{"id":66,"date":"2016-05-09T19:40:16","date_gmt":"2016-05-09T23:40:16","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.truecareveterinaryhospital.com\/blog\/?p=66"},"modified":"2020-09-09T16:04:16","modified_gmt":"2020-09-09T20:04:16","slug":"caring-new-puppy-starting-off-right-paw","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.truecareveterinaryhospital.com\/blog\/caring-new-puppy-starting-off-right-paw\/","title":{"rendered":"Caring for a New Puppy: Starting Off on the Right Paw"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"TrueCare_iStock_000076750625_Large\"Congratulations on your new <\/span>puppy<\/span><\/a>! Bringing a wide-eyed, furry little canine <\/span>into your life<\/span> is wonderful \u2013 but raising a young animal is not without certain challenges. Housebreaking, socialization, and training are all important milestones. Are you prepared to tackle the basics of caring for a new puppy? <\/span><\/p>\n

The Foundation<\/b><\/h3>\n

You might be surprised at how much time, energy, and money you will spend caring for a new puppy. But rest assured, it\u2019s all worth it! Start by scheduling a <\/span>wellness exam<\/span><\/a> so we can evaluate your new pet, address any issues, and ensure his or her overall health. We will also discuss the importance of <\/span>vaccinations<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>parasite prevention<\/span><\/a>, microchipping, <\/span>spaying or neutering<\/span><\/a>, and deworming.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Right Supplies<\/b><\/h3>\n

Our team will review your puppy\u2019s nutritional needs so you can purchase the right food for him or her. Also consider purchasing a nice set of food and water bowls, a leash and collar, ID tags, a crate, bedding, and baby gates (to restrict access to certain parts of your home). Remember, caring for a new puppy typically involves picking up messes, so invest in a good spot cleaner as well!<\/span><\/p>\n

Daily Needs<\/b><\/h3>\n

We recommend a checklist of daily care needs to help you both get into a routine, such as a potty training schedule, meals, <\/span>grooming<\/span>, and playtime. When your puppy is old enough, enroll him or her with a trainer and provide opportunities for socialization with other people and pets.<\/span><\/p>\n

The first few months of your puppy’s life will help shape his or her personality and disposition. Patience and positive reinforcement will go a long way to influencing good behavior, and your puppy will gain confidence from experiencing new sounds, smells, and sights. Teaching your new puppy how to navigate situations (and showing lots of love) will result in a well-behaved, calm dog.<\/span><\/p>\n

Eyes Wide Open<\/b><\/h3>\n

Caring for a new puppy isn\u2019t always fun and games. The first few months of your puppy\u2019s life are a delicate time since his or her immune system isn\u2019t fully developed. Please <\/span>call us<\/span><\/a> immediately if you notice any of the following:<\/span><\/p>\n