Whether you’re about to get a new puppy or are thinking about adopting an older dog, you have to prepare for a lot of work ahead. Many people just assume they’ll be able to figure out how to take care of their new pet, but it can be a lot harder than you think. From breed specific care requirements to special diets, health problems, and avoiding behavioral issues, there’s a lot to pay attention to. Here are some dog care tips to keep in mind before you even purchase your dog.
Researching Your Pet
It’s important to remember that even if you’ve had a dog in the past, you’re probably going to have to learn a few new tricks. Many of us grew up with some incorrect assumptions about training, feeding, and other aspects of pet care, and we need to correct them. Some of us have never owned a dog before, or it’s been long enough that we don’t really remember the specifics. Either way, it’s vital to do your research.
Different breeds will have different care requirements (from the nutrient balance they need to the amount of exercise they need), and older dogs will have different needs than younger ones. If you adopt a pet with special needs, such as one with a food allergy, you’ll also have to learn about those. It may seem challenging, but you’ll be surprised at how far a little bit of time spent learning can take you.
Plan For The Future
Think about your ability to provide the kind of care your new dog will need – not just now, but in the future, too. Will you be likely to move to an area where it’s difficult to find apartments that will accept dogs? Will you be able to offer the time and affection a dog needs even through job changes, family changes and your dog getting older? Many families and individual owners make the mistake of assuming that since they’re in a situation where they can care for their dogs now, they’ll be able to do it forever.
Then, college students graduate and must find new jobs and housing, divorces occur, and all kinds of other situations disrupt their lives. Their dogs end up being ignored, shuffled off to other family members, or sent to the shelter in the hope that someone else will adopt them. A dog won’t be a cute puppy forever, and you may not have the same living or income circumstances forever, either. Make sure you’re dedicated to providing care as your pet ages and as your life changes. This can affect the breed you choose, or whether you get a dog at all.
Make Sure You’re Prepared
Too many people bring their new pets home before they have everything they need. This results in a scramble for food, toys, and other supplies, and some unexpected expenses. It can be costly to get a new pet, especially a puppy in need of vaccinations and checkups. Take the time to budget carefully before adopting a dog, and make sure you have a good supply of food, toys, first aid supplies and other basics in the house in advance.
Then, you and your new pet can just pend time getting to know one another. It’ll be more pleasant for both of you, and your dog will settle in better. Plus, you’ll be able to make sure that you have the right supplies to keep your dog happy and healthy – not just the ones that are convenient. You can avoid food switching and other situations that could cause problems down the line.
It’s Not Just About You
Unless you’re the sole owner of the dog and the sole person providing care, the decision about getting a new pet isn’t only yours. Even if you feel like you’re capable of doing all the caretaking, it’s polite to talk to any roommates or family members in the same house. After all, they’re going to be affected by your dog and by how well you care for your pet. If you get an animal you’re not ready to handle, they might end up being the people who take care of it. To avoid any misunderstandings or arguments, it’s important to talk to others who’ll be affected. It’ll help keep the peace, and you’ll be able to make sure you’re making the right choice.
Remember to explain the right care to others, as well. Some people will give your dog well meaning treats that could be bad for your pet’s health, and others just won’t know what to do. While your pet should be your responsibility, there’s a good chance your family members or roommates will interact with him or her while you’re away. So make sure that your friends and family know how to treat your pet – especially if you have a dog with allergies, food sensitivities, or other special needs.
Get A Vet In Advance
Most new dog owners don’t bother to line up a vet until they need one. With a puppy, it’s often when their new pet needs his or her first shots, or when neutering is suddenly an emergency situation. An older animal from the shelter or another family may not see the vet until an illness or accident requires it. This isn’t a good situation to find yourself in, and usually results in choosing a vet by convenience or low cost. After all, no one is ever ready for a pet emergency.
Instead of leaving things until the last minute and possibly putting your dog’s health on the line, start out right by choosing a vet as soon as you get your new pet, or even before. Talk to other pet owners you know and find out which vets have treated them the best, which ones are the most knowledgeable, and where you can find a vet who doesn’t charge high rates, but still offers quality care. Remember, the health of your pet isn’t something to be a cheapskate about.
The right vet will be friendly and caring, willing to communicate with you about your pet and his or her health, and will explain things in terms you can understand. If you’ll be using a practice where your pet may see different vets each time, be sure that you trust all of them to give you quality care, not just one or two. Also, make sure that the counter staff and any veterinary techs are also qualified and helpful. Doing this homework before you get your new dog or puppy will save you a lot of headaches and heartache later on.
Make sure you know what to do to care for your dog, and you’ll be ready, no matter what happens. A happy, healthy pet starts with a good background and a willingness to do what it takes. So, learn about your dog’s care before you adopt.
