It is so exciting to bring a new puppy home. We get to go shopping.We take it everywhere with us and show everyone. It is exhausted by the end of each day and sleeps with us perfectly…
Then we go back to real life…
Now we have a little peeing, pooping, and sometimes chewing, nipping, and barking machine on our hands. 😇 At this point, we decide to take the puppy to a class where we can learn how to manage and train our little ball of fire. Class is so fun! We learn how to use our dog’s brain and keep them busy so they don’t eat our house….and the puppy sleeps like a rock afterwards!!!
Then real life again…
According to the ASPCA, “Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year. Of those, approximately 3.3 million are dogs…“
Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself before getting a puppy/dog:
-Do you have time to walk/exercise them at least 2x daily?
-Do you have a way for them to run their little legs off?
-Do you have 1-3 minutes 2x a day to train (at the least)?
-Who is going to help you with exercise and potty training while you are gone?
-Can you afford the food, supplies, and vet bills?
-Can you afford a trainer if there are behavioral issues?
-Where is your dog going to stay if you have to leave town?
-Are you going to crate train?
-Are you sure this is the best time in your life to have extra responsibilities?
-Do you have the time and patience to repeatedly gently remind your puppy the right ways to do things?
Pet ownership can be a ton of fun and a great blessing. A new pet can also be just like having a toddler. Have a support system in place to help you throughout your pups life and to help ensure that your new furry family member will stay with you forever. Dogs are never too old to learn new things, so choose an age and temperament that fits your lifestyle. And most of all…do your research!
Carrie Galvan CPDT
Precious K9s
www.preciousk9s.com
