What to do if someone gives you a dog?
It’s best to give your newfound friend a quick visit to the vet so that you’ll know if they have any medical needs. You should also dog-proof your home and help them build a routine. A few toys, dog beds, and feeding essentials will also go a long way. You should also take time to socialize them.
What do new dog owners need?
It’s always an amazing day when a new pet is added to your family! However, getting ready for their new furry friend’s arrival can be challenging for first-time pet owners.
There are a lot of considerations and preparations one needs to make if they’re adopting a new dog - whether it’s gifted or by personal choice.
Generally, you need to check their current health status and give them their basic needs. All of these we’ll discuss in detail in this short article.
Vet check-up
A quick vet visit will help you and your new furry friend in the long run. Having them checked out can give you an idea about how to care for them.
Some breeds are susceptible to certain medical conditions. But, if you learn about what your dog might have in the future, you can take the necessary actions to delay the effects of these medical issues.
Here’s a list of some popular dog breeds in the UAE and GCC area and their common medical issues:
|
Breed |
Common Medical Problem |
|
Golden Retriever |
Cancer, hip dysplasia, and heart disease |
|
German Shepherd |
Hip dysplasia, bloating, and myelopathy |
|
Shiba Inu |
Allergies, patella luxation, and dental issues |
|
Shih Tzu |
Eye problems, allergies, and kidney disease |
|
Chihuahua |
Dental issues, hypoglycemia, and obesity |
Establish a routine
Dogs love having a routine, and they become mentally healthy when they can predict the activities they have for the day.
With this in mind, it’s best if you can set a solid schedule of the following essential dog activities:
- Potty breaks.
- Feeding time.
- Walks/exercise.
If you have a day job, you can buy automatic feeders and water dispensers to feed them the right amount. Monitoring their weight and food consumption is essential to keep your pup healthy.
For their tools for exercise, you can buy them a walking harness to keep them safe and comfortable while you’re both out. Having an accessible toy like a tugging ball can also help your dog spend their energy for the day so they won’t get destructive during sleeping time.
Socialize your dog
Exposing your newly adopted dog to other people and pets can help them have more control over their impulses.
You can take your dog to a nearby park or cafe where other animals might be. Slowly introduce them to other people, too, so they’ll learn to act appropriately and not be disruptive around strangers.
