Spring is just around the corner (despite the current temperatures outside)! Hey, we never said that spring had to be warm – we should all know better by now. That being said, it’s a common time for many to start thinking about getting a new puppy to enjoy the outdoors with. Here are a couple of things to think about when thinking about, or selecting a dog.
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Adopt or not? Adoption can be a great option if you are looking to provide a good home to a pup in need, and if you might want a dog that is already house trained.
They often come spayed and neutered as well. It is important to ensure that you get as much background on these animals, and ensure that they are a good fit by meeting them several times first.
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Breed – Different breeds are often known to have different expected personalities, energy levels, and temperaments. While this is not a hard and fast rule, selecting the right breed for your lifestyle, family, and space is important to keep your dog and yourselves happy. Also, different breeds can be at risk for different diseases and issues, as well as having different ongoing upkeep requirements, so it’s important to familiarize yourself and prepare appropriately. This brings us then to the next point of
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Cost – there are numerous costs associated with getting a pet. Initial and yearly vaccines, spay/neutering, puppy classes, grooming, food, bedding, toys, daycare, kennels, unexpected health issues, the list goes on and on. Budget appropriately, and always have an emergency fund available. Pet insurance is available through several different providers and can be a way to mitigate a portion of unexpected expenses.
Getting a puppy is certainly an exciting time, and there are lots of things to consider. You can always come by to have a chat about things before getting a dog to see how best to prepare yourself. They can be a lot of work, but they are also some of the best companions around.
