Dear readers of the “Pet Care” column,
I trust that I have convinced you to adopt/acquire a companion animal, and to give it a happy “FOREVER HOME”. It now behooves me to offer some suggestions associated with selecting the new puppy/kitten.
Do understand that the decision to adopt must not be a knee-jerk one, and must have been derived from your acknowledgement that it is a long-term commitment and your desire to provide optimal nurturing and care to a new family member. Very often, even as early as a week after the pet acquisition, the new caregiver returns the animal to the shelter because the cuddly puppy/kitten is creating too much havoc, and needing an immense amount of attention. Let this outcome not be a reality.
The advice which follows has been garnered from texts on the matter of selecting a new puppy/kitten, which have been produced by colleagues and persons with appropriate experience; and, of course, by my very own knowledge, harvested from over 5 decades of dealing with the topic of today’s “PET CARE” article.
Your first consideration should be whether you want a pure breed dog as your pet, and whether this type (breed) of animal would fit into your own needs and lifestyle. For example, if you are allergic to dog/cat dandruff (hair, dead skin, scales), then it would not be wise to acquire a companion animal of a breed that is known to shed hair profusely.
Start by researching the kind of adult dog that would be most compatible with your lifestyle. A book on dog breeds is a good starting place, but you could also ask veterinarians for their suggestions; they are very familiar with the different dog breeds and their suitability for each home. You can also visit dog shows to see many different breeds at once, and talk with dog breeders and trainers.
Consider the size of the adult dog, and how it would fit into your household. Would you prefer a lap dog, or do you have room for a large dog? Research the exercise and grooming requirements of different breeds. Some breeds, such as herding dogs, require more exercise and may be best suited for someone who is looking for a jogging partner. Other breeds need regular grooming, so you would need to plan for those expenses.
There are certain breeds which are predisposed to unique health conditions. You may ask the breeder to test for the condition, if possible, or provide a written guarantee should the condition occur. Mixed-breed dogs may be less likely to have certain health conditions than purebred dogs.
Regardless of your breed of choice, the young puppy/kitten you have set your sight on should be playful, bright, and alert. You do not want to take home an asocial (antisocial) animal that is aggressive and domineering. The animal should mix easily with its littermates and other animals in the shelter/breeding station, and with personnel and humans in general.
Most importantly, the animal must not be exhibiting any symptom of an inherent ailment; for example: diarrhoea, inappetence, vomiting, dehydration, sneezing/coughing accompanied by a watery or thick yellow discharge.
Where should I look for a puppy?
I always advocate that you go to a shelter, where you would find a variety of puppies that have been abandoned or handed over by owners for adoption. If, however, you prefer a purebred dog, ask veterinarians and breed clubs for advice on how to locate a reputable breeder. You must interview several breeders, and ask to see the puppy’s parents and the breeding facility. It is important to visit the facility to ensure that a limited number of puppies are raised in a sanitary, well-socialized environment.
Unfortunately, there are many puppy mills that sell poorly-socialized puppies. These puppies may develop health and behavioural problems over time, especially if they are products of incest. These puppies are often sold at pet stores, and when they become ill, they require costly treatment.
Buying a puppy from a pet store also limits your knowledge of the puppy’s initial living conditions, and you cannot see the puppy’s parents to ensure they are in good health and are well socialized.
How do I check a
puppy’s physical health
Most breeders and some shelters would provide you with paperwork that the puppy has been examined by a veterinarian: has been examined, treated for parasites, and has received at least the first round of vaccines. Many breeders may also provide you with a health guarantee.
A healthy puppy should:
• Appear alert and energetic; not lethargic (tired)
• Be well fed, with a little fat covering the ribcage
• Have a good coat, without dry flaky skin or bald patches
• Walk and run normally, without limping
• Have no discharge from the eyes, nose or ears
• Follow a tossed toy with its eyes
• Not cough, sneeze, or appear to have difficulty breathing
• Turn to look at you when you clap or make a noise behind it.
Puppies should be comfortable when handled. Try holding the puppy and touching the ears, mouth, and paws. If the puppy becomes aggressive, or struggles to get away, it might not be the kind of dog that would snuggle with you on the couch, or allow you to trim its nails. Choosing a healthy puppy with a good disposition would increase your chances of raising a dog that would be a great fit for your household, and be your best friend for years to come!
We will continue this discussion next week.
