Vital Pet Health

When deciding to take on a new dog many people for a variety of reasons opt for a rescue.

Taking on an adult dog may well be better than taking on a puppy. The advantages are that as an adult it will probably be house trained and more settled. The chewing and destructive phases that dogs demonstrate may be over, yet habits for better and for worse could be well formed.

Remember that like humans, dogs are the product of their upbringing and if they have had negative experiences as a puppy or a adolescent then they may bring behavioural issues with them. These will need to be overcome with care, patience and attention from you, their new owner.

Rescue dogs

Rescue dogs may come from private owners, breed rescue clubs or charities. If you choose to take on a rescue dog from a charity then use the staff to explore the personalities and backgrounds of the dogs they have housed. Explain your home situation, the make up of your family and household working hours in order for the staff to make informed recommendations. The staff are trained to judge the suitability and longevity of a potential match. The aim of rescue centres is to find long term, loving homes for these animals.

Appearances are not everything

It is easy to fall in love with a dog on their appearance alone. This however is not necessarily the best recipe for a long successful partnership. A dog’s temperament and previous history must also be investigated thoroughly.

Many rescue dogs have behavioural issues due to their past. This may include; being left alone for long periods, being unable to live with children or an inability to co-habit with other pets. The experts are the staff, you need to research all of the dog's traits before making the decision. If there is a problem, obtain advice on how this may be overcome.

Taking from a private owner

This method may well be problematic. The dog’s history may not be up to date and the dog may be the result of several homes. You need to ask yourself why is this owner letting the dog go? The answer may be a genuine one, yet owners may say things in order for you to take the responsibility off their shoulders. Be careful! As there is a high chance that once you take responsibility for the dog they will not take him back if he demonstrates veterinary or behavioural issues.

Before you take your new dog home ask yourself:

• Do I have enough information about the dog’s background history?
• Do I know the dog’s likes and dislikes?
• Have I had the opportunity to walk and play with the dog away from the kennels or owner?
• Do I have a full veterinary history?
• Has the dog had any illnesses or operations?
• Does the dog have vaccination certificates?
• Have you a written agreement that taking the dog is subject to a satisfactory veterinary inspection within 72 hours?
• If the dog displays veterinary or behavioural problems shortly after taking the dog what support can they guarantee?

Other considerations

If the dog becomes ill then veterinary treatment can be very expensive. The cost of pet insurance will need to be factored in.

There is a legal requirement for the dog to have a collar and a tag containing the owners name and address. In addition to this micro chipping is also advised as a means of identification.

If you are going abroad and leaving your dog in kennels they can be expensive. Bookings can be taken well in advanced yet they will want to see an up to date vaccination record.

Exercising your dog with a daily walk is a minimum requirement. You need to devote time to play and exercise if your dog is to live a happy, fulfilling life.

Training should continue throughout the dog’s life. It will enhance the bond between owner and pet while stimulating both parties.