9 Things Every New Pet Parent Should Know
If you’re reading this article, it’s probably because you’ve recently become a pet parent – and in that case: Congratulations! Having a new furry friend is one of the greatest joys filled with fun and discovery. To help you with this new adventure, we’ve compiled a list of 9 of the most important things a new pet parent should know.
1. Schedule Your First Vet Appointment Now
Your first vet appointment with your new furry friend is necessary because it gives you a baseline for where they’re at. And if there are any issues, you can nip them in the bud sooner than later. Plus, establishing a relationship with a vet as quickly as possible will help Fido get used to their new health care provider.
2. Update Your Pup’s Microchip Information
If your canine companion isn’t microchipped, we definitely recommend doing so. If they already are, then be sure you get the information on their microchip updated so that if they ever get lost – it’ll be you that they contact and not their old owners. However, remember that microchipping isn’t putting a GPS in your pooch – it’s more like securely attaching your information to them.
3. Register Your Canine
There are some local jurisdictions that require you to register your canines. The process tends to be extremely simple, usually only requiring you to show your pup’s updated vet records and vaccinations. With that, you’ll typically get a tag to add to their collar – and like microchipping, it will help keep Fido safe if they ever get lost. Animal control or the local vet shelter will be able to identify them quickly, and things will go much smoother. This usually costs between $10 and $20 in most areas.
4. Designate Fido’s Emergency Contact
Just like you need an emergency contact so des your new little furball. This contact should be someone who can ideally take care of your pooch if you ever can’t. You typically want them to live close by, love your pup as much as you do, and be reliable.
5. Know the Location of the Nearest 24/7 Animal Hospital
In the case of an emergency, the last thing you want is to be scrambling around trying to find an emergency animal hospital that is open. This is why you should find and designate one now, so you’ll have all the information handy when you need it.
6. Create or Buy Doggy First-Aid Kit
Just like the previous tip, if your canine companion ever gets hurt, the last thing you want is to be underprepared, running around looking for supplies. So in the case of an emergency, you should either put a first aid kit together or buy one and have them handy in your home and car!
7. Have a Doggie Go-Bag
Having a go-bag ready for yourself in case you have to leave in an emergency is always a good idea. Adding some things for your pooch to that bag is also a great idea. This would be things like a first aid kit, food and water for a week, a couple of weeks of any meds they might be taking, and a copy of their vaccination records.
8. Learn CPR for Dogs
Hopefully, you’ll never need to use it, but knowing how to give CPR to a dog in case of emergencies can’t hurt; it can only help. The American Red Cross offers classes around the country. Here’s also a step-by-step guide.
9. Review Things that Are Toxic for Dogs
There are far more things that are toxic towards Fido than you might expect. From onions to raisins to special plants, there are all kinds of things your pooch could be allergic to. So, review the types of foods, plants, and chemicals your furry friend could find toxic. And in case your pup ingests anything you’re not sure about – you can always call Poison Control for assistance!
Becoming a new pet parent can be a lot of work – but it’s all worth it to keep that furball happy and healthy.