Essential Supplies For New Dog Owners

Posted August 3, 2011 by Pet Friendly World in News | Comments Off

Before you get your new dog home, it’s wise to be prepared with the appropriate supplies. New puppies need more than just food and water, especially during the first night at the house. Here are a few items to get you started:

1. For starters, your new puppy will need to have his own food and water bowl. The best types of bowls to get should be made out of stainless steel. Stainless steel dog bowls are hypoallergenic, clean easily, and can last a very long time. Be sure to avoid plastic food and water bowls at all costs.

We advise against plastic because dogs have a tendency to chew up the sides of plastic bowls which create sharp dents and can cause minor cuts and scrapes to your dog’s gums. And of course there is the danger of your dog biting off a piece of plastic and swallowing it. Make sure that both bowls are full and ready to go as soon as your puppy arrives. With this tip alone, we’ve probably saved you some cash! Believe me, puppies will chew through plastic bowls for fun.

2. Deciding on what to feed your puppy is an important decision and you should have put together a nutrition plan ahead of time before bringing your new friend home. Most new dog owners buy dry dog food because they think that it has all of the nutritional needs their puppies will need.

Although dry food may be convenient, it is not the best source of vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, and fats for your growing puppy. It is best to consult with an animal nutritional expert will talk with your local breeder as they are professionals at raising healthy dogs.

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3. Be sure to have a place for your puppy to sleep. Bedding is essential but does not have to be fancy or complicated. In fact, it is best at first to pile some of your old clothes that still have your scent on them for your new puppy to sleep in. This way he will fill a little more secure with your scent around. You can of course purchase a more elaborate setup but it is not necessary.

4. Toys are an absolute must for a new puppy to be occupied with. However, many new dog owners go a little overboard and bring home lots of different toys, most of which are unnecessary. And if you have too many dog toys lying around it really complicates trying to train your dog to not nibble on everything in the house. It becomes confusing to your puppy to decipher what is his and what is yours.

The best puppy toys are old socks, shoes, or small balls that are big enough to play with but not too small for your puppy to swallow. Pick toys that are robust and engaging. Some modern dog toys are designed to appeal to owners more than they’ll ever appeal to an actual dog. Pick your pup’s toys on the premise that THEY will actually want to engage with it, rather than the fact it’s a squeaky, cheap piece of plastic with a footballer’s face on it!

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Top Tips for Saving Money for Pet Owners

Posted July 18, 2011 by Pet Friendly World in News | Comments Off

Owning a dog can be costly with reports of dogs costing over £20,000 over their lifetime. Although dog owners will pay out for all the necessities their dogs need, more and more dogs are being given up to rescue centres as their owners are struggling to pay for all their requirements.

There are many ways to save money on owning a dog, from feeding, to grooming and even to Veterinary bills. The pet industry is growing at an exponential rate so companies have to become more competitive to get you to part with your pennies, as well as keeping an eye out for deals and vouchers buy as much in bulk as you can, below are some really easy ways to save money on your daily pet care requirements.

• Training your dog is an ongoing process and commercial dog’s treats can be expensive. All dogs have different likes and dislikes when it comes to food, so find out what your dog likes so rather than getting something in a fancy packet. Treats such as apples and carrots can work just as well as expensive dog treats. It is worth remembering that many dogs are rewarded just as well through play as well as food.

• A cotton dishcloth, soaked in water and frozen can make an effective soother for pups who are teething. The coolness of the frozen water soothes the gums and cotton dishcloth is great to chew on.
• Feeding your dog the best dog food you can afford to buy will save many future problems, saving your money on veterinary bills in the long run.
• For dogs that require grooming one of the best things you can do to save money is by learning how to complete basic grooming tasks on your dog. Keeping your dogs coat smooth will reduce the costs at the groomers.
• A cardboard box can provide hours of fun for your dog – and they are given away free at supermarkets or as packaging (just ensure that there is no staples or sticky tape left on the box).
• Puppies grow so fast that it is best to borrow the collars and leads they need as small dogs from friends and relatives whose dogs have outgrown them.
• Crate training your dog can save you money on not having to replace shoes and handbags chewed while your pup was left alone. It can also help with housetraining your dog, reducing the number of accidents they may have on your carpet.
• Using your local library to borrow books is a great way to save money and yet learn what your dog needs.
• Insuring your pets can help with any unexpected veterinary bills should your dog fall ill or be injured in an accident.
• Purchase puppies from reputable breeds only. Check them out fully and have the breeder provide a current health certificate.

The most important piece of information is always shop around to ensure you get the best deal on anything you need to buy.

About The Author

Being an avid dog lover, Kim is the Owner of Pooches Galore, a company is Harrogate dedicated to dogs through dog walking, training and home from home boarding in the Harrogate area.

Kim has both a bachelors and masters degrees in psychology and is currently extending her knowledge of canine psychology and behaviour. Kim currently holds qualifications, amongst others, from the Oxford College, Academy of dog training and behaviour, and Animal Aiders.