Tag Archives: pets

Jun10

Preparing Your Child For Getting A Pet

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Preparing Your Child For Getting A Pet

Getting a pet is a rite of passage for many children. If you grew up with pets, you might feel like it’s an essential part of childhood. And if you didn’t, perhaps you want to give your children an experience you didn’t get. But it’s important to consider what pet ownership entails before you get one. Making sure your child is ready for the responsibility of a pet is crucial, especially if you don’t want to end up being the only one to care for it. You can prepare your child for getting a pet using a few different techniques:

Start with Toys:

Before taking on the responsibility of caring for a living thing, it’s a good idea for your child to get some practice. One of the ways children often develop key skills such as empathy is through play. Getting your child some toys to care for is a good way to practice some of the things they’ll need to care for a pet. You can get them some Schleich animal figurines or some stuffed toys to role play caring for. Baby dolls can also be an option for taking care of something without the responsibility of actually having to keep something alive.

Give Them Some Other Responsibilities:

Caring for a pet is a big responsibility, so you need to know that your child is ready to take it on. They will need to show that they can manage some responsibilities of their own and keep it up long term too. When you get a pet, your child might help with things like feeding, cleaning, or exercising your pet. But before you go out and get one, they could have a few other chores to show that they’re capable. You can get them to do daily tasks such as making their bed to demonstrate that they can build consistent habits.

Borrow a Pet:

Borrowing a pet from a friend or family member can be a great way to have a practice run. You can have their pet for a day or a few days so you and your child understand the responsibility of caring for a pet. Obviously, some pets are easier to “borrow” than others. A dog will often be happier to spend time with another family than a cat will. You could offer to pet-sit while someone you know is away if you’re looking for a way to trial pet ownership.

Teach How to Behave Around a Pet:

Children need to be able to behave well around a pet to keep both them and the animal safe. Even when they have been taught how to handle an animal, they should still be supervised. It’s crucial to teach your child important things like how to recognize when a pet wants to be left alone, how to pet them gently, and how to avoid upsetting an animal with their behavior. You can do this by talking to them, demonstrating, reading books, or watching videos.

Getting a pet isn’t something you should do lightly. If your child is asking for a pet, make sure you don’t rush into it and get a lot of practice beforehand.

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Apr2

The Health Benefits Of Having A Dog

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The Health Benefits Of Having A Dog

Welcoming a dog to your home and making them a part of your life is a significant commitment, bringing many benefits. If you have friends and family members with dogs, you will know how much they dote on their pets and the joy they bring to their lives. This is because dogs are not only super cute but can also help to enhance your health and well being. Here are some of the benefits you can gain from bringing a dog into your life:

Companionship:

Loneliness is something many people experience at certain times in their life. Feeling lonely is not a pleasant feeling, and is something that can leave people feeling isolated and disconnected from society. Welcoming a dog into your life is an excellent way to beat feelings of loneliness. A dog is a constant companion, and you can enjoy many happy years in each other’s company. So, if you are looking for a friend to enrich your life and care for, then a pet dog could be the ideal choice.

Stress Relief:

Like loneliness, feelings of stress are something many people experience on a daily basis. Stress can have a negative impact on a person’s life and can impact both physical and mental wellness. Finding ways to reduce stress levels is crucial to prevent it from causing long term damage and developing into chronic stress. Many dog owners report that their pet helps them feel calmer and seems to intuitively know when they are feeling stressed.

Research has shown that both dogs and cats can help their owners to lower their stress levels. Studies have shown that pet companionship can help reduce cortisol levels, which is the body’s main stress hormone, and increase oxytocin levels. Oxytocin is a hormone and neurotransmitter most associated with feelings of love and bonding. So, there is scientific proof to back up what pet owners already know; owning a dog helps to reduce stress and helps them feel better.

Exercise:

Many people struggle to get as much physical activity as they should. When you own a dog, being physically active is no longer optional; it is essential. All dogs need exercise, and it is up to you to give them the physical activity they need to live a long life and thrive. Caring for a dog means you get the perfect opportunity to be more active without any excuses standing in your way.

Routine:

If you often burn the candle at both ends and have slipped into an unhealthy routine, becoming a pet parent can help you get back on track. Dogs require a routine to keep them healthy and happy. You will need to bring structure to both your and your dog’s day. Little things such as remembering to make frequent supermarket visits for Walmart pet food or vet appointments will bring structure to your day too. As long as they get fed regularly and receive the exercise they need, your dog is sure to be happy with their routine.

As you can see, our pet dogs truly take care of us too – could there seriously be a more perfect animal?!

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Mar21

6 Tips For Improving Your Pet’s Life

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6 Tips For Improving Your Pet’s Life

How healthy is your pet? Does your dog or cat have a shiny coat and sparkling eyes? Do they have boundless energy to run in the park or do they seem a little lethargic? If you want to improve the health and well being of your companion, check out some of the top tips below:

High Quality Food:

Many people with pets feed them using the most convenient pet food options in the supermarket. As with their own food, they choose pet food that offers the best value for money, but that isn’t necessarily the best way to buy pet food. Like you, your pet needs quality food.

Much of the pet food on conventional supermarket shelves contain additives and low quality ingredients. This has an effect on your pet’s health and well being. When you switch their food source, you will notice an improvement in their coat, their eyes, and energy levels.

Stimulation:

Animals are similar to humans, some are lazy, others are active, and some are more intelligent than others. If you have a very intelligent pet, such as a Border Collie, you will need to make sure they have plenty of stimulation to keep their minds active and not destructive.

Stimulation can include walking your dog regularly but it can also mean creating small games for them to play, such as hiding biscuits in cogs for your smart cats to find. Stimulation is important because, without it, your pet becomes stressed, unhappy, and destructive.

Regular Vet Appointments:

Having an excellent vet and seeing them as often as needed is so crucial for your pet’s health. Regardless of if you think your pet is feeling fine, your vet will be able to verify that or see indicators that they are unwell that you might not be aware of. With their findings, your vet will be able to recommend the best course of action. This could be a change in diet, treatments for canine osteoarthritis, vaccines, or even physical therapy. Keeping up with your vet is the best way to ensure your pet is living the highest quality of life.

Regular Grooming:

Your pet might not enjoy a trip to the groomer as much as you when visiting the spa but it’s just as important. Some pets require more grooming than others but it’s still recommended to groom your pets regularly to check for any lumps, parasites, or skin irritation.

If you have a dog or a cat that sheds every season, it’s a good idea to help them with their grooming, especially in the spring and especially if they are cats. Cats love to lick their fur and if they are shedding, the hair will become jammed in their throat and cause some discomfort. Some cats shed so much fur that you may feel you need to open a whole Pet Grooming Franchise to cope with it all, but luckily, you can simply visit an established pet groomer with the experience to know how to deal with your never-ending-shedding feline friend.

Vitamin Supplements:

As with humans, your pets need their fill of multivitamins. Multivitamins help to top up the essential vitamins and minerals your pets need to stay healthy and happy. Of course, they will get many of their vitamins from quality pet food, but supplements can improve their well being.

Remember to choose high quality vitamins as well as high quality pet food. High quality vitamins usually contain the most essential elements for your particular pets to make their coat and eyes shine. The vitamins can be added to their food semi-regularly, like once a week. Before making any changes, it is always a good idea to consult with your vet. They will be able to direct you to the best food and vitamin options to maximize pet health.

Socializing:

Ask any professional vet such as Cynthia Maro, and they will tell you that pets love to socialize and need to be around other animals and humans to be happy in their lives. The good news is, no one needs an excuse to spend more quality time with their favorite animals! Try going to the dog park once a week or scheduling a pet play date with your friends to help keep the pep in your pet’s step.

Taking good care of your pet is a lot of work and responsibility but it is always worth it for a beloved member of your family!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Mar17

Keeping Your Pet Fit & Healthy At Home

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Keeping Your Pet Fit & Healthy At Home

Pet ownership is a responsibility that must be taken seriously. It can be difficult to find the time and money to take care of your pet, but it’s important for their health and happiness. You should remember that taking care of a pet at home offers a lot of health benefits too. Pets require quality food, proper shelter, adequate exercise space, love, and care from you to live a long life.

Here are some tips to ensure your pets remain fit and healthy while at home:

Make sure your pet has a quality diet:

One of the most important things you can do for your pet is to make sure they have a quality diet. This means providing them with good quality food and plenty of water. Well fed pets are less likely to become overweight or develop health problems. A healthy diet is especially important for older pets, who are more prone to health problems. After adopting your new companion from a website like Pet Quick Start (or something similar in your local area), be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best diet for your pet’s age and lifestyle. This will ensure that you are providing the best for your pet as soon as they are home.

There are a variety of commercially available pet foods on the market, but it’s important to read the labels carefully to make sure you’re providing your pet with a nutritionally complete and balanced diet. You should also avoid giving your pet table scraps, which can lead to weight gain and other issues.

Provide your pet with a comfortable place to sleep and rest:

Pets need a comfortable place to sleep and rest, just like people do. A good bed or sleeping area will help keep your pet healthy and happy. Pets who don’t have a comfortable place to sleep may become restless and develop behavioral problems. They may also become overweight if they spend too much time sleeping.

A good sleeping area for your pet can be a simple bed, blanket, or cushion. You can also buy special pet beds or sleeping areas at most pet stores. Be sure to clean your pet’s bedding regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and other allergens.

Exercise your pet regularly:

Exercise is an important part of your pet’s health and well being. Pets who don’t get enough exercise may become overweight or develop health problems. Regular exercise is especially important for older pets, who are more prone to health problems. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best exercise routine for your pet’s age and lifestyle.

There are a variety of ways to exercise your pet such as playing fetch, going for walks or runs, or visiting a dog park. You can also buy special pet exercise equipment, like treadmills or exercise balls. Setting up an artificial lawn in the backyard gives you a good place for your pets to run around without getting exposed to pesticides.

Take your pet to the veterinarian for regular checkups:

Like humans, regular checkups are an important part of your pet’s health care. These checkups can help your veterinarian identify potential health problems early and provide treatment before the problem becomes serious. Be sure to take your pet to the veterinarian for a checkup at least once a year. You should also take your pet to the vet if they seem ill or are exhibiting unusual behavior.

Some pet insurance plans cover the cost of routine veterinary care, such as vaccinations and checkups. Check out Canine Journal’s comprehensive evaluation of pet insurers to find a plan that suits you and your pet. Then, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best pet insurance plans for your pet’s needs before making a decision.

Keep your pet groomed and free of parasites like fleas, ticks, and lice:

Pets who are not properly groomed may develop skin problems, become infested with parasites, or develop other health problems. Be sure to brush your pet’s fur regularly and trim their nails as needed. You should also bathe your pet regularly to keep their skin and fur clean and healthy.

Fleas, ticks, and lice are common parasites that can infest your pet’s skin and fur. If left untreated, these parasites can cause serious issues. Be sure to use a flea and tick prevention product regularly and check your pet for any evidence of parasites. The veterinarians from SoCal Vet Group (or a practitioner in your local area) will be able to recommend the best prevention products for your pet. They should also be contacted immediately if you are noticing a decline in your dog’s health after an infestation.

Having a pet is a life long commitment and they should be treated like family for the best quality of life!

Dec8

Thinking Of Getting A Dog? Here’s How To Make The Adoption More Practical

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Thinking Of Getting A Dog? Here’s How To Make The Adoption More Practical

Are you thinking about adopting a pet into your family? Perhaps you’ve had your eyes set on getting a dog for a long time or maybe your children are interested in helping to adopt a dog. Whatever the case is, bringing a dog into your family can be surprisingly difficult, time-consuming, and also impractical depending on where and how you live. So in this post, we’re going to be discussing a few tips to help you make adopting a dog much easier”

Are you ready to train your dog?

First, remember that you need to commit a lot of time to puppy training and other training tasks if you want your dog to behave and learn from you. If you don’t think that you have enough time for something like that, then it’s usually best to consider a different kind of hobby. Raising a dog and providing for it can be really hard, especially if you can’t provide them with attention on a regular basis.

Do some research on various dog breeds:

You may also want to do a little research on various dog breeds to help you choose which one to pick from. Dog breeds vary a lot in their personalities and also their physical looks. This is especially important if you want a dog that stays smaller or grows up to be a big boy or girl.

Is your home suitable for a dog?

You’ll also want to start preparing your home for a dog, especially if they’re rather big. Dogs can easily knock things over and you really don’t want them to be running around when you have a lot of things on the floor. Clean up your home and make sure you’ve installed various kinds of devices to hide cables and to keep your dog safe from harm.

Get to know your local vet ASAP:

Every pet owner has a duty to get to know their local vet. This is an important step in keeping your dog as healthy as it can be. Your vet will be able to provide you with ample information for recommended foods, keeping their shots up to date, and training tips too.

Do you have enough space in your home for a dog?

Finally, don’t forget that you need to prepare enough space in your home for your dog. You need to think about where your dog should sleep at night, but you also need to consider that your dogs need a bit of space to roam around. If you don’t have a large open area in your home or even access to a local park for your dog to explore, then you might want to reconsider adopting a dog. Just remember that it’s a lot of work and takes more space and sacrifice than you might imagine.

Dogs are a forever part of your family so consider all of the above before you sign the adoption papers!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Nov12

Where Should Your Dog Sleep At Night?

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Where Should Your Dog Sleep At Night?

It’s important that your dog gets a good night’s sleep, but just where should they hit the hay? Are certain sleep options healthier than others? This guide explains it all:

Should I get a dog bed?

A dog bed can provide a cozy place for your pooch to curl up. If you’ve got hard floors, it is essential to set up a dog bed. This could be an improvised bed made of pillows and blankets. Alternatively, you could buy specially engineered dog beds from a company like Pawpedics to provide ultimate comfort. It’s important that any dog bed is large enough for your dog. Dog beds should be regularly washed to keep them nice and clean.

When looking for a new dog bed, make sure you find one appropriate for the size of your dog. A large dog bed, for example, would be great for a Golden Retriever. Or, of course, a tiny dog diva who wants lots of space to lounge on. Hey, we all need our beauty sleep! Other than the size of the bed, you should consider if your pup needs extra support when lounging on it for therapeutic needs. To find the right dog bed for your pet, simply enter a search for “dog bed singapore” (or your local area). From there, you can read recommendations from other pet owners, explore your options, and look at sizing charts too,

Should I get a dog crate?

Dog crates are often used for training puppies to stay in bed at night so that they don’t wander about and cause mischief (or hurt themselves) while you’re asleep. Crates can also provide a sense of security for older more anxious dogs, providing them a private place to escape to.

As with a bed, a crate needs to be the right size. Make sure that they can stand up and lie in it comfortably. Be wary of buying a small crate for a large breed puppy as they may quickly outgrow it. You shouldn’t be locking your dog up in a crate for hours on end during the day. Crates should be used only for helping dogs to sleep – not as a method of keeping your dog contained while you go out for work (you’re better off hiring a dog-sitter).

Can the dog sleep in my bed?

Some people allow their dog to sleep in their bed. There’s nothing wrong with it, just understand that once you start allowing this, it will be very hard to train the behavior out of them if you change your mind. Allowing a dog to sleep in your bed can strengthen your bond, plus they can provide great cuddles. However, you’ll need to get used to your bed being covered in dog hair. Larger dogs may also take up a lot of space, which could lead to a disrupted sleep.

While the correct answer to where a dog should sleep is always in your bed or on the couch, there are other alternatives too for a good night’s sleep for your pup.

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Oct31

Welcome To The Rainbow Bridge

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Welcome To The Rainbow Bridge

Hello…. We interrupt our scheduled broadcasting of Halloween accessories to deliver some very sad news. This past Tuesday, one of my sweet family pups, Ollie, joined our other beloved fallen four leggeds on the Rainbow Bridge. Ollie was the gentlest most darling little boy and fought valiantly through heart failure. Needless to say, mine and my family’s hearts are absolutely broken and we miss lil Ollie terribly.

We are all so thankful for the time that he had with us and to Canine Lifeline for helping us welcome him into our home. I don’t think anyone could see a picture of our tiny Terrier without welcoming him into your hearts too:

On February 13th of 2014, we brought Ollie home and adopted him officially on Valentine’s Day. I fell in love with him as soon as I saw him and will never forget how he pranced out the door of the pet store and into the car when we took him home. I don’t think he left my arms for hours! As we’ve always had medium sized dogs, a little one that you could scoop up was a novelty to all of us.

Ollie had so many funny quirks like his absolute refusal to walk down stairs so we would have to carry him down when he would wander onto the second floor. We would also always joke that he was part cat because he had so many cat like mannerisms! He would bat all of his toys and his wittle face whenever he had an itch. He was also incredibly particular about his treats but I’m sure he is chowing down on his preferred soft peanut butter bites up in doggy heaven.

It is never easy to part with our furry friends but I take so much comfort in the fact that he is in a happy place and back to his normal, perky self. We love you so much, little Ollie, and it is never goodbye but see you later. ❤

Do you have any pets? Do they have any quirky habits? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Oct27

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Dog For Your Family

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3 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Dog For Your Family

Anyone who has ever had a dog will know how affectionate they are, what good company they make, and how it can be a huge bonus to simply have one in your home. If you have never had a dog and you’re considering getting one for your family, there are some excellent reasons why that is a wonderful idea. Children (and adults) can benefit enormously from a dog. So if your children have asked you whether they can have one and you’re wavering on your decision, take a look at these reasons, and you might find yourself convinced:

Good Friend:

Children can easily fall out with their human friends. They can have arguments. They can be upset. Maybe they’re sick and can’t play. With a dog as a companion, however, none of that will happen.

A dog will never stop enjoying your child’s company, and will prevent them from feeling depressed and lonely. A dog can easily and quickly become your child’s best friend, and you can rest assured that there will be no bullying or disagreements that lead to a miserable, crying child who needs comforting. Your child might even find that they can confide in their dog when they have no one else to talk to, which reduces worry. Plus, a dog is great entertainment that can make your child feel better when they are angry, nervous, sad, or stressed.

Good For Health:

Having a dog as a pet is connected to having good health. Dogs love to be outside playing, running, chasing a ball, playing fetch, and learning tricks. Of course, they also need to be walked at least once a day. Therefore, if your child is the one taking care of their dog, they will also be outside more, be more active, and generally feel better and healthier all around. Walking their dog means that your kid is not sitting in front of a TV or computer screen, and it helps to maintain a healthy weight (along with a balanced diet). Breathing fresh air is a wonderful thing.

For younger children, parental supervision will be required on these walks away from home, so it’s good for the entire family. On top of all of this, studies have shown that having a dog gives your child a strengthened immune system, so they are less likely to get sick and will be less prone to allergies.

Good Life Skills:

A child will spend a lot of time playing with and caring for their dog, and in doing so, they will constantly be developing valuable skills for later on in life. Taking care of their dog will show your child what it’s like to look after another living being, which will add to their ability to parent if and when they choose to do so. This will include ensuring that their dog is well, feeding them, giving them healthy treats like CBD for dogs, and making sure that they are exercised.

Grooming a dog can boost motor skills, which is another important skill. Kids can even improve their reading by reading aloud to their pet; a dog won’t interrupt or criticize, so the child will have more confidence to attempt even harder words. Dogs are also great when it comes to learning how to socialize. Going out to the dog park and mingling with other dog owners will increase your child’s confidence in social situations.

Welcoming a dog into your home is special for the entire family. And, as always, adopt don’t shop when you are giving a pup a furever home!

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Sep14

Toy Tips For Your Dog   

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Toy Tips For Your Dog   

A new toy for your dog can be exciting because of all the fun ways they interact with it. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for getting your dog what he needs out of life, but there are some general guidelines you can follow if you’re unsure where to start with choosing the right toys for him. Some examples might include rubber balls or rope tug-of-war games like Runball, which are heavy-duty enough to withstand serious chewing without tearing. Here are some tips on what types of toys you should get for your furry friend:

Don’t Buy Cheap:

Don’t buy any cheap non-breathable rubber toys when buying something for your canine pal. These products often contain chemicals such as lead which could cause serious harm if ingested by our pets. It isn’t worth risking everything, so save yourself some money and buy a nice toy that will last.

Measure Up:

If you are buying a new toy for your dog to play with, then consider their size. A small breed of dogs should not be given large toys because they could potentially choke on them. While the larger breeds may need medium-sized toys that will still provide fun but won’t swallow entirely, so it is important to take this into consideration before making any purchases.

Compatibility:

Dogs are naturally inclined to want to chew. They love it, so toys that encourage this behavior can be a great way of giving your dog an appropriate outlet for his chewing instincts. But not all dogs have the same interests when it comes to playtime. Some will tear through another toy in seconds, while others prefer more interactive activities with their owners or other pets.

Plush Toys:

Another option would be a durable plush toy. Ones that can stand up to your dog’s chewing for a few weeks, at least. Plush toys make excellent toys for younger dogs that have been separated from their mothers. In the early days, your pup might also need toilet training, so in the short term, definitely consider a scooping service from scooptroop.com. 

Balls:

For any game involving fetching or throwing, balls provide lots of entertainment value. Dogs love chasing after them too! There are many different kinds available. Like tennis balls, squeaky balls, and even glow-in-the-dark balls if you want something extra special for nighttime playtime.

Give A Variety:

Give at least three different specific toy choices for the dog to play with. This helps them get used to new things and it also makes the experience more fun because they won’t know what’s coming up next. Ensure you know which size toys are appropriate and how much supervision is needed when your dog is playing with them.

^^^ Image by Mat Coulton from Pixabay

Dogs will love any treat you give them, even if it isn’t edible. They just want something they can enjoy playing around with. But, of course, every pup is unique, so don’t expect them all to go crazy over the same toys. As long as you provide them with a good, durable toy that fits their personality or play style, then they’ll have hours of fun playing around and being rewarded for it.

Featured Image By: Katrin B. from Pixabay

Aug5

4 Things You Will Need For Your Puppy

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4 Things You Will Need For Your Puppy

It can be a bit overwhelming for first-time pet owners to know what they need to get for their new puppy. You have to buy so many different things and most of them will cost quite a lot of money. You might not even know where to start! Don’t worry, though; this blog post is here to help with four essential items that every first-time pet owner needs for their new pup:

Collar and ID Tags:

Collar and ID tags are a must-have for any pet owner, but they’re especially important when adopting your first puppy that you’ll need to keep track of at all times! It’s also wise to get two of them in case one gets lost or chewed up by the pup. Include the dog’s name, your address, and phone number so that your puppy can be returned safely. A great store to buy the collars, tags, and other accessories would be Dog Friendly Co.

Complete and Balanced Puppy Food:

Complete and balanced puppy food is essential for your new pet’s health. Puppy chow contains all of the nutrients that a pup needs, such as protein, vitamins, minerals, and more in just the right amounts. All you need to do is determine with your vet what type of dog food your new pet will be eating.

There are several different types of pet food: kibble or dry, canned wet foods, natural balanced raw diet, freeze-dried foods, or fresh frozen diet. Whichever one you choose, it should always have an AAFCO nutritional statement on its label so you know it meets the minimum standards outlined by AAFCO.

Food and Water Bowls:

Now you need to get the necessities for your puppy. Get a water dish that is heavy and deep enough so they can’t knock it over as well as food bowls large enough to accommodate your pup’s needs. Consider using stainless steel dishes because plastic ones are porous and will retain bacteria if not properly cleaned every day. Pet stores sell all of these items together in an all-in-one kit which includes other valuable things like food storage bags, chew toys, collars with tags, etc. Remember to double-check measurements before purchasing anything if you’re buying supplies from a pet store or online.

Grooming Supplies:

For first-time pet owners, another essential thing you will need are supplies for grooming your pet. You’ll want to have a brush on hand so that your pup doesn’t get matted hair and you can brush it out when necessary. It’s also good to have brushes for furniture (fabric or leather) and walls if they happen to shed some of their fur in those areas.

A dog toothbrush is helpful, too, as it will help keep teeth clean, which helps prevent plaque build-up and gum disease down the road. Finally, if your pup has sensitive skin, there are shampoos explicitly made with them in mind that can help get rid of dog fleas quickly and ease the washing process.

As you can see, puppies require lots of basic supplies to be happy and healthy. Planning ensures your puppy has everything they need from the start so you don’t have to worry about it later.

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