Have you been browsing through online photos of dogs for adoption and been enraptured by a pair of big brown eyes or spotted coat? At the Humane Society of New York, we know the feeling. We’re passionate about finding forever homes as quickly as possible for all our canine guests. Adopting a dog can certainly bring joy into your life. However, it will also mean a significant change for your household.
Before taking your first foray into dog ownership, there’s a lot to think about. Here are a few considerations to start with.
Budgeting for Your Dog
Being a responsible dog parent requires being financially prepared to care for your pooch. Aside from the expense of healthy food, dogs need regular veterinary care and vet bills can quickly add up. Unless you’re adopting a puppy, chances are that your new companion will be spayed or neutered before you welcome them into your home. If not, then you’ll need to factor in the cost of this surgery when they’re old enough.
Dogs need to be vaccinated against diseases and should have an annual checkup at the vet clinic. Illnesses and accidents are inevitable, so be prepared to pay for medication, tests, and even surgery. Some breeds of dogs are more likely to develop specific ailments and, of course, your pet’s health needs to be monitored at they enter their later years.
There can also be the expense of replacing personal property or professional training if your canine companion has some destructive actions. Puppies are notorious for chewing what they shouldn’t and need to be house trained.
Training Your Dog
Perhaps you’re planning to adopt an adult animal that, hopefully, will already have good habits. Even so, training is needed to make sure that new dogs know the rules and feel comfortable in their new environment. Dogs want to please their owners and need to understand what behavior is acceptable and what is not. Training is critical to provide year dogs with the security and love they’re looking for.
There are many choices when it comes to training your new pet. Attending obedience classes with your new pup is always a good move and can be a lot of fun because you learn in a group with other new dog parents. There are online videos and books available as well, and you can enlist the services of an expert trainer too.
Feeding Your Dog
Pets need proper nutrition and there are a great number of choices when it comes to pet store dog food. Online recipes are available if you are interested in cooking for your pooch. Your veterinarian can provide advice on the best food for your dog, considering their age, developmental stage, breed, health status and any other factors.
Your canine friend should expect to enjoy some treats too. These are essential to motivate your dog during training sessions. Puppies can also benefit from having special chew treats when they’re teething. Take the trouble to read the ingredient list to find healthy treats and be sure to give them in moderation. It’s not good for dogs to hold out for treats instead of eating their regular diet.
Grooming Your Dog
Some dogs need more grooming than others. For example, especially if your pet has a long coat, then regular grooming is important. While you can find a professional groomer, you might consider investing in a set of clippers and learning to do this at home. Some options for bathing include your tub, a professional groomer, or a do-it-yourself dog wash.
Brushing and bathing your dogs, cleaning their teeth, and trimming their nails are all essential aspects of routine grooming. Good grooming will keep your pets clean, healthy, and looking and feeling their best. Plus, the time taken for this activity will strengthen your bond with your dog.
Exercising Your Dog
Your pooch needs regular exercise. Not only will activity help maintain their physical health, but it will provide enough stimulation to keep them well behaved and happy. Daily walks should be part of their exercise routine. When planning your route, keep in mind your pet’s age and stamina. Seek out new places, parks and walking paths to encourage your dog to look forward to outings. Exercise should consist of more than just walks. Find other ways to exercise your pooch, such as playing fetch, agility coursework, or swimming.
Being Prepared for Your Dog By paying attention to training, nutrition, exercise and grooming and making sure you can afford veterinary care, you’ll be well positioned to bring your new dog home