At this time of year many may find themselves the proud owner of a new bouncing ball of fur commonly known as a "Puppy"! Now what do you do? Is often the question. May I make a few simple suggestions over the next few days.
Make sure if your giving a pup that the receiver really wants a pup in the first place. If it's for yourself or your family do the same.
Research and find out what kind of pup would be a good match for your family, or the family you are giving it to. Things like: male, female; long hair or short hair; need lots of professional grooming or just an occasional brushing; active or non-active family; big or small dog; does anyone in the family have allergies? Do they travel a lot? Are there children, if there are some, are they too young?
This will eliminate a lot of starting up issues. It may even mean not giving or getting a puppy. After all we don't want this to be an unpleasant experience, do we? And we certainly don't want this pup, after a month or so, to end up at the local animal shelter either, do we?
If you give, or get a pup, really consider it's name and the first important thing that you do! Make the name positive in nature depicting something that may be characteristic about the pup in a good and positive fashion.
Nothing negative like: "Jaws", "Trouble", "Mischief", "Killer" and the like. You will find that pups will live up to their name. So, make it a positive name, something good to live up to. Names are important and should be chosen wisely. Make it a fun family affair creating good memories over a bowl of popcorn and some hot cider!
My first pup was called "Bootsie", because she had four little brown paws and a black body. She looked like she was wearing boots! I don't think you ever forget your first pup!
Here's to your successful pet relationship!
Tracy/twriter
