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Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world – and for good reason! They’re adorable, they’re ten out of ten companions, and they provide us with unconditional love. But if you’re planning on getting a dog, why not consider adopting? You don’t need to buy a dog when there are already thousands of loving pups out there in need of a loving home. If you do decide to adopt a dog, here are a few steps that you should take to prepare yourself and your home, so that everything is ready to welcome them into your life with open arms!
Choosing a Rescue Dog
There are plenty of rescue dogs out there and you couldn’t possibly adopt all of them. So at some point or another you are going to have to whittle down your options and choose the right one for you. Start by considering what breeds could fit in well with your lifestyle. Consider the size of house you have – if you have a small space, chances are that you’re a better match for a small dog than a large dog. Think of how active you are and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to walks. If you’re relatively inactive, you’re going to provide a better quality of life to a dog that requires less exercise than one that requires lengthy walks. If you are weak, you could do with a weaker dog who doesn’t pull so hard on the leash and is easier to control. If you have allergies, you should consider a hypoallergenic breed. Once you have a breed in mind, visit a few different dogs at the shelter. You could get to meet some potential adoptive pooches and see how you get on with them.
Preliminary Steps
Once you’ve chosen a dog, you’re going to have to fill in paperwork and people from the shelter may have to check your home over to ensure that you can provide the dog with a comfortable quality of life. You may have to pay a fee to take the dog home.
Registering at a Vet
The shelter should be able to tell you whether your dog needs any immunisations, whether their worming and flea treatments are due, and whether there is any other immediate veterinary care that your pet requires. Regardless of whether your vet needs to see a vet immediately or not, you should make sure that they are registered at your local veterinary care centre. This will make making appointments easier when necessary.
Taking Out Insurance
All dogs should have insurance. An insurance policy will ensure that veterinary care can be covered if your pet requires treatment and care for an illness or injury. You won’t have to worry about finances to assure that your dog will always receive the best quality care possible. Browse different policies and opt for a premium that you can afford on a monthly basis.
Purchasing the Basics
There are some basic items that you should purchase in advance of bringing your pup home. This can include bedding (so that they have their own, comfortable place to sleep), bowls (for food and water), food, treats, and toys. This means that they have everything they need to lead a comfortable lifestyle as soon as they walk through the door!
Introducing Them to Their New Home
Introducing your pet to their new home can be relatively hard work. But it’s more than worth the effort to allow them to settle in properly. They will take a little time to familiarise themselves within their new surroundings and to let down their guard. Consider taking some time off work to supervise them throughout the days. You can get them used to being asked to be let out into the garden. You can ensure they are not worried. You can also remove the chance of them feeling abandoned and lost when left alone in unfamiliar surroundings.
Having Patience
Do not snap or shout at your adopted dog. They may display undesirable behaviour at first, but there are better ways to combat this than to scare them or punish them. Instead, use tone of voice, treats and rewards for good behaviour, and time outs to steer them in the right direction.
Adopting a dog is a hugely rewarding experience and you can rest sound knowing that they have a great life to look forward to. Hopefully, the above advice will help you to prepare for your new canine companion as best you can!