Puppies are beloved by animal lovers. They’re tiny, adorable, playful, affectionate little beings you can carry around everywhere. What’s not to love? Puppies are certainly hard to resist. Perhaps this is why many people end up getting a puppy before they are ready or before they know how to prepare for one. puppy insurance
There are a lot of decisions to make and factors to consider before you decide to bring home a new puppy. Don’t give in to impulse and take home a puppy at the wrong time. Do your research first. Learn if you are ready to have a puppy and find out how to get one responsibly. Get educated on how to prepare for your new puppy and how to raise that puppy well. puppy insurance
#5. Ask Why Do You Want a Puppy? puppy insurance
Ask yourself why exactly do you want to get a puppy? Have you just lost a dog and would like to replace your old friend? Is it the first time you have ever thought about having a dog in your home? For whatever reason, puppies grow up and can live with you and your family for anything from 10 to 15 years, some dogs can live even longer. A cute little puppy is destined to become a member of your family and is there for the long haul through the good times and the bad times.
#4. What About Budget – Can You Afford a Puppy?
Keeping any animal costs money – and this does not just mean the cost of feeding a puppy, because there is so much more involved. You may need to have a bitch spayed when she is old enough, and this can be expensive. If you have a male dog, then you might want to get them neutered, although not as expensive as spaying a bitch – it will still set you back a few pounds. Then there are the training classes should you decide to go down that path. On top of this there are the veterinary bills which include the necessary vaccinations, regular check-ups and then any emergency care your puppy might need.
You might also need to puppy proof your house and garden which could cost a little money. You would then have to think about the expense of buying everything you need for your puppy, including dog bowls, blankets, bedding, toys, leads, microchipping, dog cage for when you take them with you in your car. When you go on holiday would you need to place your dog in a boarding kennel? Lastly, you have to think about pet insurance which is always a good idea – but you would need to read the small print of any cover you take out to make sure vet bills are well covered.
#3. Have You Got Enough Time To Give a Puppy?
A puppy can be a very demanding little creature and you can’t just ignore them when you are busy or feeling tired. You have to give them all the time in the world and on top of this, you have to feed them the correct food, always making sure they have access to fresh clean water. You have to make sure they get enough exercise – both mental and physical, and you have to give them all the love and care they will ever need every day of their lives throughout the year. A lot of puppies end up in rescue centers because people just do not realize how much time they need to give their puppies.
#2. Would You Make a Responsible Dog Owner?
Are you the sort of person who would make a responsible dog owner. This basically means would you be prepared to look after your dog the way it needs to be taken care of. Then on top of this would you be prepared to have your dog spayed or neutered when the time is right. Would you keep your dog on a leash in a park when needed and then pick up any mess they make in public places. Are you the sort of person who would be totally committed to your dog?
#1. What About Home Environment?
Is your home environment suitable for the puppy you would like to adopt or buy? If you live in a small apartment, then a bigger dog is not an option and even some smaller dogs like terriers would not be very happy cooped up in a small place. Terriers are very active little creatures that need a lot of regular exercises. There are a few breeds of larger dogs that can cope with lying on a couch all day – but this is never a good idea health wise!
You need to think about this carefully and choose a breed that not only fits in with your lifestyle but your home environment as well.
