Page 307 - (DK) The Dog Encyclopedia

BECOMING A DOG OWNER

Becoming a dog owner

A dog can be a wonderful addition to your family, but bringing a new pet into your
life is a responsibility that requires preparation and planning. Consider what kind
of dog will best suit your needs and make sure your home is a safe environment.

FIRST CONSIDERATIONS Would you prefer a male dog or a bitch? abandoned or neglected, so staff will be
Before buying or adopting a dog, you Dogs tend to be more affectionate with eager to see that they go to a loving and
need to have a clear understanding of people but can be easily distracted during protective home. You may have to fill in
what you are taking on. A dog can live training. Un-neutered dogs can be an application form, attend an interview
for up to 18 years and you need to be aggressive. Bitches are often considered (possibly with other family members), and
committed to caring for your pet over calmer with children. have your home inspected by the staff before
his entire life span. What age is best? A puppy will learn to fit they allow you to adopt a dog. In return, you
Ask yourself some pertinent questions: in with your family’s routine as he grows can ask questions and meet dogs suitable for
Do you, or anyone else at home, have the up but at first he will need extra care and your lifestyle. The staff will advise you on
time to train and play with a puppy? Can should not be left alone for long periods. care, veterinary, and behavioral issues.
you afford to keep a dog? Is your home If everyone is out of the house all day, you
environment suitable? Do you have other may be better off adopting an adult dog. LEGAL POINTS
pets or very young children? Is anyone in A common way to acquire an adult dog You are responsible for your pet’s welfare
your home allergic to dogs? is from a rescue center. Some rescue shelters and, in many countries, there are laws to
Think carefully about what kind of are run by welfare charities and place dogs ensure that pet owners care for their
dog you want by finding out about of many sizes and ages. Others specialize in animals properly. Essential duties include
suitable breeds. Even if you are drawn particular dog breeds that have special making sure that your dog has a safe place
to a particular breed for its appearance, issues, such as greyhounds after the end of to live, good food, and plenty of company.
bear in mind that temperament is more their racing career, or dogs with specific care As a dog owner you also need to make
important than looks. Could you cope and training needs, such as Dobermanns certain that your pet will not cause harm
with an active dog with lots of energy? (see p.176) and Staffordshire Bull Terriers to himself or to other people or animals.
Do you need a dog that is good with (see p.214). Most breed societies run a breed Take out pet insurance before taking
children? Large dogs often require a lot of rescue service. ownership of a dog. Insurance is essential for
care and training and food, all of which At a rescue center the dogs’ temperaments illnesses and injuries, and covers costs if your
can be expensive. Would a smaller dog will have been assessed. Many of their dogs pet is lost or dies, or if he harms a person,
better suit your lifestyle and surroundings? have had difficult experiences, such as being other animals, or property.

CHECKLIST FOR A SAFER HOME

Indoors Outdoors
■ Keep hard floors dry, and towel-dry a wet ■ Close off any gaps in hedges or fencing
dog promptly. or under gates.
■ Keep outside doors shut; install a stair gate. ■ Move or get rid of toxic plants.
■ Block any small gaps behind or between ■ Make sure your dog has sufficient shade
furniture. in the yard.
■ Fix frayed electrical cords. ■ Keep garage or shed doors shut to keep
■ Fit child locks to cabinet doors and drawers. your dog away from machinery, sharp or heavy
■ Use trash cans with secure lids. tools, or chemicals such as antifreeze, paints,
■ Put cleaning chemicals away and out of reach. and paint thinner.
■ Keep medicines in the cabinet. ■ Keep poisons and fertilizers locked up or on
■ Get rid of any toxic houseplants. a high shelf.
■ Check floors and low surfaces for small ■ Keep your dog away from areas where poisons
or sharp items. or slug pellets have been used; dispose of dead
animals that have eaten poison.
■ At holiday times, keep your dog away from Preparing for arrival
fragile decorations and lit candles. Find a safe ■ Never leave your dog alone with a barbecue— Introducing a new dog into your life is an exciting
place for him to hide from fireworks. hot coals and sharp skewers can cause injury. experience, but it comes with big responsibilities. Taking
the time to prepare your home and yard will make his
arrival safe and enjoyable for you both.

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