Month: July 2018

So you think you are ready for a puppy? Here are a few things to think about before bringing them home!

1. Time & Energy

• Dogs take a lot of time and energy on a day to day basis but especially when they are new to your home. With everything being so new, some dogs may need time to adjust. Your future dog’s temperament plays a big part in this. Are they naturally calm or hyper, do they tend to sniff around or eat every thing. With puppies it’s a little harder to read them because they develop their personalities with time, there are often signs though. You will need to invest a lot of time and energy into making the process as smooth as possible while communicating your needs to your dog as well.

2. Training & Socializing

• Training & Socializing is important for every dog regardless of age. There are basic commands that every dog should know to keep them safe. Things like “Sit”, “Stay”, “Come” can be helpful if your dog is in danger or you need them to respond immediately. Socializing is also important, this means to other dogs as well as the environment they live in. How do they approach other dogs? Can they read that a growl is not play? Are they afraid of going outside or what could happen when outside? Do they seem extremely anxious when you are not close? We offer basic training here at Happy Panters 

3. Pet Necessities

• Dogs use a lot of stuff. They need doggie beds, bowls, clothes (depending on their coat and the weather). Dogs need special food and toys, they need collars and leashes. Treats and lots more! Here is a List for a new pet parent!

4. Vet

• Just like us, dogs need check-ups, shots and vet visits. There are a lot of vets in America now and many different types of pet insurances. Even Petco & PetSmart has some type of vet option. Dogs have a list of vaccinations they need to be healthy. Please research a head of time because vet visits can be costly. Choose a vet or insurance plan that works best for you and your dog. Vet Chart!

5. Grooming/Shedding

• Many breeds require regular grooming. Their fur gets matted easily and that can be very uncomfortable for your dog, not to mention it will be expensive as well. Grooming takes care of bathes, nails, anal glands, teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and more. Some breeds grow hair long and/or double coated needing regular grooming while others may grow short hair which can cause a lot of shedding. This is very important to think about before choosing the breed that fits you. There are some breeds that are hypoallergenic as well. It is important to note, even if the breed has short hair, regular grooming is still required. They still need bathes, nails cut, teeth brushed, ear cleaned, etc.

Owning a pet is a very rewarding experience that also requires a lot of work. Think of your pet as a baby or small toddler and you will begin to understand. Everything you would do for a baby or small toddler you may have to do for your dog. Research dog breeds, personalities, vets, grooming needs, training expenses, day to day care and support before getting your new dog.

Most of us pet parents love giving our dogs a little of what we are eating. Some of them have grown to expect some of your food. Here are a list of foods that may be harmful for your pet this summer.

​Chocolate, Coffee/ Caffeine

• A substance called Methylxanthines is found in chocolate, coffee and caffeine. When digested by dogs, it can cause diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst, tremors, seizures or even death. Please keep these products away from your dogs. The smell may be enticing yet detrimental.

Grapes & Raisins

• Grapes have been known to cause kidney failure in dogs. Please be careful during picnics, barbecues and other festivities where food is served. Experts have admitted that they are not sure exactly what toxin is released inside the dog, but that kidney failure has been a direct effect of dog’s eating grapes.
• Ex. Grapes, raisins, cookies with raisins, fruit salads

Onions, Garlic, Chives

• These items can cause your dogs red blood cells to die. Foods are often cooked with these ingredients for humans, be careful not to give your dog too much if any at all. Poisoning from this causes weakness, breathing problems and vomiting.
• We may love Avocados and feel as though it loves us back. It can be very harmful to your dog. Avocado’s naturally contain persin in the fruit itself, in the leaves, in the bark, all throughout the tree. Too much can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Keep avocados away from your pet to keep them safe.

Avocado
Raw Eggs

• Some may put raw eggs in their pet’s food to help with shiny coat or their health. Raw Eggs can also be harmful to dogs. Salmonella or E. coli can be found in raw eggs which would cause food poisoning. They have healthy alternatives for making your pets coat shiny.

Take the extra precaution and keep these foods away from your pets. Them getting into even a little bit of something and cause a lot of pain and harm to their bodies.