Receiving a dog as a gift is an exhilarating experience. As you embark on this beautiful journey, take a look at some of the supplies you need to ensure that your new found friend stays happy and in good health as you forge a relationship.
A dog crate
You need to control the environment in which your dog lives, and you can do this by use of a dog crate. A dog crate not only enables you to housetrain your dog but it also helps you to curb problems such as separation anxiety from an early stage. You can also use it when moving your dog from one place to the other.
You have three prospects when it comes to a dog crate: metallic, wooden and plastic. They all come with different advantages, and they are all suited to different uses. Dog crates made of aluminum are the best as they are versatile and you can use them in the house, for travel, for flights as well as outside as they are durable and robust, thus creating a secure environment for your dog.
As you choose a dog crate, ensure that it is big enough to allow your dog to stand, stretch and move around a bit without banging the sides. It should also be confined adequately to keep your dog from using one section as a place to relieve itself. If you just got a puppy, go for a crate with a dividing panel which will enable you to adjust the size as the dog grows.
Gate and playpen
These two will help you out supervise your dog with ease. Whereas a gate enables you to keep your dog from going into particular rooms, a playpen gives the dog room to run around and play while in a confined environment. A gate is also an excellent way to keep your dog from accessing staircases where they could get hurt.
If you just got a puppy, ensure that you have a gate next to the staircase. It is advisable that you keep the gate locked at all times until your dog is old enough to walk up and down the stairs without endangering themselves which should be at about six months.
Get a gate made of durable materials such as aluminum. Wood is not a great idea as dogs tend to chew on things and they can hurt themselves as they try to get past the gate. Also be sure to make sure that the gate does not have any openings through which your dog can fit her head, else your dog could strangle itself in the process. The playpen should be sturdy enough such that your dog cannot chew on it or climb over it.
Bowls
You need at least one water bowl and one food bowl which should always be in hygienic conditions. You can get a couple of extra food bowls so that you can wash them at the end of the day, as opposed to after each meal. Research shows that a dog bowl is dirtier than a toilet seat. Having a dirty dog bowl not only predisposes your dog to illnesses but it also puts you at risk of contracting food-borne diseases.
The best way to go when it comes to choosing a material for a food bowl is stainless steel. Not only does it last years but it also doesn’t chip, thus making it suitable for a dog bowl. You can also opt for ceramic bowls but as you do this, ensure that the food bowl of your choice does not have any lead metals in it which can be hazardous to your dog’s health.
Stay away from any materials with dyes. Plastic bowls are not a good option as your dog can chew on it and swallow the splinters. Some dogs are also allergic to plastics.
Food
Introducing your dog to another food at a fast rate can be detrimental to her health. First, find out what they have been eating in their previous home and feed this to them for the first few days as you ease them into another diet. Failure to do this could lead to diarrhea and could give you problems as you try to housetrain them.
When you decide to change the food, get advice from your vet or a trusted pet store, and they will guide you on the best foods for your dog and how to introduce the foods.
Identification
You will need two tags for your dog: a rabies tag and an ID tag. If you are short on money in the beginning, you can make do with a collar fashioned from nylon or leather. It should be in such a way that you can buckle it, leaving a small space which only two of your fingers can fit. Before putting your dog in the crate, ensure that you take off her collar for safety reasons.
Getting a harness will significantly assist you when it comes to training, safety and general control for puppies aged eight months and below. It also works well with small breeds such as pugs. When getting a harness, go for one that is easy to take off and attach.
Dog backpack carrier
For small to medium-sized dogs, you should get hold of a carrier that is comfortable, safe and of high quality to put you in a position where you can carry your dog around comfortably. Such carriers are great for activities such as cycling, hiking and any other events where you need to bring your dog.
Get a dog carrier that vets approve to ensure that you are getting the best that you can on the market as well as to protect your dog.
Other things that you will need include but are not limited to a leash, grooming tools, toys, treats, poop bags or scoopers, deodorizers, bones, and bedding.
With all these items at hand, you are now ready to provide a loving environment for your dog. Be sure to engage it in lots of play sessions to ensure that it leads a healthy, happy life.
