If you’re new to pet ownership, then the demands of puppy care may come as a surprise to you. These adorable, energetic, bundles of joy offer unconditional love and companionship, as well as a new-found list of responsibilities and obstacles. To ensure you feel confident and informed about your puppy’s care needs, we’re here to highlight ways to master your role as a puppy owner.
Understand The Importance of Proper Nutrition
One of the key factors in raising a puppy is understanding the importance of proper nutrition. Puppies do not have the same diet as an adult dog. Instead, they require specialized puppy-food which contains an elevated level of fat and protein to promote their growth and development. Puppy food contains key nutrients, including a specific omega fatty acid that is the same as the nutrients they receive when nursed by their mothers. Puppy food is rich in calories to help them grow, meaning it’s important to choose a high-quality, veterinarian-recommended brand for your new pet.
Get Proactive With Your Puppy’s Veterinary Care
Veterinary care is the cornerstone of your puppy’s development. As early as only 6-8 weeks old, your puppy will need to be checked out by a veterinarian to begin their health care plan. Your puppy will need to return to the veterinarian every 3-4 weeks for up to five months to pursue their puppy vaccinations, deworming, and anti-parasite treatments. By the five month mark, your veterinarian will guide you through the spaying/neutering process and work with you to develop an ongoing veterinary care plan to uphold your pet’s health.
Promote Safety and Happiness With a Puppy-Proofed Home
Puppies are notoriously inquisitive and eager to get into just about everything. As such, it’s essential to promote safety and happiness by puppy-proofing your home before your new companion’s arrival. Puppies should not have access to the entirety of your home. Instead, choose a common area such as the kitchen or living room to create a puppy-safe environment. Use a baby gate to close off access to other rooms and place their crate or kennel with a bed and blankets, so they can feel safe and comfortable. Be sure to remove any potentially hazardous objects that your puppy may be inclined to chew, including loose wiring, decorations, fragile items, and cleaning agents and chemical products.
Promote a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life for your new companion by contacting your local veterinarian today to learn more about how to prepare for your puppy’s care.
