So, the whole family is considering adopting a puppy from a facility within your community. But before making the final decision, it's crucial to make the following considerations:
Daily Walks are Needed
As a dog owner, you'll be responsible for making sure that they get the exercise and activity that they need to thrive as they age. Puppies need at least an hour of exercise each day, and maybe more if they've been bred for herding, hunting, or sporting.
Walking your new puppy on a daily basis will help control their weight, increase both their mental and physical health, and ensure that they don't get too lonely throughout the day.
Regular walks will also strengthen your bond with one another and encourage proper socialization skills when other dogs or people come around. You'll have to ensure that there is someone available at home to walk your new dog each day before committing to an adopting.
Kids and Dogs Can Equal Chaos
It's also important to think about how your kids will act around a new puppy, because if they don't have the proper skills to play and interact with them, chaos can quickly arise. If a young child sits on or squeezes the puppy too tight, there is a chance that they'll get growled at or bit. And if multiple children are involved, they could overwhelm the puppy and accidentally injure it during play time.
Make sure that your kids are ready for puppy life by enrolling them in a couple of dog training classes before adopting your own dog. They'll learn the skills they need to properly take care of your new furry family members, and understand how to stay safe when playing with it.
Boarding Might Be Necessary Sometimes
Once you're a dog owner, there's a good chance that you'll need to find a babysitter for times when your family wants to go on vacation or has an emergency trip to make. You'll have to get a trusted friend or family member to watch the dog for you, or you'll need to purchase boarding at a professional facility.
Either way, the expense can be overwhelming and the stress unbearable if you aren't prepared. So make sure that you've got a boarding facility, a friend, or a loved one willing to take on the responsibility of caring for your dog while you're away before committing to an adoption.
Animal Hospital Visits are Inevitable
As your new puppy ages, it's inevitable that they'll end up having to visit the animal hospital at least once in their life. They might eat something they shouldn't that gets stuck in their intestines, they'll need x-rays and possibly surgery.
If they're accidentally hit by a car or get sick for apparently next weekend, you'll need to take them in to an animal hospital for an emergency visit. So, it's in your best interest to find an animal hospital you like before adopting a puppy. You'll know exactly what to expect if an emergency arises and and you'll know what's expected of you when it comes to paying your bill and properly processing your dog. Contact a vet hospital, like Center-Sinai Animal Hospital, for more help.
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