When you make the decision to adopt an animal, it is important to consider the impact it will have on the animals who already live with you. Introducing a new animal to other animals in your home can sometimes pose challenges. In most cases, animals can learn to peacefully co-exist, but it can take time for everybody to adjust and settle into a comfortable routine.

For example, a dog that is accustomed to chasing cats outdoors must be taught that he is not allowed to chase cats inside your home. Similarly, a cat that is used to being the only cat in the home may need to learn how to share her space with other animals.

Here are some tips to help make this transition a little easier:

• Spay or neuter all of the animals in your home. This will prevent unwanted pregnancies and will also help reduce behavior and health problems. (Most metropolitan areas have low-cost spay/neuter clinics. Check with your local shelter for a list of clinics in your region.)

• Don't expect your animals to become best friends immediately. It usually takes several days (and sometimes weeks) for animals to adjust to one another before they can comfortably and peacefully interact.

• Establish clear, fair boundaries and rules for your animals. Firmly but kindly teach them your expectations.

• Supervise the animals' interactions before you allow them to freely interact on their own.

• Keep the animals in separate areas when you are not at home, until you are comfortable allowing the animals to interact without supervision.

• Create "safe" areas for each animal to seek refuge from stressful interactions. (For example, a cat interacting with a new dog may feel more comfortable if he can survey the new situation from the safety of a tall "cat tree". A dog may benefit by having access to a large crate in a safe, quiet location.)

• Provide each animal with his own sleeping space, comfortable bedding, separate food and water bowls, and a litter box (for cats). Be sure each animal knows which space belongs to him.

• Do not tolerate aggressive behavior, harassment or fights. (A cat may swat or hiss during a stressful encounter, which is perfectly understandable, but unprovoked attacks and/or all-out fights are unacceptable and may call for intervention).

Information provided by PetShelter Network