Last updated on August 11th, 2020 at 02:15 pm
What to do when bringing a new dog home
Dogs are blessed with many traits that humans find irresistible! However, making the necessary adaptations to your home, family, and lifestyle can be stressful.
“A dog is the only thing on Earth that loves you more than you love yourself”-Josh Billings.
Dogs love a cozy, comfortable, and safe environment. More like adopting a baby itself, dogs need care to make them feel comfortable and loved. Dogs are pack animals and hence, devoted to their families. Based on the climate and conditions at home, the family has to decide whether the dog should live primarily indoors or outdoors.
The outdoor kennel should be shaded from the sun and protected from the wind. Vets recommend that they are brought inside or provided with a heated room during the winter and cold days. Your friend is likely to pant excessively in a hot climate. A regular supply of clean water keeps him comfortable and prevents dehydration. Whether the dog is indoors or outdoors, he/she should know the boundary restrictions and trained to avoid digging, excessive barking, etc.
Environmental dangers are another thing to look out for.
Hazards to be checked out
- Keeping them away from medications, supplements, cleaning supplies, and harmful foods.
- Remove poisonous plants and flowers from the lawn
- Foods that humans consume are not always safe for pets, so chocolate, nuts, and many seeds should be kept away from your dog.
- Toxic cleaners like detergents, fertilizers, insecticides, weed killers, soaps, and antifreeze should never be stored within reach of pets.
The furry friends are to be treated the same way we treat our little ones, with optimum care, tenderness, and caution.
These canine friends will be part of our life, the moment they are adopted, for about 10-15 years, and the results are truly rewarding! From offering companionship to the lonely souls, a playful partner for the kids, to safeguarding the house and surroundings from intruders, this furry friend gives new meaning to life. However, adopting it and making them part of the family can be very expensive.
Responsibility has to be taken to give him the best care, special feeding containers, and space in your home. Though some consider the smaller breeds like Toy, Miniature, and Teacup as fashion accessories, it should be noted that they are real, breathing animals that need to be loved and cared for despite the size.
“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”- Roger Caras.
From feeding them to socializing, playing, and grooming, dogs need us for everything. Veterinarians and other specialists train, groom, and provide medical care to them. Though often costly, the best care for these selfless creatures is necessary for their health and well-being. At times, situations may arise that require expensive, immediate veterinary care, so purchasing pet insurance for them is recommended.
Some small dogs may also require more substantial space due to their energy.
A responsible owner should ensure that the dog has
- Regular vet check-ups and vaccinations,
- Is protected from fleas, worms, and ticks
- Is de-sexed
- Has current identification tags
The owner needs to abide by the licensing and leash laws for the area and train them to obey commands. Also, each dog should have a healthy and nutritious diet.
Pedigree Vs. Mixed Breed
Pedigree dogs are prone to frequent health issues. A dog of mixed breed that is microchipped is ideal for people leading a busy life as regular visits to the vets can be reduced. Indeed, as Mark Twain said “If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man”.