How to get your pup settled at home?
Are you thinking of bringing a puppy home? One of the first things you need to do is to get your home prepared for your pet’s stay. Apart from puppy proofing your home here a list of the basic things you need to buy before bringing your pup home.
- Collar and leash: You need to get your pup a collar that can have their name and your phone number and address. You will be attaching the collar to the leash when you take your pet out for a walk. Make sure the collar you get is the adjustable type and should be a snug fit. It must not be too tight or too loose that it slips off your pet’s neck. The correct fit would be when two of your fingers get in between the collar and your dog’s neck.
- Bedding: Initially you can start off by making your pet sleep on a warm blanket or towel until they get over the chewing phase. Once they are housetrained you can choose from a variety of dog cushions, pillows and mattresses that are now easily available in the market.
- Food and water bowls: Your puppy will require food and water bowls to drink water and eat food once they come home. You have varieties to choose from – ceramic, steel or plastic bowls that are now available in market. Whatever material you choose should be comfortable for your dog to feed from, must be easy to clean and sustainable for a period of time.
- Food and treats: Before bringing your pet home you must consult a vet to find out what type of diet should be introduced to your pup. Whatever diet you choose for your pup must meet the nutritional demands of that stage and should aid their growth and development. Any commercial dog food must be given only after the vet’s approval.
- Grooming aids: Your pup requires regular grooming to keep their skin and coat healthy and parasites and infections at bay. So they will need to bathe at regular intervals and have their coats brushed and combed regularly. Their ears need to be cleaned, nails have to be trimmed and must have their teeth brushed. Here is what you need to stock up on:
- Comb
- Cotton balls
- Ear cleaning solution
- Nail clippers
- Scissors
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Styptic powder
- Toothbrush and dog toothpaste
- Towels
- Toys – Toys are very important for dogs. It keeps them engaged and active. You can get them a variety of toys ranging from soft toys like a cute lion or a panda or chew toys which will satisfy their need to nibble on things. Fetch toys and tug toys keep your pet physically engaged. Treat dispensing toys helps to keep their mind active and engaged. Make sure that the toys you choose do not contain toxic material or contain stuff that could cause choking hazard to your pet.
It is always a good idea to consult a vet and take their professional advice.
Happy Parenting!
