Here are several key tips for bringing a new dog home smoothly to get you started on the right foot.
Bringing a new dog home is beyond exciting. It’s a big adjustment for everyone in the house, especially if they have never owned a pet before. A pet dog is sure to bring much joy and even health to any home. Of course, it takes a lot of work to care for any canine, whether old or young. Here are several key tips for bringing a new dog home smoothly to get you started on the right foot.
Get Everyone On Board
When making this big adjustment, everyone in the family should be on board with the change. Families ought to work out what expectations everyone should have and what roles to play. Who will feed and bathe the dog? Who will take it on walks? Who will take it to the vet and play with it? It’s better to have these questions answered beforehand rather than after the fact.
Get the Paperwork
In Maryland, you’ll need to apply to your county for a pet license. You’ll also need other kinds of paperwork, including vaccination certificates, vaccine records, and more. Be sure to secure a veterinary practice you can go to for regular vet visits and potential emergency visits. Everhart Veterinary Medicine, located in Baltimore and Pasadena, are happy to welcome new patients.
Get the Supplies
Next, it’s time for the fun part. It’s time to buy all the goodies for your new dog, like a bed, food, bowls, leash, collar, toys, shampoos, nail clippers, and more. Dog-proof the house, securing electrical cords to baseboards and keeping hazardous objects out of reach. Designate a warm, comfortable space where your pet will sleep each night and ask your dog’s shelter or breeder for advice on your dog’s diet.
Give Space & Time
Finally, you’re bringing the new pet home! As much as your family may want to hover all over your newfound friend, be sure to let it roam on its own accord, sniff the new surroundings, and get well-acclimated. It may require some time for your dog to adjust fully, but in a short while, your new pet will be ready for play and become a beloved member of your household.
Give Love
The adjustment period doesn’t stop with the first few hours of your dog’s welcome party. During the first week or so, direct your dog to where it will go to the bathroom, where it will sleep, and what daily schedule it might expect. Keep an eye on it to see its habits, and correct it if it gets into anything it shouldn’t. When your dog does the right thing, though, be sure to give it praise!
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!