There are a few considerations you need to make before bringing a dog into your house, whether it be through the adoption of an adult dog from a shelter or the purchase of a cute little puppy.
By ensuring that you are as prepared as possible, you can make the process easy and stress-free, and before you know it, your new four-legged furry buddy will feel right at home. Although it can be an exciting time, it is also one that can be nerve-wracking for the both of you.
Make sure you have enough supplies
Just like children, dogs require supplies. These include a water bowl, a food bowl, a lead or harness for walks, a collar and identification tag, a bed from Pawpedics, and toys and a water bowl and food bowl. If you take them out in the car, you might want to think about getting dog seatbelts or barriers to keep them contained in the trunk of your vehicle. This is especially important if you take them on long trips. Depending on how old they are and whether or not they have been toilet trained, you might also want to get them a kennel and some puppy training pads.
Consider the issue of feeding
You are literally spoiled for choice now that so many distinct kinds of dog food are available on the market in this day and age. Some pet parents are now adopting raw food diets for their canine companions. Before deciding on the ideal kind for your dog, it is in your best interest to investigate the many options currently available. Talk to your veterinarian if you are unclear which option to go with because they will be able to offer you guidance on which option is ideal for your breed of dog. Be certain that they are never without access to fresh, clean drinking water, and do not forget to give them some tasty goodies!
Discuss duties
Make sure that you have talked about and agreed upon how to handle the duties that come along with owning a pet before you bring your dog into the house. It can be a lot of effort, especially in the beginning when you are just getting started. Because of this, it is essential to have a conversation about who will be responsible for what: who will be walking the dog, who will be in charge of feeding it, and who will be the one to get up in the middle of the night to let it out so it can go to the bathroom? It will be much simpler and less likely to result in fights if you already know in advance who will be responsible for what.
Put certain ground rules into effect
Some households believe it is best to let their dog have free reign of the house, allowing it to roam wherever it pleases, even sleeping on the furniture and using the bathroom whenever it likes. The preferences of the other families would be for them to either remain downstairs or refrain from sitting on the furniture. Either option is great, but before you bring the dog into the house, you should definitely establish some ground rules. When it comes to training a dog, especially a younger one, consistency is necessary in the training process.
Organize a vet
The last thing you want is for your cherished canine companion to fall ill, forcing you to scramble to locate a veterinarian with an opening in their schedule. Immediately after you bring them inside, or perhaps before you do so, make arrangements to see a veterinarian. Make sure they are within a reasonable distance for you to reach in the event of an emergency. You are going to have to see them frequently for checkups, immunizations, and, of course, if they are sick. If it is required, you may also discuss with them treatments for fleas and ticks as well as weight management strategies.
Because you will have taken care of all of these preparations before bringing your new four-legged friend into your home, there will be less anxiety for both of you, and you will be able to concentrate on getting to know the newest member of your family.
