Mum, dad, can we get a puppy? Its a plea that may parents will know only too well. How do you go about adopting a dog to make suure that the dog is happy and there isn't too much upheaval in your home?
If you are thinking of adding a dog to your family, consider adopting your new best friend from an animal shelter or humane society. You'll not only get a good feeling from helping a homeless pet, you'll get an outstanding companion. The staff at these organizations carefully check the animals for sound health and good temperament. In addition, some shelter animals have had the benefit of training to develop good manners while they waited for a new home.
Through no fault of their own, a lot of great dogs wind up in animal shelters hoping for a second chance at happiness. People relinquish their pets to shelters when they are no longer able to care for them. Sometimes this is because the owner was unprepared for the responsibility that comes with caring for a dog. Often, however, caring owners struggling with life-changes or trying to cope with family tragedy realize their pet would be better off with someone else. They bring them to the shelter because they know the animal will be well cared for and placed in an excellent home.
You can find just about any age, size and breed of dog at an animal shelter. So, if you have your mind set on a puppy, a shelter is a good place to look. However, if you would like a more mature dog that is likely already housebroken, you'll also find these kinds of canines at the humane society or animal center.
Upon arrival, shelter staff carefully evaluate each animal for physical and behavioral soundness. They make note of quirks, and work with specialists to eliminate negative behaviors. Most shelters have adoption counselors who interview potential adopters to understand their needs and lifestyle.
This is nothing to worry about - the counselor just wants to make sure that so they can make the perfect match for dog and owner.
This is an opportunity for you to find out about the dogs at the shelter too. There are a number of questions you should ask the counselor.
- Why is the dog available?
- Does the dog have any behavior problems?
- How is the dog with other animals and children?
- Does the dog have any health problems?
- Is the dog spayed or neutered already?
You will find it easy to pick your new dog with this expert advice. In fact your only problem may be not taking all the dogs home with you!
Bringing your newly adopted dog home is exciting for you, but may be a little overwhelming for her. Keep her on a leash as you take her from room to room, giving her plenty of opportunity to sniff. You may want the first stop on your tour to be the backyard or wherever you want her to relieve herself. The excitement of a car ride and coming to a new place can give her the need to empty her bowels or bladder.
Dogs are creatures of habit, so the sooner you establish a firm routine, the more comfortable your new dog will become. Always feed her in the same spot and at about the same time each morning. You'll find she grows to anticipate "what comes next." For example, if you always feed her after you bring in the newspaper, you'll notice she becomes very excited when you open the door to step outside. Dogs catch on quickly.
Remember, though, the reason why many dogs are in animal shelters in the first place. If you don't have the commitment to look after the dog properly, think again.
http://www.best-pet-health.info is a resource which will help you find infomation, hints and tips to keep your newly adopted dog happy and healthy. This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links are included intact.
What happens when we die? In our society, death is... Read More
The most common dog problems:Dog Owner's commonly ask me the... Read More
"Magoo was a big, playful Labrador retriever who often got... Read More
German Shepherds were among the first dogs trained for police... Read More
Fleas are wingless, blood-sucking insects that feed on dog, cats,... Read More
Many dog owners are bewildered when they hear their dog... Read More
Tired of cleaning the cat box? Here are some tips... Read More
Your mind-set, approach and way of thinking (beliefs) are critical... Read More
Was he the world's greatest horse trainer of all time?... Read More
Domesticated cats have been gaining in popularity in the United... Read More
Boarding, Breeding, Training & Showing Stables:1. You need to fill... Read More
Many different skin problems can arise in the aquarium. thankfully,... Read More
Many people consider their dog to be part of their... Read More
Pets provide an unconditional love that requires very little on... Read More
Is there anything more cute and cuddly than tiny little... Read More
Of course, we humans use shoes to protect our feet.... Read More
Quieting a barking dog is a quick and easy process.... Read More
Dog clicker training is so much fun for both dogs... Read More
Dog House Training can be simpleTo start your dog house... Read More
Why does one breed appeal to a person over another?... Read More
Many people want to make sure their family pet has... Read More
Losing your cat is a worrying experience, use these 'How... Read More
This may come as a surprise...but if the tables were... Read More
We've all heard the phrase, "Free as a bird." In... Read More
There is a dangerous problem that horse owners should be... Read More
Adopting a dog is a lot of fun, but it... Read More
Natural preventative pet care isn't a new thing but it... Read More
Unfortunately, accidents can - and DO happen, so it's always... Read More
Have you ever been to a dog kennel and listen... Read More
1. Accidents and medical emergencies in the home happen frequently.... Read More
Puppy TrainingPuppy training can be a trying time. The key... Read More
Dogs are creatures of habit; and once they develop a... Read More
Should you seriously consider buying a dog health insurance policy?... Read More
Caring for your dogs teeth is a vital part of... Read More
Puppies have a natural instinct inside that causes them to... Read More
I'm a pariah among the dog fanciers in my community.... Read More
Parasites are organisms that survive by feeding off of other... Read More
Toys are fun both for our dogs and us. Lucky... Read More
Are you nuts? You think banging your finger with a... Read More
According to holistic veternarian Dr. Jane Bicks, the maximum life... Read More
Many pet owners often wonder if it's worth it to... Read More
"Hamsters?!" I hear you say. "Who cares about some fury... Read More
Once other animals such as cattle, sheep and goats became... Read More
As you likely know already, horses have at least 10... Read More
An essential to your dog's health is his/her regular annual... Read More
Buying a pet bird can be quite an investment. After... Read More
There is a lot of talk going on about what... Read More
My love of horses began at the age of 11... Read More
As much as you may love your cute, new puppy,... Read More
According to recent statistics, an astounding 65% of all U.S.... Read More
Pet Pet |