Congratulations! You have a new best friend! This little furry creature nestled his way into your heart and home. Now, what materials do you need to take care of your new buddy? There are some essential purchases that you need to make at a pet store in order to keep your pet safe and healthy. Here are six key items that will keep your new pet well and happy:

1. Pet toys
Regular play with your pet will keep them fit and mentally engaged. Also, playing with your pet is quality time that you’ll cherish forever. Make sure to purchase toys like tennis balls, chew toys, tug ropes, or if you have a cat, fluffy mice balls or bell toys. Pet toys range from $3-$20 and you can find an incredible variety of them at your local pet store.

2. Pet beds
At the end of a long day, your pet needs a place to rest his floppy ears. A pet bed is next on your purchase list. They sell all different kinds of beds, from small, fluffy pillows to gigantic memory foam beds. Make sure to buy a bed that is appropriately sized for your pet. Pet beds range from $15-$50 based on brand, size, and product material.

3. Food and water bowls
Every pet needs to eat and drink! Food and water bowls are the next item on your list. Make sure to buy appropriately sized bowls for your pet, as you don’t want a tiny Chihuahua swimming in a giant water bowl meant for a Great Dane. There are a great variety of designs in these products. A handy suggestion is to buy bowls that are weighted or have a rubber bottom to prevent them from sliding around too much on the floor. Pet bowls can be acquired for around $10-$20 based on material.

4. Dog leashes
Regular exercise is a must to keep your new pet healthy. Walking your dog daily is essential for muscle and joint health. It also helps your pet socialize with other dogs and get familiar with their surroundings. To walk your dog safely, you need to purchase a good quality leash in order to lead them around. There are several different options and based on your preferences, you can get a chain leash, cloth leash, or a retractable one. A dog leash will cost you anywhere from $10-$20. They can get pricier based on color and design.

5. Litter pans and scoops
If your new friend is a cat, then you need to buy litter pans and scoops as soon as possible! You don’t need to worry about potty training your cat, as they have a natural instinct to do their business in a litter box. Make sure to buy a pan and scoop that are comfortable for you. Prices range from $15-$25.

6. Collars and ID tags
When you adopt a new pet, one of the first things that comes to mind is what you’re going to name them. Your pet immediately needs an ID tag and a collar to wear. The ID tag should contain your pet’s name, your home address, and a phone number should someone need to contact you. This is for obvious safety reasons. If your pet somehow runs off, you would want someone to find him and be able to return him to you. You can get a fancy dog GPS collar or keep it simple with the ID tag and collar that you can personalize at the pet store. The best pet tracker is a microchip but if you haven’t gotten around to that yet, an ID tag and collar is first priority. The cost for an ID tag and collar comes out to about $14-$25 based on brand and design.