Before You Bring a Dog Into Your Home

Bring all family members together to discuss what is required to have a dog become a member of your family. Dogs require alot of work and time devoted to their care and everyone should know what is expected of them in caring for the needs of the pet. Young children can be taught from the beginning that "Fido" is not a stuffed toy to be squeezed, punched or ears and tail pulled.
Family members should discuss and make decisions on each person's reponsibility in caring for the dog. For example, Suzie could be assigned the task of making sure "Fido" has fresh clean water every day or Tommy can be assigned feeding "Fido" his daily meal. Meals should consist of a healthy and nutritious dog food product.....no table scraps please. Dog treats should be limited as they can only add to a dog gaining weight. Obesity in a dog can affect their health the same as it does in humans. Tasks can be spread among all family members so that not just one person is having to care for "Fido". He is a family member and everyone should be responsible for his care.
All dogs need bathing and grooming. Some breeds like longhaired dogs need brushing on a daily basis to keep their coat clean and free of mats. Other breeds might need special trimming of their coat. These are things to consider in making your choice of a dog. Dogs need bathing frequently to keep their coats clean and free of flea and ticks. You will find many products out there in shampoos and products that also treat flea and tick infestation such as flea shampoos, sprays, and special collars. You will also find products to use in the house or on the lawn to help control fleas and ticks. Be sure to read all directions and follow recommendations for the size of your dog on all products.
Providing "Fido" with a kennel cage where he can rest and feel safe is a good idea. The cage should fit the size of the dog......a German Shepherd would not be comfortable in a cage size made for a Toy Poodle. The dog should be able to standup and have enough room to turn around in a comfortable manner. I put my kennel cage in a spare bedroom with the door open. Whenever my dog came up missing in the house I usually found him asleep in the cage. He was also content to be locked in the cage during short periods when I wanted him confined while I was away from the house. Most cages come complete with small watering dish that attaches to the door.
Outdoor Kennel Runs are a good way to house a dog outside. The Run should be at least 6 ft. wide x 6 ft. high and 10 ft. long which should allow the dog more movement when confined there. Place a dog house inside and provide a shade cover over the whole unit to keep the dog out of the sun and inclement weather. Water access is always a must. If you prefer to have the dog confined to the yard be sure to have a good fencing and provide a shady spot or place he can get out of the weather. Again water access is vital.
Enrolling your dog in an Obedience Class should be a top priority. He will learn basic commands of sit, stay, down, come and heel as well as socializing with other dogs and people. Obedience training makes for a better all around dog. Walking is a great exercise for dogs and allows you more time to practice the obedience lessons. It should be done on a daily basis if possible and is yet another way for the dog to be socialized with other dogs and people. Walking is another task that could be divided among all family members.
Last but not least a dog needs to see a Veterinarian and have his required vaccinations and checkup. "Fido" should be kept up to date with all his vaccinations from year to year.
These are ways to make your pet a happy healthy member of your family and one that you will enjoy.
Robert Cunningham
http://www.PetStuffA2Z.com
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