So, you want a rescue? Here’s a Checklist of What you Need
At Snoots we love to see rescue dogs getting a second chance. Bringing home a rescue dog is a heartwarming and rewarding experience. Not only are you providing a loving home to a dog in need, but you're also embarking on a journey filled with companionship and joy. However, preparing for your new furry family member requires careful consideration and planning. To ensure a smooth transition and a happy life together, we've compiled a checklist of what you need for your newly adopted dog. Obviously, every case is different, and some dogs will require more work than others. This is a starting point. Getting a Snoots membership will ensure we’re with you every step of the way!
1. Essential Supplies:
- Collar, microchip, and ID Tag: Choose a comfortable collar and attach an ID tag with your contact information. Remember, although microchips are great, most people don’t have microchip scanners with them, so make it as easy as possible for people to identify the dog as yours if they run off. Get the dog microchipped, at Snoots that’s always included in the membership.
- Leash: Invest in a sturdy leash for walks and outings. Spend time on leash training, and get comfortable walking with each other.
- Quality Dog Food: Select a nutritious dog food appropriate for your dog's age, size, and dietary needs. Our vets have great recommendations!
- Bed or Crate: Provide a cozy bed or crate where your dog can rest and feel safe. Make sure they have a spot that’s theirs.
2. Grooming Supplies:
- Brush and Comb: Choose grooming tools suitable for your dog's coat type to keep them looking and feeling their best.
- Fix any issues related to foregone grooming by the previous owners of the dog.
- Shampoo and Conditioner: Use gentle, dog-friendly products for bathing your furry friend.
- Nail Clippers: Keep your dog's nails trimmed to prevent discomfort and injury. We happily assist you with that if it’s difficult!
- Ear Cleaning: Clean your dog's ears regularly to prevent infections.
- Teeth Cleaning: Gum disease affects most dogs, periodical cleaning prevents gum disease and is a cheap and simple way to eliminate a problem down the line.
3. Health and Wellness:
- Veterinary Care: Schedule a thorough veterinary examination with us for your new dog to address any health issues and establish preventive care. We’re here to help.
- Vaccinations and Preventive Medications: Stay up-to-date on vaccinations and administer preventive medications for fleas, ticks, and heartworms as recommended by us.
4. Training and Enrichment:
- Basic Training Supplies: Invest in training essentials such as treats and training aids to teach your dog basic commands and good manners. It’s imperative to your relationship together that the rescue learns to work well together with you. Furthermore, everyone in the family has to be onboard with training, especially if you decide to train the rescue yourselves.
- Toys: Provide a variety of toys to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated, including chew toys, interactive toys, and puzzle toys. Remember however that toys aren’t a substitute for training and that you can’t buy a dog’s affection.
- Enrichment Activities: Engage your dog's senses and instincts with activities like scent work, obedience training, and interactive play.
Conclusion:
At Snoots we see quite a few rescues and rehomed dogs. There’s a special kind of relationship that can emerge from rescuing a dog, remember however that it takes ongoing work. Welcoming a rescue dog into your home is a special moment filled with love and excitement. Patience, love, and understanding are key as you build a strong bond with your furry companion. Congratulations on your new family member, and here's to many years of cherished memories together!