail clippers or grinder

Pet-safe shampoo

Pet toothbrush and toothpaste

Ear cleaning solution

Health & Safety

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Pet first aid kit

Flea and tick prevention (ask your vet)

Enzymatic cleaner for accidents

Baby gates (to block off areas)

Bitter apple spray (deters chewing)

Laguna Woods Requirements

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Dog license application (required within 15 days)

Schedule rabies vaccination (required by law)

Microchip registration

First vet appointment scheduled

Plan for spay/neuter (required by 6 months in Laguna Woods)

Where to Get Supplies in Laguna Woods Area

Pet Stores

• Petco - Mission Viejo
• PetSmart - Laguna Hills
• Pet Supplies Plus - Aliso Viejo

Licensing & Registration

• Laguna Beach/Laguna Woods Animal Services
• Phone: (949) 497-3552
• Online: cityoflagunawoods.org

Pro Tips for New Pet Parents

• Don't buy everything at once - Start with essentials and add items as you learn your pet's preferences
• Keep receipts - Pets can be picky; you may need to return or exchange items
• Pet-proof before pickup day - Secure loose wires, remove toxic plants, and block off unsafe areas
• Schedule your vet visit first - Many items (like flea prevention) should be vet-recommended
• Buy adjustable collars - Puppies and kittens grow fast!

Got Everything? Schedule Your First Visit!

Once you've brought your new pet home, schedule a wellness exam at OC Vet Animal Hospital. We'll make sure your new family member is healthy and answer all your questions.

Book Appointment Call (949) 688-1233