Have a pet, be it a cat, dog or ferret isn't just about petting them. They are animals, they have emotions and they have personalities. While they may not be your own flesh and blood, but they needs and you have responsibilities. We just brought home our second puppy and having an addition to the family is always an exciting time, but even the smallest and cutest fur babies need special care and a few essential items to make them feel at home.
1. A quality dog food is essential to a dog’s wellness and happiness. A choice adult dog food should include a minimum of 18% protein, 5% fat and an assortment of 24 key vitamins and minerals. A prime food reduces and firms stool and offers a variety of health benefits. Always confer with your Vet concerning the timing and quantity of feedings, don’t just rely on the manufacturer’s suggestions.
2. A quality collar is indispensable for any dog irrespective of size or breed. A collar should fit snuggly yet allow two fingers to slip comfortably between the neck and collar. No collar is complete without identification tags providing vital information about your pet and how to contact you should they ever get lost.
4. Every pet needs a leash whether they exercise in the yard or never leave your side when let loose. It is illegal in most states to walk your dog in public places without a leash so you should always have one on hand. Apart from the law, leash walking is an excellent way to establish trust and discipline with your canine comrade.
5. Every fur baby needs a place to lay their head that they can call their own. While we love to have them share our beds when they are small and cute, we must establish boundaries early on before they are too big to share sleeping spaces with the family.
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6. Flea and heartworm preventatives are important items that every pet parent should provide to their doggie on a monthly basis. Heartworm is a fatal disease that can be prevented with a monthly pill or topical treatment. Flea preventatives are available in a wide variety of forms from the grocery store to the pet superstore. Heartworm preventative requires a prescription from your vet, but flea control items can be purchased over the counter. There are products on the market that contain flea and heartworm preventative in one monthly topical treatment making it more convenient than ever to care for your pet.
7. Basic obedience training is a must have item that helps your dog to be a well adjusted canine citizen while providing you with the benefits that come with a dog with manners. Poor canine manners are one of the main reasons that dogs end up in shelters. Most behavior problems can be reduced or eliminated with training and consistency.
8. Last, but not least on the list is a good first aid kit. A sheet or blanket, splints, gauze and forceps are amidst the items that you should have on hand in case of a canine emergency. There are many over the counter drugs for people that can be lifesaving for your dog and make a perfect addition to your kit; however, many can be deadly. Consult with your vet to create a life saving first aid kit for your best friend.
Having a pet is a lifelong committment and one that is well worth the effort. But take these tips from the day you bring them home and it will make the road you are about to travel that much smoother.
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