12 New Puppy Essentials
Author: The Vet Shed Date Posted:13 August 2018
Your new furry family member has a few needs and wants that you need to care of:
A safe place with a comfy bed
Your puppy needs somewhere to sleep. This should be away from the hustle and bustle of the house so your puppy can get some quiet time and feel secure and safe.
Bowls
Your puppy should have their own food and water bowl. It’s important that they know from a young age where it is appropriate for him to get food from, and always know where they can find fresh water.
Dog Collar and Lead and ID Tag
Puppies should get used to wearing a collar from a young age. Your puppy is going to grow out of this first collar pretty quickly so keep that in mind when deciding which collar to get. It is also important that your pup gets used to a lead. ID tags are essential. They are the fastest way that pets are reunited with their owners if they get themselves lost. We have a huge range to choose from and they all come with free engraving.
Car harness
Your puppy will need to travel in the car at some stage, so a car harness which keeps them safely restrained is a must. Not only will this prevent any unnecessary injury in an accident, it will save you from a hefty fine from the police!
Worming Control
Intestinal worming for puppies is so important. They get into everything so it can be easy to pick up worms. Plus, some may already have worms when you purchase them, as mothers with worms can pass them through when breastfeeding. Worm your puppy every 2 weeks until 12 weeks old, then every month until 6 months and afterwards at a minimum of every 3 months for life.
Heartworm Prevention
Heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, so it is essential that you take preventative measures. There are many different products to choose from (including some that do intestinal worming at the same time).
Flea and Tick control
Paralysis ticks kill dogs, and fleas are a pest that your puppy does not have to live with. There are so many good products on the market that will protect your pup from all these nasties. The Vet Shed team are here to help you decide on worming treatments, and flea and tick control with a solution that is right for you, your pup and budget.
Good food
Feeding your pup a good diet is essential for healthy growth and development. There are many premium brands including Black Hawk, Royal Canin, Hills and Advance. With so many to choose from it can be a bit daunting. The Vet Shed team can help you to assess your pups needs and also your budget so your pup is on a good diet that you can sustain.
Toys!
Puppies need toys. They need to play, chase and tug at things. If you don’t supply them with toys then they will find their own...
Vaccinations
Like humans, puppies need to be vaccinated to protect them from deadly diseases.
Grooming Supplies
Getting your puppy used to grooming at a young age is very important. Making your sessions fun with lots of treats and petting will set them up for life to enjoy their pampering and grooming sessions...
- Shampoo, conditioner and ear cleaner. Keep your puppy smelling great by having these grooming staples on hand. A mild soap-free shampoo designed for puppies will do the job perfectly. Cleaning your puppy’s ears on a regular basis will prevent ear infections and clean them of any built up wax. This is particularly important for dogs with long ears such as spaniels.
- Brushes and combs. Not only will a regular brush keep your puppy’s coat healthy, long haired puppies particularly need brushing to prevent matts and tangles occurring.
LOVE!
Puppies have just been taken away from their litter mates and mother and into a strange environment. Be patient and give lots of cuddles. They don’t stay little for long so enjoy it whilst it lasts. Nothing can make you smile like a puppy can.
