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If you’re considering getting a puppy, it’s important that you look into dog ownership and know exactly what you’re getting into before bringing one home. Dogs are living beings and need time, effort, love, and care. Here are just a few things you need to know and take into consideration beforehand!
It’s a BIG Commitment
Getting any pet is a huge commitment that needs to be taken seriously. They’re not toys and they’re not disposable. Dogs often have a life expectancy between ten and twenty years, so your pet is likely to be around for a long time. You need to make sure that you can cater to their every want and need for the foreseeable future!
Adopting
Generally speaking, you should consider adopting rather than buying a dog. There are so many dogs out there who need loving homes. Sure, you might not always get a puppy – it could be a grown dog. But all dogs grow up so you’ll have a grown dog soon enough anyway, even if you do get a puppy. Make sure you know your adopted dogs’ specific preferences and needs and make sure you’re ready to provide everything the pooch needs.
Vaccinations
If you do get a puppy, they may need vaccinations. If you have an older dog, they still need vaccinations on an annual basis. This protects them from illness and disease. Make sure your pup is registered and taken to the local vet to ensure all vaccinations are up to date!
Training
All dogs need to be trained. This ensures good behaviours and prevents them making a mess in the house or running amuck. Puppy Training classes are often extremely effective and can help to socialise your dog too, making sure they get on with other pooches.
Insurance
All dogs need to be insured. You never know when they will need medical care and veterinary costs can quickly go through the roof. Insurance ensures your dog can have any treatment, medication or surgery they may require. Going without insurance puts your dog at risk, as you may not be able to fork out for emergency costs or ongoing care should your dog need it.
Walking
All dogs need to be walked daily – no matter how big or small. Look into exactly how much your dog should be walked according to their breed, their individual requirements and any other suggestions made by your vet.
Time
Dogs shouldn’t be left alone for more than a few hours. You need to make sure that you can commit sufficient time to your pet to ensure they aren’t being neglected. If you work hours and hours, having a dog may not be best for you or the pooch!
These are just a few areas you need to focus on when it comes to getting a puppy. Of course, there are plenty of other areas you should take into consideration. But these should get you started in the right direction!