By Neil Buckland
(Bullcitydogs photo of Lucille)
Adopting your first dog can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. So many factors need to be taken into consideration before you make such a major commitment. You must ensure that the decision to get a dog is well-informed, and that you will have the time and patience to look after your pet properly. You also need to make sure that your home is pet-proofed and ready for the dog’s arrival, and that all the family are prepared to accept and embrace the pet, no matter how many changes this may bring.
Making your Home Safe
Having a pet is very much like having a child, and so the same precautions should be undertaken when preparing your home for a new dog. Be sure to keep dangerous items out of reach such as chemical-based cleaners and any medication you may have, and be wary of chewable loose wires and hazards. You should also ensure that doors and gates are secured at all times, so that there is no possibility of escape. Dogs should be taught as soon as possible which areas are theirs, such as their bed, and which areas are banned, such as the sofa or the bedroom.
Dogs and Children
Some adult dogs may not be comfortable with kids. If you have children and are planning on adopting an adult dog, make sure you get all the information about the dog’s behaviour when an assessment was made at the animal shelter. Children should also be prepared for the arrival of a new pet and be involved as much as possible, as this will ensure they don’t develop jealousies or feel left out. Teach the child early on the correct way to behave around the dog and encourage them to get involved in activities such as the walking and feeding, as this will give them a sense of responsibility from a young age and also help them to feel included and to bond with the new pet.
Dog Tags
It is essential that you get your dog a collar and tag so that you can be easily reunited should they go missing. They can be engraved with all of your essential information, which will ensure that your dog can be linked back to you as soon as possible should they escape or go missing. Tags can be fashionable or discreet depending on your preference and often come in a range of colors and designs.
Be Ready
Make sure you don’t leave things until the last minute so you’re not in a mad dash to get things in order before you bring your new pet home. Ensure that you have purchased and prepared all of the essential items ready for your dog’s arrival, including food, bed, toys, shampoo, lead and other accessories. It’s often helpful to make a checklist, just so that you can be certain you’ve not forgotten anything important. Check with your local pet retailers and vet to see if the type of dog you chose has any special requirements so you are not left unprepared. This is especially important as dogs can easily pick up on emotions and you need to ensure that bond is secured straight away.
Now that you are ready, enjoy your new dog. May you have many years of love and joy together!