5 Things You Need Before Bringing Home A New Dog

Are you bringing home a new dog? Congratulations! You are adding joy, companionship, and a whole bunch of snuggles to your family. But having a dog also brings new responsibilities. Whether you are adopting a senior pet or a brand-new puppy, these are the things you must have before bringing home your new pet.

Dog Walking Service

Taking your pup out for a walk or for playtime at the park is one of the greatest joys of having a pet. But there will inevitably be times when you can’t handle all the walks and potty breaks on your own. Whether you can’t get home for a lunchtime walk during your workday, or you need to be away from town for the weekend, having a dog walker can be a lifesaver. Before you bring your new dog home to stay, meet with a Denver dog walker to find out about how to schedule services when you need them.

Veterinarian

Veterinarians, like physicians, provide routine health care and preventative services in addition to meeting emergency pet health needs. Your new pet will need a veterinarian visit within the first week or so of coming home. Puppies will need vaccinations and will soon need with a spay or neuter procedure. Senior pets often have health needs related to aging which you will want to understand as soon as possible. Before you bring your new pet home, select a veterinarian you feel comfortable with. You may even wish to schedule a meeting with a potential veterinarian without your pet, so that you can ask questions, see the facility, meet the staff and get tips for helping your new pet adjust and settle into their new home.

Food and treats

Understanding pet nutrition is a bit complex and it is necessary to do some research before heading to pet store to stock up. Selecting the right food depends on the breed of your dog, their age. Be sure to read labels to find a food with the correct high-quality ingredients and talk with your veterinarian for recommendations. But, don’t overinvest right away. Your dog will have their own preferences and some food might not sit well with them. Purchase a small quantity of food to start and watch how your dog tolerates it before buying more. Also, be sure to purchase bowls and determine where your dog will eat. Having an established spot for feeding, and sticking to a feeding schedule is an important part of training.

A Safe Place to Sleep

Your new pet may end up napping on the couch, the kitchen rug, or in your lap. But, they also need a safe place of their own to retreat to, both for sleep and a sense of security. Crate training your pet not only gives them a place to sleep, it can also aide in potty training and preventing your puppy from chewing on household items. Depending on your needs and the size of your dog, select a crate that will help them feel safe and secure while sleeping and relaxing.

Patience and love

Bringing home, a new pet calls for a healthy dose of patience and understanding. It will take time for your pet to adjust to you and their new surroundings. It may take days, weeks and even a few months before their true personality begins to show. Plus, there will inevitably be training setbacks, including chewed belongings and potty accidents. But, with patience and commitment, you and your pet will develop a bond that will last for years.

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