Page 29 - Creature Companion October Edition

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“HAPPINESS STARTS WITH A WET

NOSE AND A WAGGING TAIL”

By Sandeep Lad*

TIPS TO HELP YOU BECOME A levels, grooming needs, trainability, food recommended by a certifi ed
BETTER PET PARENT and temperament. Also, if it’s your trainer or vet. Prepare in advance by

If you are considering bringing first time, refrain from buying a fancy keeping collar, leash, toys and other
a canine companion into your breed. things so that your pet’s transition
life, think seriously about the into your home will be smooth one.
commitment. Owning a dog is not 4) ZERO IN ON A BREED

just a joy and privilege but a huge You can finalize which breed you 8) DOG-PROOF YOUR HOUSE
responsibility as well! would want based on the list of Prepare your home for the new
qualities you want in your pet. Do arrival. Puppies are just like babies.
This doesn’t have to mean 24/7 some research like attend dog shows, Move expensive items, breakables or
attention and physical proximity but talk to dog trainers or breeders, ‘chewable’ to a higher ground. Make
you need to make your pet a part of friends and family who own a chemicals, electrical cords, and
your life. particular breed you are interested sharp equipments inaccessible to
in. This will give you a better idea. curious paws and snouts.
1) RECOGNIZE THE COMMITMENT
Before making a decision that a 5) CONTACT ETHICAL BREEDERS 9) SELECTION OF A VET AND
dog is right for you, make an honest AND /OR DOG TRAINERS VACCINATION
assessment – are you ready for Get referrals to responsible breeders or Choose a vet after considerable

the financial, emotional, and time trainers. Do not hesitate to ask ques- research or get referred to the
commitment that owning a dog tions and clear whatever doubts you right one. Make sure you have a
requires? may have. Get right information about comfortable rapport with him. Share
the breed and breeder’s practices. your pet’s papers and health records
2) RETHINK YOUR LIFESTYLE with him and set up a vaccination
Think about the type of dog that 6) PAPER WORK schedule.
will best suit your lifestyle. Evaluate Get the paper work right and make
all aspects of your family’s life – sure you have complete information Once Your New Member Finally
hobbies, activities, personalities etc. about the breed, fees, health of the Arrives
before choosing a breed. dog etc. from the breeder.
10) LET YOUR DOG ADJUST TO HIS
3) PREPARE A LIST 7) USHERING YOUR NEW NEW SURROUNDINGS
What type of dog would you want? COMPANION HOME He is bound to feel insecure and
What qualities would you want in Buy the necessary requisites and frightened by new faces and all the
your dog? Consider size, energy toys for your little friend. Purchase attention. He may be missing his

OCTOBER 2020 • VOL. XIII • ISSUE 9 • NOIDA | Creature Companion 29