November 12, 2020
Tips for first time dog owners
Congratulations on the decision to adopt a pet and make the world a better place. What is even better is that you have opted to have ‘man’s best friend, a dog.’ However, this decision comes with new responsibilities, and you have to prepare yourself for the task.
Where will the dog stay? What about the poop? How will you ensure that the dog has the best experience in your home? Will you carry your dog on public transport? These may be some of the questions that are running through your mind right now. Let us go through the different tips on how to handle your dog as a first-timer.
Familiarise yourself with pet laws in your country
There are many regulations on how people should handle their pets in different countries. The first thing to consider is the adoption laws that are in place. There are adoption experts that can give crucial information that you need to make your first step. The next thing you have to consider is the residential rules when you have pets. You need to know if you can have your pet roam freely in the neighbourhood unaccompanied.
The next thing you need to learn is the mandatory tests and vaccines you must give your dog. These may vary depending on the climate or whether there have been recent outbreaks. Consult widely or even visit the relevant offices to ensure that you are on the good side of the law.
Invest in a good harness
If you are a first-time dog owner handling a dog may be a challenge, especially if you are a beginner. You want to ensure that your dog remains safe as you go out shopping, visit the park and eventually holiday together. A good harness will help train your dog whenever you are on the move.
Investing in a dog harness that prevents pulling helps you handle your canine friend with ease. These also come in different designs to suit different breeds.
Treats are also essential when you are training your dog as they keep the dog motivated.
Make your home dog-friendly
Adopting a dog means that you have to change a few things in your home. For instance, you should opt for stain-resistant fabric for your furniture as you may have to deal with lots of stains.
A tiled or wooden floor is the best option when you have four-legged friends in your house. Most of the carpets you will find in the market are made from materials that cannot stand stains and odours from pets.
Store other sensitive items such as medications beyond the reach of your new companion.
Introduce the dog to the new home
The trip from the adoption agency to your home can be hard, especially when dealing with an anxious pet. The transition can be stressful as this is a new house and environment that it has to interact with. Each member of your family may want to greet the new member. However, the first interaction should not be overwhelming. Just ensure that you give the dog the attention it deserves, such that it can feel at home.
Ensure that your dog stays home for the first few days. Such an approach ensures that it gets acquainted with the place before it can visit the local neighbourhood.
Introduce your dog to the neighbourhood
When it is time for that neighbourhood walk a good start can be moving around the easy tracks within your area. This exercise helps your dog become familiar with the area. You can then go to the nearby dog park where he or she will make new friends but also be cautious as not all dogs are friendly towards each other. You can observe what other dog owners are doing to ensure that you are on the right track. Ensure that you have an identification tag as your dog might get lost.
Invest in toys
You will not always be there to play with your dog. You need to go to work and get the bills paid. Having some interactive toys will ensure that your dog is not bored while you are away. Ensure that you also schedule some time when you interact with your dog and create that special bond. Playing is not only for entertainment value; your dog also benefits from good health as obesity and other lifestyle diseases are reduced.
Groom your dog
Ensure that you groom your dog daily and reduce the chances of pests invading him or her. Old dogs have difficulty walking when they have overgrown nails. Ensure that you trim them regularly and make sure that you have the basic grooming tools in your home.
Taking care of your dog as a first-timer does not have to be hard when following the above tips. Ensure that you learn something new every day because learning never ends. Join support groups that will help you become better at parenting and share your journey with others.