A Happy, Healthy Home!

A Puppy? A Rescue Dog?

Congratulations! You've found your new best buddy. Dogs need care on every level-physically, emotionally, mentally and socially.

Puppies and dogs, need a little extra attention to get the best possible start for a long, healthy life. If it seems overwhelming, don't worry; this blog is here to give healthy tips and preventive care advice.

Veterinary Care

A regular physical exam preformed by your veterinarian is an essential step in keeping your dog healthy.. These exams provide a chance to detect and prevent health problems early.

When to Call Your  Vet

Your dog can't tell you if something's wrong, but they can let you know in other ways. If you dog has an illness of other health problem, it's always best if you catch it early. If you have any concerns, or notice any of the following:

• ​Unusual aggression or lethargy
• Unusual discharge from the nose or eyes
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Excessive head shaking, scratching or licking
• Swelling, abnormal lumps
• Foul breath, excessive plaque or calculus deposits on teeth
• Changes n urination or drinking habits
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Repeated coughing or gagging
• Reduced ability to exercise or reluctance to play​​

Building A Bond

In the same way you need time to learn your dog's personality, your dog needs time to learn yours. Build a bond with them by:

• Playing to build trust and friendship
• Following daily routines
• Exercising to keep them engaged and active
• ​Training to create mutual understanding

Nutrition

Pick out a clean, quiet area where your dog's food and water bowls will be consistently placed (be sure to clean both regularly). 

Socialization

Once your puppy has had all his/her required vaccines, and it is safe to play with other dogs, your new puppy/dog will need time to adjust to their new environment and make new friends. Gradually socialize them by:

• Introducing them to neighbors
• Explore dog parks
  
• Take them for obedience classes
  

Must Haves

The following things should be in your house when your dog arrives and items your dog may need:

• Bed
• Bowls - water, food
• Collar, leash
  
• Toys, treats
  
• Training Pen/Crate
  
• Nail trimmer
  
• Shampoo
  
• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Waste bags, holder - for walks

Safety

Lastly, many household items, including common foods, can be life-treating to your puppy/dog! Keep the following toxins out of reach, where they can't find them:

• Insecticides, rat poisoning
• Household cleaners, toilet bowl cleaners, laundry detergent
  
• Plants - lilies, sago palms, amaryllis, chrysanthemum - just to name a few
  
• Prescription medicines
  
• Antifreeze and liquid fuels
• Onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, moldy/spoiled foods, chicken bones, products containing xylitol (artificial sweetener) - just to name a few
  

----------IN A POISONING EMERGENCY--------
If there's any chance your dog has ingested something poisonous, call your veterinary clinic or poison control. DO NOT wait - contact them immediately!

This article provided by,
​ASPCA