Welcoming home a pup is an incredibly rewarding experience. While the first couple of days that you and your new furry pal spend together seem exciting, it can also be a stressful time. Everyone knows that taking care of a new dog is a lot of work. However, not a lot of people realize that there is a great deal of research and careful planning that goes into it.
If you’re thinking of taking a pupper home, here are some factors that you should take into consideration.
Pet-proof your home
So you’ve finally decided to take a dog home? Good for you! It’s no secret that dogs need an ample amount of space to run around and play. The thing is - are you equipped to provide a living space for your pup that would accommodate their needs? If you’re unsure how to make your home pet-friendly, here are some tips to ensure that your pup is living safely inside your home.
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Familiarize yourself with things that might be toxic to your pup
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Make sure hazardous materials are out of reach
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Always cover your trash bins
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Ensure that bathrooms are closed
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Be wary of safety hazards such as cords or wires
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Avoid leaving things lying around
Now that you have a four-legged pal living with you, it only makes sense to make sure that your living space is safe and void of things that may harm them. And, if all else fails, you can always designate a dedicated space for your pup. It’s important for dogs, as inherently territorial creatures, to have an area that they could claim and call their own. Having a dedicated space for your pupper would also give you peace of mind whenever you are away from home.
Health and wellness essentials
What kind of health and wellness essentials are we talking about? Well, to be honest, this can mean a lot of things. Health and wellness essentials can refer to a pup’s diet, nutrition, grooming, and exercise requirements. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a quick checklist:
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Diet and nutrition
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Healthy dog food
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Food bowl
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Water bowl
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Dog treats
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Grooming
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Brush
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Wipes
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Dog shampoo
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Dog toothbrush & toothpaste
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Others
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Leash & collar
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Microchip/ID
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First aid kit
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Toys
Puppy food and treats
One important thing to remember when it comes to your dog’s nourishment is that there should be no compromise. After all, you only want the best for your pup’s health, right? Before choosing the right puppy food or treats, make sure to consult your veterinarian about the best type of dog food for your pup’s age, size, and activity levels. Don’t forget to give them a lot of water too!
Look for a reputable veterinarian
Trust us when we say that your pup’s veterinarian will be your best friend when it comes to taking care of your pup. Put simply, veterinarians are an essential part of your pup’s overall well-being as they have the necessary knowledge to keep your pup safe and healthy. When choosing a vet, make sure to book an initial visit to see if they have the necessary credentials to care for your best pal. It’s also a great time for you to check if the clinic is clean and well-organized. You can also see how your pup interacts with the vet and if they seem comfortable enough around them.
