• Nadine Whittal, dog trainer writes:
So, you’ve done your homework, researched the different breeds of dogs, chosen the dog you want, picked up your puppy and are on the way home. What’s next?
There are many people who believe that that’s all there is to it – pick up a puppy and the process is now over. They would be wrong. As a new dog owner you now have the responsibility to ensure that the new addition to your family is as well cared for as humanly possible.
Step one to ensuring that your puppy is healthy, and remains that way, is a trip to the vet. At the vet, your puppy will be given a good check to ensure that all is right and well. Importantly, they should also get vaccinated. There are three sets of vaccinations that a puppy should go for and each of these vaccinations help to prevent puppies from picking up and spreading disastrous diseases like parvo or rabies.
You really should not take your puppy to a dog park, dog school or near any strange dogs until they have had at least two of their three vaccinations. You never know if other dog owners have followed the same protocols as you, and you definitely do not want to accidentally expose your pups to any unprotected areas without them being vaccinated.
A visit to the vet is also good for the puppy to learn that the vet is not pure evil and can be trusted to look after them. Take some treats with you to the vet and ask your vet to treat your puppy. Just taking your puppy to the vet to weigh them and ask the staff to treat him/ her is an excellent way of teaching your dog not to fear the vet.
The next little bit of animal husbandry is conducting your own pseudo ‘vet check’ on your dog. This is just regularly running your hands over your dog’s body so that he or she learns to accept this touch. It also allows you to get used to and notice any changes in your dog’s body. You can keep an eye on any lumps or cuts you find and make a decision on whether a trip to the vet is needed or not.
Whilst these may seem like tiring exercises, they are really useful for avoiding any future issues with contagious diseases and to prevent you puppy from trying to remove your vets face with his teeth.
