Tips For Adopting A Dog

October is a pretty big month for Man’s Best Friend: It’s Adopt A Dog Month! If you’re considering bringing a new canine pal into your home, this is definitely a great time to do it! In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO veterinary hospital, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a vet offers some advice on adopting Fido.

Choosing Fido

Picking the perfect pup isn’t always as easy as it sounds! Be sure to choose a pooch that’s a good fit for your household, lifestyle, and personality.

Start Off Positive

It’s very important for you and your four-legged pal to get things started off on the right foot. Before taking your pup into his new home, it’s a good idea to take him for a long walk first. This will let him burn off any nervous energy he has, and give him a chance to mentally ‘reset’ a little bit. Fido will also be calmer if he has an idea of his surroundings.

Introductions

If you have another pooch, do a meet-and-greet before finalizing any adoption papers. This is one area where it’s definitely best to proceed carefully. Even dogs that you may think would be a great match may not like each other. With other pets, you’ll want to make introductions slowly, over the course of several days. Ask your vet for tips on this.

Preparation

If you have a yard for Fido to chase balls and squirrels in, make sure it’s escape-proof. We recommend getting a self-latching gate. You’ll also want to address any anything you don’t want your canine buddy chewing or eating. That list includes plastic bags and ties, wires and cords, medicines, chemicals, toxic plants, and small or sharp objects.

Meet The Vet

A trip to the clinic is definitely in order. You’ll want to get Fido a nose-to-tail exam, and make sure that he’s current on his basic veterinary care needs. This is a great time to ask for care tips!

Let Love Grow

You’re starting on a very special journey of love and friendship with Fido. Don’t rush things! Focus on providing a steady routine, great care, and doggy comforts. You’ll be getting tail wags and happy dances in no time!

Please contact Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO veterinarian, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, for your new dog’s veterinary care needs. We love meeting new patients!