5 Things First-Time Dog Owners Need To Do Before Bringing Home Their Pups
Getting a puppy or dog comes with a lot of responsibilities. It is not only about having an adorable furry companion to take pictures with and show off on your social media posts, but it is also about committing your time, money, and efforts to ensure its health and safety.
If you have never owned a dog before, you have to brace yourself for all the fun and excitement as well as the headaches and stress. While there will definitely be a lot of good moments, there will also be y sleepless nights and tiring days.
As a first-time dog owner, below are some important tips to help you prepare for your canine companion:
Educate Yourself
What is it like to have a puppy or dog? How much do they need to eat? When should you take them outside to potty? Is it safe to let them play with other dogs? How to you keep them from barking and whining early in the morning or through the night?
You probably have tons of questions in mind about owning a dog for the very first time. To get answers, you can try reaching out to your family members or friends who have experience with being dog owners. Ask questions and listen to their stories to erase your concerns and worries. You can also join online forums and discussion groups dedicated to dog owners to get tips on how to take good care of your pet.
Be Ready for a Lifestyle Change
What time do you usually wake up and go to bed? Are you at the office for at least 12 hours a day? Do you like to spend your weekends or days off going on road trips? Do you often go on week-long or even month-long vacations?
One of the major adjustments that you have to make once you own a dog is to your routines and habits. If you are used to spending a lot of your time outside, you may have to start being at home more often. If you want to prevent a smelly mess indoors, you will also need to take it outside to go potty multiple times throughout the day. You cannot just leave your pet alone for an entire day while you are at work. You should find a way to be there every couple of hours to supervise it or have someone check on it while you are away to make sure that it is fed and doing well.
Go Shopping for Dog Supplies
Where do you plan to let your dog sleep? Do you have blankets or towels for when it gets cold? What can you do to keep your pup from getting bored? What kind of collar, leash, or harness should you get?
To ensure that your puppy is comfortable and safe when it finally comes home, you have to prepare the things that it needs in advance. Get a dog bed, mat, or crate, as well as blankets and towels to set up its sleeping area. Buy some fetch toys, rope toys, chew toys, and other toys so it has something to play with to avoid boredom. Do not forget to get it an appropriately sized collar, leash, and harness for walking and training.
Get a Dog ID Tag
There are many different sizes, styles, and colors of dog tags for pets and dog ID tags available these days. What should you get for your puppy? Why is it important to get one?
Dog tags for pets and dog ID tags are a must for any pet that goes outside. Made of stainless steel, wood, plastic, rubber, or other materials, they contain not only the name of your pet but also other valuable information, such as your address and contact number. In case your dog gets outside while you are not looking and runs away, anyone who finds your pup can get in touch with you and reunite you with your furry friend.
Find a Veterinarian
Did you know that dogs, like people, also need shots? Where can you get your pup vaccinated against parvovirus, rabies, and other diseases?
You need a veterinarian that you can trust to administer vaccines and consult for the health and medical needs of your puppy. In your city, you should find one that is licensed to practice and has earned lots of positive feedback from fellow dog owners. Because you might have several options to choose from, you should pick the one that is most easily accessible to your home and is highly recommended by others. You should be able to rely on them to advise you about your puppy’s vaccination and deworming schedules and other important medical matters.
