Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Is A New Puppy On Your Christmas List?



The Christmas season is coming all to quickly. The time for shopping for that perfect gift. It takes alot of thought and consideration to make the right choice. Are you thinking of a new puppy for a special someone? Keep in mind this is a big responsibility for the next 13 or more years. Not only is this a thought to consider, one should really do their research on the type breed dog one wants to get.

CONSIDER

Each breed is unique in their characteristics. Some are mellow, some are rowdy, some are extremely energetic, like Terriers. Some are large, some are small. Some shed, some do not, like poodles. There are even dogs with coats that do not affect people who are allergic to dogs, like the Havanese. Some are very shy and timid. Some are bred to be hunters. Also some breeds have genetics that produce health issues.

Once you decide the perfect breed of your choice you then will want to find a breeder with a good reputation with a proven track record. You will want to look into the history of the sire and bitch that are the parents of your new puppy. Now this may seem like alot but you can save yourself alot of heartache by doing the work. Verses finding our you have a young dog with severe genetic health issues.

I am very pro adoption. The saying "Mutts are the best", can be true. Many dogs of breed can also be found at shelters and breed rescue. Dogs with problems are dogs are brought into the shelters or abandoned on the streets. Sad to say alot of these dogs have been raised badly. In some cases "Not raised", many treated badly. They were purchased on an emotional whim, not understanding the responsibility and then "Gotten and Forgotten". So again you really would have to do your research, and of course involve the person or persons the dog is for. Compatibility is number one here also.

PUPPIES
Then the happy day arrives and the darling puppy is brought into his all new world. They are such fun and a joy to have around. They can certainly make us laugh. BUT What now? What to feed your dog? How to potty break him? Why is it when I take him out he does not go, but when I bring him in he goes? Why does he cry all the time? Where do I keep him? Where does he sleep? Who will care for him when we are at work? When do I take him to the Vet? What about spayed and neutering the dog? Do you know what shots are needed to protect him from illness? Why is he chewing up everything in site? Why does he destroy anything in his path? Why does he get into the trash?

These questions are easily answered and I will gladly help you with these, or any others. My point I am sure you can see, please seriously consider the time, responsibility and care needed for a dog. Don't make the choice on a whim. We don't need more dogs in the shelters and rescues. Remember it really is true "Dogs are humans best friends." UNLESS you are a Cat owner. They are all wonderful creations. Enjoy.

Animal Poison Control Center 24 hour hotline.
1-888-426-4435
A fee may apply so be prepared.

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