Many homes received the joy of a new pet this Christmas.

But all the activity and excitement can prove to be stressful for the new family member. There are several things that you can do to make the transition easier.

Young animals are full of energy and activity but they need adequate rest. Children love to carry the new puppy or kitten around wherever they go — this can be tiring for the pet. Time should be set aside for naps.

When you bring new pets into your home, you should initially feed them the same food they are used to so you won’t cause digestive upsets.

If your pet’s doctor recommends a change in diet, do it gradually over a period of several days.

Table food is a no-no. Veterinarians see quite a few pets for digestive disturbances caused by too many treats during the holidays. Chocolate can be fatal to puppies in relatively small amounts.

The naturally inquisitive nature of puppies and kittens can lead to problems.

Be sure that decorations are placed high enough to be out of reach. Swallowing tinsel or chewing on an electrical cord could prove fatal.

Puppies also are prone to chew on plants, so be sure that greenery is out of reach.

Be sure to take your new pet in for a checkup within the first few days after getting it.

This visit should include a physical examination, testing for parasites and a review of previous vaccination dates to plan booster vaccinations.

You should get a written record of all preventive health care the pet has had at the time that you get it. The initial exam is very important — something as common as intestinal parasites can be dealt with easily when caught early, but may prove fatal if ignored.

If you follow the preceding recommendations and use a little common sense, you and your new “Christmas critter” should get off to a good start.

— Greg McGrath is a veterinarian at Cedar Lake Pet Hospital in Biloxi, Miss.