The r/AnimalsBeingDerps community is, without a doubt, one of the main places to show off photos and videos of animals derping out. It focuses on lighthearted content that’s a lot of fun and has been bringing smiles to people’s faces since 201. It’s doubly fun if you sneak in a few derpy photos during a short break at work or school. Sharing is caring, so make sure your pals see some of the most awesome dorky canines, too.

Bringing a dog home (derpy or otherwise… though we think all dogs are essentially derps, though some learn to hide it better) is no easy feat. It’s not as simple as picking up a water bowl, a chunky bag of kibble, and calling it a day. I reached out to the PDSA for some tips on taking care of puppies at home. Oh, and just so our resident cat-loving Pandas don’t feel left out, I also got some advice about raising kittens, too.

PDSA Vet Anna Ewers Clark told Bored Panda that all of us should think very carefully about bringing a puppy, kitten, or any other animal home.

“Taking on any pet is a big responsibility, but taking on a young dog or cat can be an even bigger commitment,” she said. “Make sure you do your research before you start searching for your new pet. Saying ‘no’ once you’ve fallen in love with a beautiful young pet can be extremely difficult—so it’s best to make sure you’re fully prepared before you start looking,” Anna explained that the more effort we put in before opening the doors of our homes to pets, the smaller the chance of heart-break or things not working out.

First, you need to consider your pet’s welfare needs. Think about how the pet will fit into your lifestyle when they’re fully grown, not just tiny, adorable balls of cuddliness.

“You’ll also need to look for a responsible breeder or rehoming center and be prepared to teach and train your new pet as they grow into an adult. If you’re not sure that you want a puppy or kitten, you might want to consider finding an older pet from a reputable rehoming center instead,” PDSA Vet Anna shared.

Anna stressed the fact that the puppies (and kittens!) that we choose to bring home with us have to be at least 8 weeks old. This way, they’ll be more independent and not as reliant on their mom. “Puppies and kittens should be at least 8 weeks old when they come home with you. At this age, they should be able to care for themselves and be eating a puppy or kitten diet, without needing any milk from their mother.”

Meanwhile, when you bring your puppy home, you’ll need to help them settle in and feel comfortable in their new home. They should feel relaxed, at ease, free to show you their lighthearted, playful, and derpy side.

“When you bring your puppy or kitten home, you’ll need to help them settle into their new home. Being away from their mum and littermates for the first time can be worrying for them,” Anna said, adding that there are some ways to help them adjust and become part of their new family in their forever home.

“Make sure you have the ideal home for your puppy and kitten, You’ll need to buy the supplies they need, check your house is safely arranged, for example moving furniture to create secure, hazard-free places for them, and pet-proofing your garden. Pheromone diffusers can help calm your new pet and make them feel more at home,” Anna suggested.

“You should also try to keep things as familiar as possible when you first bring your puppy or kitten home. Ask their breeder/ rehoming center about the food they’re eating and their daily routine. It’s also a good idea to take a bed or blanket with you go to visit your new pet. Then you can bring this home with them, providing them with a familiar place to sleep surrounded by the smell of their mother and littermates.”