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4 Things to Do Before Getting a New Furry Friend

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If you have decided to get a dog, we would like to congratulate you! Whether you live alone, with your partner, or with your family, adopting a dog is easily one of the best decisions you will make. 

Many experts claim multiple benefits of having pets, particularly dogs, as they are great for reducing stress and anxiety, encouraging regular exercise, improving cardiovascular health, and boosting overall productivity. 

As a pet parent, there are some essential things that you need to do before adopting your new furry friend. After all, having a dog is a huge responsibility and a full-time job. This is why we have compiled an excellent list with all the relevant details to help guide you in the best possible way. 

Plan For Medical Care

Plan For Medical Care
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Regardless of what dog breed you get, it is essential that you set aside ample finances for their medical care. You should search for the best local veterinarian and set up an appointment as soon as you adopt your new furry friend.  You should also heavily research the breed you are getting, such as going to https://minihuskylovers.com/ if you’re adopting a mini husky as each breed is different when it comes to care.

As a rule of thumb, schedule at least two annual visits and keep track of your dog’s vaccination schedule. Also, make sure that your vet is your first point of contact in case you notice any unusual symptoms or behavioral patterns. Make sure your vet ultrasound equipment is up to date to give your furry baby the best care. 

Vet checks can become costly, especially if your pet needs continuous therapy or needs an expensive surgery done, and this is where pet insurance comes into play. Is pet insurance worth it for your dog, you might ask – the answer is always going to be yes! Pet insurance will save you loads of money if your dog becomes sick, injures themselves, or has an accident. It will secure you from financial shocks that you may otherwise have to bear all by yourself. 

Pet Proof Your House

Pet Proof Your House
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Your dog is basically going to be your new family member, so you need to ensure that your house is safe and comfortable for them. This means that you need to arrange a space for them to sleep, eat, and play. 

Additionally, you need to take care of loose electrical wires, store away all chemicals and toxic substances such as cleaning products, medicines, or food in cupboards and out of their reach, close the toilet lid, and get rid of poisonous plants for dogs.

A pro tip is to invest in a no-chew spray so that all your lovely furniture doesn’t get scratched or chewed by your new furry companion. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Stock Up On Pet Food

Stock up on pet food
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Getting a dog means keeping them healthy and happy by ensuring a good diet. Basically, there are two choices, wet or dry food. While vets around the world approve of both, each has its own benefits, and your dog is likely to prefer one over another. 

Dry food, known as kibble, may be beneficial for your dog’s teeth, while wet food is a good option as it provides added moisture content in case your dog isn’t drinking enough water. Make sure that the package label reads that the food is “complete and balanced.” 

As a new dog parent, you may be wondering what human food dogs can eat. Generally, it is safe for dogs to have carrots, apples, blueberries, bananas, watermelons, white rice, milk, cheese, plain yogurt, salmon, shrimp, tuna, chicken, turkey, pork, peanut butter, cucumbers, and green beans. 

Make sure your dog doesn’t eat cherries, avocados, coffee, chocolate, grapes, citrus fruits, coconut products, raisins, nuts, cinnamon, onions, garlic, chives, raw or uncooked meat, raw eggs, salty food, bread dough, or alcohol. 

Make A Grooming Schedule 

Make a grooming schedule for your furry friend
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As a pet parent, it is important that you make time and pay attention to your new furry companion’s hygiene and grooming needs. 

This will require regular baths, trimming their nails, brushing their teeth, and brushing their coat to ensure it is smooth and not brittle or flaky. Additionally, you may also want to regularly check them for fleas or ticks and clean their bedding.

Sometimes, it may be a good idea to have them visit professional grooming services so that you can sit back, enjoy, and let your dog get the royal treatment!

Parting Thoughts

dog with sunglasses
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A furry friend will be the beginning of a beautiful and wonderful journey of companionship, loyalty, love, and friendship. Your dog will be your support system and vice versa. Just make sure you take out ample time to feed them, bathe them, play with them, and cherish them at all times. We are sure you will make an awesome pet parent!

Featured Photo by Nikolay Tchaouchev on Unsplash