Do You Have A New Puppy?
Is this your children's first dog? If you have had dogs in your life before, it is no wonder that you have gotten a puppy for your family. The time must have arrived that you felt your children were responsible enough to care for a dog, and now you have a new member of the family.
From taking your new pet to an animal hospital for pet vaccinations to setting up some rules at home, here are some ideas that might help you to fully enjoy your new puppy.
A Visit To An Animal Hospital - Your new puppy might soon be making a new best friend, his or her veterinarian. Do you have one already? If not, there will more than likely be several animal hospitals in your area that will provide the care your dog will need over the years.
On your puppy's first visit to the animal hospital, he or she will be thoroughly checked to make sure there are no unseen problems. In addition, vaccinations will be given that will prevent things like distemper and rabies. You'll probably be amazed how well your little dog will do when the shots are administered. After all, the vet has the training and the experience to do the job rapidly and with as little pain as possible. Then your doggy will get lots of love afterward, not only from the vet but also from you, right?
Hopefully, your children can go with you for your pup's visit to see the vet. He or she will more than likely give the kids pointers that will help your new family member flourish. For example, the vet might remind your children that only pet-friendly treats should be given.
Children And Pet Rules At Home - You have some pretty big decisions to make regarding your pet. They might not seem important now, but they will be important later on. For example, will you let your pet sit on the furniture? Maybe he or she will be allowed to sit on the family room sofa, but not on the living room sofa. Your children will be amazed at how rapidly the new puppy learns his or her limitations.
Your children will also learn that having a pet requires some work. Depending on how many children you have, consider setting a schedule for the puppy's water bowl and food bowl to be filled. Do you have a doggy door for your pet already? If not, consider putting one in. Until a doggy door is in place, remind the kids that after naps and after meals are good times to let the puppy out, and to praise the pup in a big way when he or she takes care of business outside when nature calls. For more help, contact a company like Apple Valley Animal Hospital.