Make sure that your dog has proper identification on them at all times—your dog should wear an identification tag at all times. The tag should have your name and contact information as well as possibly your pet’s name. Some cities require that the dog wear their license at all times as well as their rabies tag at all times. Check with your local animal control for details.
Follow local laws for vaccinations and license registration. Most dogs are required to have a current rabies vaccination, which protects both you and your dog. Often your local shelter will have information on where to obtain low cost vaccines and can also let you know which are required in your area.
Keep your dog on a leash when they are off of your property. It protects your dog from traffic, other dogs and dangers, and ensures that you are able to control them at all times.
Spay or neuter your dog. Sterilizing your pet will help to keep them healthy. Some of the benefits include easier care, better behavior, better health and no unexpected pregnancies. Please see the chapter entitled “Healthy Dogs: Myths about Spay/Neutering” for more information. Your local animal care center is a great resource for finding low cost clinics for altering your new dog, if they were not already fixed when you adopted them. Puppies as young as six months old can become pregnant or impregnate other dogs.
Provide appropriate and regular veterinary care. Choose a great “regular” vet for routine check-ups, vaccinations, etc. and also locate your closest emergency veterinarian for when you need them. Twice yearly visits to the vet are a great idea—they will provide a baseline for what to expect. A month before the visit, start assembling questions about behavior or health so that you’re prepared when you’re finally with your veterinarian.
Give your dog nutritionally appropriate food and constant access to fresh water. Consult with your veterinarian about the right kind and amount of food for your dog. Many common problems (hyperactivity, loose stools, gas, etc) can be solved with proper nutrition. Read the label of your dog’s food the same way that you would read the label on your food. Avoid food with meat by-products (feathers, hooves, eyes, etc).
Exercise and socialize your dog. Not only does spending time with your new dog forge a bond that will last a lifetime, it also teaches your dog about you, your expectations and your needs. It will also teach you about your dog, their expectations and their needs. Exercise is good for the both of you! Studies show that people with dogs have lower blood pressure, lower blood cholesterol levels, higher rates of survival after serious illness, fewer doctor visits, better mental health, less stress, less depression and overall better health.
Give your dog proper shelter. Having a doghouse in the yard in addition to access to your home is great. However, dogs should not be left outside for long periods of time. They are pack animals and need to spend time with your family—their pack. Leaving them alone in the yard makes for a bored, lonely dog, and can often lead to destructive behavior.
Train your dog. Plan on taking your dog to a basic obedience class. Teaching them good doggie manners is essential to making them welcome in your house and in your neighborhood.
Be loyal to and care for your dog. Nobody is perfect, nor is any dog. Please be sure that your expectations of your new dog are fair and reasonable and know that almost any behavior issue can be helped. If you are ever struggling with your pet, contact Found Animals, your veterinarian, or your local animal care facility for advice.
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