A Quick Guide for Preparing to Bring a Dog Home
Dogs are brilliant animals that can offer you a lot of love and companionship, and it’s easy to see why they are one of the most popular choices for a pet. Not only can they help to combat feelings of loneliness, but they can also help you to get more exercise when you take them out for walks, offer some sensory comfort through cuddles and petting, and have been said to help ease feelings of anxiety and depression. However, you need to make sure that you can show your dog just as much love as they show you, so making sure that you are prepared to welcome them into your home is key. Below is a brief guide highlighting some of the key things you need to do to achieve this.
Create a Space for Them
Your dog will take some time to get used to its new surroundings, and at times they might feel nervous or want to retreat somewhere quiet where they can feel safe. This is why it’s a good idea to create a space for them in a part of the house where they can enjoy a moment of peace if they become overwhelmed. In this area, you should place their bed and perhaps their food bowls nearby if this is suitable. Some toys and other accessories that might bring them some comfort would also work well here. You could do this in the corner of your bedroom, a utility room, the study, or another part of the house where it is usually peaceful.
Register Them with a Vet
If you can manage to do this before you bring your dog home, this would be ideal, as you can then book an appointment for a check-up within the first week. If this isn’t possible, do register your dog with the vet as soon as possible so that can do this, as it’ll help to give you peace of mind that they are in good health and get any advice and tips from the vet if you need them. Look for vet clinics like Easy Vet, which have locations all over America, as they offer wellness plans and affordable healthcare to help you manage these expenses more effectively.
Remove Any Toxic Substances
Certain foods and plants can be toxic to dogs, so it is worthwhile taking the time to go through your property to make sure that there is nothing that could harm your pet. This includes cleaning products, which should be securely stored in a cupboard that your dog will not be able to get into. Alternatively, you could look into purchasing dog-friendly cleaning products if you want to take that extra precaution. You should also make sure that the house is clean and free from any clutter that could be a choking hazard or injure your dog.
Stock Up on Food and Accessories
Finally, make sure that you have plenty of food, treats, and toys for your new dog to enjoy as it settles into its new home. Playing with your dog can be a good way to build trust with them and forge a healthy relationship, but their toys can also provide them with entertainment when they are bored as well.
If you are planning to bring a dog home anytime soon, use this quick guide to help you prepare for their arrival.