Preparing for your new dog

Bringing a new puppy or adopted older dog home is both exciting and stressful. Preparing your home for the new arrival ahead of time can lessen some of that stress and make the transition for your new pup a bit easier.

Below are items you should have on hand for the big day:

* dog food
* dog treats for training
* food and water bowls
* chew toys
* dog bed
* crate or a predetermined area to confine the dog until housebroken
* buckle collar, leash, and tie out leash if your yard isn't fenced
* flea control
* grooming products (pet shampoo, brush, comb, nail clippers)
* pet-specific cleaning product for "accidents"

It's helpful to have a can of pure pumpkin on hand (not pie filling as it contains sugar). One teaspoon of pumpkin added to the dog's food will ease stomach upset, and take care of diarrhea and constipation. Also, remember to make a veterinary appointment, and apply for a dog license if required.

I have previously posted about chemical-free flea products, dog diet to avoid allergies and other health problems, housetraining, help for behavioral problems, etc, so you might want to check out these posts under "Posts by Category." There is also a very comprehensive article at PawRescue.org entitled "Bringing your new dog home" which covers everything you'll need to know from your dog's first night, training, feeding, changing the dog's name, etc. To read the article, CLICK HERE.

Just a bit of prep work can make a real difference in your new dog's first day with you and your household. I wish you good luck and many happy years together.