Have you decided to adopt a puppy from the shelter? If you have, then congratulations! Giving a dog a new home is one of the most exciting things you can do. Based on a study by the ASPCA or The Humane Society of the United States, approximately 3.2 million shelter animals are adopted each year (1.6 million dogs and 1.6 million cats).
It’s amazing how many people are willing to give furry beings a new home. We know that you are excited about introducing your furry animal to the rest of the family, but you need to make some preparations before you take them home.
As a responsible pet owner, you need to ensure that your puppy gets the best start in its new life. Here are a few things you need to prepare to help your new best friend easily transition to their new home.
1 - Prepare Your Home for Your New Puppy
Before picking up your new best friend, the home must be clean and puppy-proofed. Puppies tend to be playful, so you need to secure your home. Put away toys and small items that they can bite and chew on. Wrap chair and table legs, and hide any cords. Secure any low-hanging cloth, like tea towels, curtains, and tablecloths.
If you have any plants in your home, make sure it isn’t hazardous to dogs. Cover any small spots in your home that they can fall into. Block access to the pool area and ponds. Also, hide meals that they can easily reach.
Set up a living space where they can settle and get used to their environment. Keep in mind that puppies won’t be able to identify any safety hazards, so it’s up to you to remove them. Doing so will help your puppy smoothly adjust to his new home.
2 - Get All the Essentials They Need
Once you’ve puppy-proofed your home, it’s time to prepare the essential things they need for a happy and comfortable life in their new home. You can create a checklist for these items before you start shopping. Here are some of the basic items:
- Dog crate - When your puppy first comes home, they won’t know the house rules. Crates are helpful for house training. It limits access to the rest of the house while they learn other rules. Crates are also a great way for them to feel safe in their new home. You can also use such crates to transport your dog from one place to another. Make sure to purchase a crate based on the size of your dog.
- Dog collars - Purchase small dog collars and leashes for your pet. This way, you’ll be able to walk them safely. Make sure to use an easy walk harness as well.
- Dog food - Don’t forget to stock up on high-quality dog food for a happy and healthy pet. Purchase puppy food since it is formulated for young dogs, and change according to your dog’s age and needs.
3 - Connect with a Qualified Veterinarian
Puppies are like babies—they need constant attention and care. One great way to check their health is to bring them to the vet. Before you bring your puppy home, look for a qualified veterinarian in the area.
Final Thoughts
Having a new best friend is exciting and fun. They are a small addition to your family that will be a meaningful part of your life. To ensure that they are happy and well taken care of, make sure to check the list we created above.
Purchasing new dog collars in Dubai can be tricky. You only want the best for your puppy. Luckily, we at Pickles DXB only offer the best dog leash, dog collar, and dog harness in Dubai.