Before Getting a Dog by Vena Goodwin

Why do you want a dog?
It’s amazing how many people don’t ask themselves this simple question before they get a dog. Don’t get a dog as it’s the’ thing to do,’ or because the kids want one; don’t forget a dog may be with you 14 years. Many of the shelters homeless dogs are victims of irresponsible people who allowed their pets to breed, or who were obtained by people who didn’t think through the responsibilities before they got lt.
Please don’t make the same mistake, think before you adopt, sharing your life with a dog can be very rewarding but you have to be willing to make the commitment of time, money, responsibility and love for the life of that dog.

Things to Consider.
Taking on a dog is a lifetime commitment, will your working hours and family life allow you enough time to care, exercise, and train and socialise your dog, on a daily basis? Do you have availability to exercise your dog in your area? will your pocket sustain the extra costs which can be substantial (especially vet bills) there’s food, vaccinations, regular worming, grooming (depending on breed) and boarding fees if you go away.ls your accommodation suitable, no good having a dog if living in a high rise flat with no garden, if in rented accommodation check with your landlord first.

What Type of Dog?
A puppy will require a lot more time and attention, you will have to housetrain a puppy, and it will need to go out every 3 to 4 hours, most puppies chew anything they can get hold of, and in teenage years can do a lot of damage if left unattended.lf you have a busy household a puppy is not always the best choice. The size of dog will also have to be considered, dogs like terriers, collies ECT. Are very active and require a great deal of exercise to keep them calm, while some of the larger dogs are quite happy to laze around.

Commitment
Consistency, is the key to success you have taken on a lifelong commitment so it’s no good saying (it’s to cold) oh! Its raining or I´m to tired today, come rain or shine your dog needs daily exercise to be fit and healthy as well as for their mental wellbeing, and remember you must clean up after your dog in public places, so if the thought of picking up dog poo, doesn’t appeal to you perhaps a dog is not the pet for you.lt is best to neuter your dog, as there is enough unwanted dogs around, and rescue centres don’t need any more.

Home Rules.
IF your family is going to be involved, work out beforehand whose doing what like who will walk the dog, feed and groom him ect. You will also have to establish which areas are off limits, where he will sleep (he will need to have a space of his own where he can feel safe and secure ) will he be allowed on the furniture the whole family will have to abide the rules, or the dog will become confused. Start from day one and gently but firmly establish yourself as the alpha, as dogs can consider themselves equal or greater than humans.

Children.
Remember your new dog will need time to settle into his new home and surroundings, make sure children don’t pester or tease him, children must also learn that the dog will need quite time, and there not to disturb him during this time, dogs can become snappy if there constantly pulled about and teased. They will also have to be reminded, not to leave gates or doors open or your dog will escape. Never leave young children unattended with your new dog any thing can happen, also if your children have friends round to play, remember they will probably be running around and noisy, it’s best to keep the dog separate from them.

Travel.
lf you go on holidays and cant take your dog with you, arrangements will need to be made for him to go to boarding kennels check out several kennels first look for cleanliness, exercise area ,ask how often the dog gets exercised per day, security, what they feed ,and your dogs living quarters, if the kennel is near you give them your vets number also, just in case and if your dog is on any medication leave written instructions and check staff are willing to give the medication make sure your happy with the setup and staff before you entrust your dog to them. You can take his own blanket and toys to make him feel more at home. You could have qualified home sitters if preferred, either way it will be expensive.


Be Prepared.
Before you bring your dog home you will need to get a lD tag, with your address and phone number, fitted collar, lead, choose one about 4 to 6 feet long, make sure its comfortable and easy to hold, (nylon can burn your hands if your dog pulls to start with, chain leads with leather strap will also hurt your hands. depending on dog. you will also need bedding i.e.: the plastic type, or the quilted type ones filled with beans are not a good idea as if chewed the beans will go everywhere. Water and food dishes (, large dogs are better to have there dishes raised of the ground,) safe toys, and something to chew. Food, you might want to wait and see what he is being fed on, some kennels give a few days supply, and might be able to sell you a bag.

Homecoming.
IF you have other dogs its better to arrange that they first meet on neutral ground lf there are cats in the house make sure they can escape the dog if need be, avoid jealousy by giving each pet equal attention, make time to teach your new dog his toilet place in house or garden.Dont be tempted to be with him constantly the first few days, practise leaving him for short periods 10- 15 mins to start with, even if you only go into another room, this will help to avoid separation anxiety.

Adjusting.
Your new dog will need time to adjust, give him plenty of playtimes every day, (if adult) walks or jogging will tire him out. Keep him on lead for at least six weeks, and until you’re sure he will come back when called.

Family.
Your dog is a member of the family, so treat him like one, and don’t leave him outside for ages unattended as they can soon learn how to escape, make sure family and visitors close all gates and doors.

Training.
Like children dogs need to be taught right from wrong and know their boundaries they need order, like routine as they are pack animals they need a leader, teach from the start that you are pack leader as he needs guidance protection and assurance. Never hit him, teach through a consistent and positive attitude reward for good behaviour and make him sit or wait at feeding time, keep children away from his feeding dish. Remember, your dog may not have been socialized and will most likely carry some baggage; you must keep a watchful eye on him and correct any bad habits Enrol in a good training club which both you and your dog should enjoy, The rewards you will reap will be well worth the effort.