Welcoming a new dog

AGENCIES

Responsible dog ownership involves more than food, water and walks for ‘Fido’. It includes providing it with an enriched environment, love, respect, patience and taking care of it as a unique individual. It means understanding that great nutrition is the basis of great health — getting it started with proper natural nutrition and holistic care will allow it to thrive and achieve its best health. Your dog will definitely thank you for it!

So, what needs to be done before you bring your new dog home?

Family commitment: Before the new dog arrives home, the entire family must be committed to its care. It must be decided who will feed, walk, groom and look after the new dog in advance.

Shopping trip: Prior to bringing your new dog home it will be necessary to make a shopping trip! You must purchase all necessary food, treats, food bowls, bedding, crates, grooming tools, toys, leash, collar, and ID tags in order to welcome your new dog into the family.

Natural pet food: Take this opportunity to start your dog off with excellent nutrition in the form of natural pet food. All ingredients in natural pet food come from plant, animal or mineral sources and these foods cannot be highly processed or contain synthetic chemicals. Read the ingredients before you select a food.

Dog-proof your home: Move breakables or ‘chewables’ to higher ground (including your favourite shoes!), move electrical cords, plants or any other hazards out of reach. Any area of the house that is ‘off-limits’ should be identified before the dog comes home.

Ready the yard: Make sure there are no holes in the fence or areas where a dog could escape. Make sure the pooper-scooper is out of the package and ready to go!

Find a vet: Find a vet who agrees with your natural approach to caring for your new dog. Inform them you are interested in natural solutions and products to remedy conditions whenever possible. It is important to have a new dog examined shortly after bringing them home to establish this veterinary relationship and update them on medical care.