Bringing home a new dog is always a happy occasion. But if it’s your first time taking home a new bundle of furry joy, you will need to prepare yourself and your home accordingly.
Making the right preparations can help your new dog adjust to your home easier. You may be ready to receive their presence, but always remember that your dog may not be as comfortable as you at first. Whether you are getting a new puppy or adopting an older dog, it’s best that you make the following preparations:
1. Consider obedience school
Dog board and training are popular among Jacksonville, FL residents because it helps pets become obedient while bonding with you at the same time. Obedience school will also help your dog get along with other dogs, which will make your walks and vet visits more manageable. If you have no experience training dogs, consider enrolling your new pet into obedience school for a better learning experience.
2. Go pet shopping
Before you take home your new dog, make sure you have everything he or she needs. Head on to your local pet store and buy all of the dog necessities such as:
- Dog food
- Food and water bowls
- Leashes
- Collar
- Dog bed
- Dog treats
- Chew toys
- Shampoo
- Dog clothes (optional)
Check with the adoption center or the breeder to find out what type of dog food you should buy.
3. Schedule vet visits
If this is going to be your first pet, you should find a veterinary clinic that is close to your home. Set the schedules for your dog’s check-ups and vaccines (if still applicable) so you can keep track of your pet’s health. It’s also imperative that you get all of the paperwork from the adoption center or the breeder, so you see what shots they’ve already had.
4. Establish a structure
Dogs need a daily structure to supplement their house training and adjustment period. As soon as your new furry friend comes into your home, start following a structure. Feed them around the same time every day (but not at exactly the same time) or walk them on regular schedules (but again, not at exactly the same time), etc.
Having a regular schedule lessens your dog’s separation anxiety. However, changing their routines once in a while helps them understand that you are not going to feed or walk them at the same exact time every day.
5. Don’t cuddle them
Having a new puppy in the house may be exciting, but you need to ensure that they still have enough space to acclimate to their new surroundings. In the first few weeks following their arrival, give your pets equal amounts of attention and space. Make sure everyone in the household knows this, too, s you can avoid stressing the dog out with excessive cuddles.
Having a new pet at home is a beautiful milestone. But before your new best friend comes, making the right preparations. This can help the whole transition period become easier for you and your dog.
