While owning a dog is as fun as it is rewarding, there are things that should be known before you find the perfect pooch. There are kennels and even dog houses that be used as temporary housing structures, but your pet is really going to need full access to your home. You should be in good enough health to be able to take your pet on walks, give treats, and participate in the occasional vigorous play session. Aside from the standard stuff that comes with pet ownership, there a few other specific things that also need to be handled. So, learn these 10 things every woman needs to do before owning a dog and you will be all set.
1. Make Your Home Completely Pet Proof
Having a clean home that is virtually free of clutter is not the same as having a home that is safe for a pet. Objects that seem harmless might be potentially lethal to a curious dog. Keep potted plants out of reach of your dog, as well as essential oils, dried herbs, and medications. Realise that dogs are great jumpers and climbers so you might need to put all harmful substances overhead in a cabinet. Be careful about having open windows and even unlocked doors as a new pet won’t know what their boundaries are. Having a pet insurance policy is great for taking care of pooches who have gotten themselves in a jam but maintaining a pet-safe home will prevent animal-related medical emergencies from occurring.
2. Have a Nearby Veterinarian Lined Up
Whether you adopt your dog from a shelter or are working with a dog breeder so you can handpick a puppy from a newly arrived litter, pets need to keep all of their shots up to date. Your new pet will need a thorough wellness check-up, and potentially some vaccinations. Know which vets are a short distance away, as well as which ones offer late night and emergency services. You can get a new puppy insurance policy around the same time that you find a vet so that you know precisely what will be covered.
3. Purchase a Variety of Dog Foods and Treats
Some dogs will eat everything you put in front of them while others have more discerning tastes. For new pet owners working with shelters and adoption agencies, it is common to get lots of helpful information on your dog’s likes and dislikes. Even then, trying out different dog foods won’t hurt. Try getting small quantities of dog foods from different manufacturers before going ahead and stocking up.
4. Make a Plan for Pet Grooming
Dogs come with long shaggy coats, short fur, and completely hairless varieties. Regardless of the amount of fur your dog has on its body, owners have to keep them well groomed. Professional pet groomers stay heavily booked, so get your dog scheduled for an appointment as quick as possible. If you intend on grooming your pet yourself, get all of the tools in order well before you bring your dog home. You might need to get special attachments for your vacuum cleaner in order to eliminate pet hair from your home when your dog sheds heavily. Sometimes dogs can cause homes to have a peculiar odor due to their heavily shedding coats, so get some odor neutralising spray specifically made for pet owners.
5. Compare Your Pet Insurance Options
Dog owners have expenses like food, toys, pet medications, leashes, collars, and treats. While you can get coupons to reduce the cost you pay for most pet supplies, insurance for dogs is likely the best way to save on some pet care expenses. Your dog is going to need to go to the veterinarian for check-ups to stay healthy. On occasion, your pet might need medications, extra testing, and minor surgical procedures. When you get a pet insurance quote through Everypaw, you can review premiums and policy details conveniently online. Getting proper pet insurance for dogs is not just about price; it is about getting a policy that is comprehensive.
6. Decide Where Your Pet Will Sleep and Make It Comfortable
New dog owners generally find it comforting and endearing to snuggle into bed with their pets immediately after getting them. If you plan on sleeping with your pet for eternity, this isn’t such a bad thing. But there are logical and practical reasons for providing your dog with a designated sleep area. First, it is more hygienic. Remember, your dog doesn’t wear shoes. So, if you take your dog on regular walks throughout the neighborhood, well, you are going to end up with an entire ecosystem in your bed. Second, it is important for all pets to have a place of their own. When your pet is sick, pregnant, or adjusting to a new animal being introduced to your own, designated pet sleep areas can make all the difference in the world.
7. Take Time Off to Learn Your New Pet
Now, you don’t have to take two weeks holiday in order to suitably introduce your pet to your home and become acquainted. On the other hand, a lot of your spare time would be best used to get to know your dog during its first couple of weeks at home. You need time to establish a routine with your pet. Time is necessary to observe your dog going around the home, correct negative behaviors, and present rewards for good habits.
8. Spoil Your Dog – Within Reason
New pet owners often go a little crazy when preparing to bring an animal into their homes. While setting up a cosy area for your pet to sleep, buying food, shampoo, and other pet necessities are fine, you should wait before you buy every toy in the pet aisle. Your dog might prefer toys that squeak, rubber chew toys with plenty of texture or plush stuffed animals. Get to know your pet and try out different toys over time. Soon enough, you will know what your new furry friend’s preferences are.
9. Get a Handle on Proper Dog Training
As most new dog owners are aware, dog training can be a long and difficult ordeal. There are breeds of dogs that are better for first-time pet owners than others. Even the size, gender, and age of a dog can impact dog training progress. Learn some basic commands, the proper way to effectively discipline your dog, and where to get additional help before getting a new pet. This is true whether you intend on purchasing a tiny puppy or a fully-grown dog.
10. Interview Various Pet Walker, Sitters and Dog Kennels
At times, all pet owners face situations where they are unable to care for their pets temporarily. You never know when your boss is going to send you away to a business conference, or when you are going to learn about your cousin’s college graduation at the last minute. Have dog kennels and pet sitters in mind, so there is always someone you can trust available to watch after your pet.
Women can get conflicting and inaccurate advice on dog ownership, from which gender they will be most compatible with to questionable dog training tips. Listen to the experts on pets, including veterinarians. Your own experiences with your pet are going to be unique to you and your new friend.
