Is a dog the right pet for you?
Dogs are intelligent, faithful and fun companions. However, they take up
a lot of time, energy and money. Before adopting a dog, consider what
changes might occur in your lifestyle over the next few years, such as
moving interstate, welcoming a new baby and travelling. Are you prepared to
care for a dog in all these times?
A dog is not a good choice for busy households or owners who are out all
day. Before you get a pet you should think very hard about whether you can
provide what it needs.
What do dogs require?
Someone to provide them with their needs
for the rest of their lives.
Companionship; to be with other dogs or
people and not to be left alone for long periods.
A balanced diet.
A constant supply of fresh, clean water.
Worming and regular flea treatment.
Regular walks (at least once a day).
A well-fenced garden to play and exercise
in.
Raw bones to chew on to keep teeth and
gums healthy.
Regular checks by a veterinarian.
To be groomed regularly, particularly
when shedding. Long-haired dogs need to be groomed every day.
Some dogs need to be clipped regularly.
To be cared for when you are away.
Never to be left in a car in warm
weather, even with the window open.
A bed with their own blanket.
To be desexed.
A collar and identification tag.
A microchip for permanent identification.
To be registered with the local council.
Training.
To be cleaned up after.
Lifespan
This depends on the size of the dog, but is around 8-14 years. A small dog
can live much longer.
Behaviour
The dog is a pack animal and will be upset if left on its own for long
periods of time. You also need to establish the dogs' place in the pack,
that is, your family.
Training your dog
Basic training is important and should commence as soon as you get your dog
home. Positive reinforcement (rewarding good behaviour) is the recommended
method of training. Training requires time, patience and repetition to be
effective.
It is a good idea to train your dog to sit before you give it anything it
wants including food and attention.
Socialisation
A dog needs to mix with its own kind. It also needs to get used to a range
of people, places and noises. A critical period for a puppy is between 4-18
weeks of age. Many clinics now run puppy pre-school or socialisation
classes. These classes allow puppies to socialise with people and other
dogs. They also teach owners about basic obedience training and general
health care of your new pet.
health
A dog needs to be vaccinated against serious diseases and given regular
boosters (further injections) throughout its life-usually once a year after
an initial series of shots.
A dog should be treated routinely for intestinal worms, heart worm and
fleas. Veterinary surgeons can recommend the most suitable treatment.
A dog that does not receive enough exercise or is overfed becomes obese. It
lives in pain and discomfort and its life expectancy is shortened. Lack of
exercise can also lead to overgrown claws and is often the cause of
destructive behaviours.
Diet
A good diet is especially important for puppies, nursing bitches and older
dogs. Ensure the food you buy contains all the requirements your dog needs.
Look for the words 'balanced' or 'complete' to ensure all the dog's
nutritional needs are met. A poor coat may indicate lack of regular
brushing, but can also result from poor diet or parasites.
Why adoptions fail
Not understanding what normal dog
behaviour is for this type of dog.
Expecting too much too soon.
Not thinking ahead about changes in
lifestyle and living arrangements.
Common problems
Barking and digging are normal behaviours
but can be distressful to us. Training can help.
Dogs left alone for long periods with
nothing to do will find their own amusement!
Escaping: good fences and gates are
essential for all dogs.
Download a pdf
version of 'Is a dog the right pet?'
Come along
to one of our Choosing the Right Dog Sessions
Back to Pet Adoption
|
