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Adopting and caring for a puppy is a big responsibility. Many people are taken in by how cute a puppy is, and they do not consider how much time and attention a puppy requires. Pets often end up in animal shelters or abandoned because their owners lost interest in them, or they did not have the time it takes to train a puppy. Before adopting a puppy, give plenty of consideration to the care and commitment a puppy needs. Dogs are social creatures, and if you have to be away from home a lot, a puppy may not be the right choice for you. If you already own a puppy, have patience with him, and give him the care and attention he deserves.
According to a website called "All Creatures/Puppy Care", written by David E. Hammet, DVM, between eight and twenty weeks of age, your new puppy will require several vaccinations. These will protect against hepatitis, rabies, parvoviral enteritis, distemper, upper respiratory illness, and leptospirosis. A rabies vaccination is required for dogs annually, and you will be given a tag for his collar showing that your puppy has received the vaccination.
Your puppy will also need to be wormed, according to Dr. Hammet. Tapeworms, roundworms, whipworms, giardia, hookworms, heartworms, and coccidia can all infect your puppy if he has not been vaccinated. These internal parasites can be fatal if not prevented and controlled. There is a pill that is given monthly to prevent worms. It is flavored, so most dogs consider it a treat and will readily accept it.
Dr. Hammet also recommends checking your puppy for fleas, ticks, mites, and ringworm. If you notice any symptoms of external parasites contact your veterinarian. There are products available to prevent and eliminate these parasites. Since fleas and ticks are a problem in most areas, it is a good idea to have your puppy on preventative medication. These medications are given by mouth or applied to the skin once a month, and they are very effective.
The same article details the importance of good nutrition for growing puppies. It recommends feeding your puppy high-quality foods made especially for puppies. Feeding him the proper nutrients will ensure your pet is developing healthy bones and muscles. Also, puppies should be fed according to package directions two to three times per day. Make sure your puppy has clean water available at all times. Avoid the temptation to feed your puppy table scraps. Puppies that are fed table scraps will begin begging during meals, and they may become obese. Dog treats given in moderation are a better choice.
Providing your puppy with plenty of chew toys will help discourage him from chewing on things he shouldn't. Keep cords and other things that could be dangerous out of reach. Puppy proofing is a lot like child proofing. Training sprays are available to keep pets away from forbidden areas in your house. Your pet will learn to associate the location that is off limits with the scent of the spray. This scent is offensive to animals, but doesn't leave a strong and lasting odor humans can detect.
Give your puppy plenty of exercise, love, and attention. He will reward you with unconditional love, and he will grow into a wonderful adult dog.
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