Donate because you care
1. Are you prepared to love and care for a dog for a lifetime?
Nationwide, close to 4 million dogs enter shelters and rescues every year, with a vast majority of those being surrendered or left homeless by an owner that is no longer willing or able to care for them. Depending on their size and breed, dogs are a 10 to 20 year commitment. When considering welcoming a furry member of the family, think about your long term plans and goals. A lot can change in 10 or 20 years – jobs, living situations, and lifestyles. Are you prepared to always include your dog in whatever life decisions you make?
2. Are you willing to give a dog the daily exercise she needs?
Dogs require a significant amount of both physical and mental stimulation in order to be healthy and happy. Veterinarians recommend at least 20 minutes of physical exercise, like brisk walks, jogging, or playing sports like agility or Frisbee, at a bare minimum, every single day.
3. Will you provide the necessary training and socialization?
​One of the biggest reasons dogs end up in shelters and rescue is due to behavioral issues. Most often, with proper training, socialization, or confidence building, these dogs can become wonderful, loyal companions. But, it does take time, patience, and effort to help a dog become a good fit for your family. In addition to housebreaking and basic good manners, like greeting people nicely, walking calmly on a leash, and coming when called, a dog will need to be taught how to live harmoniously in your home.
4. Are you prepared for the expenses of dog ownership?
Most new pet parents are surprised by the cost of dog ownership and grossly underestimate what it will really cost to own a dog. The truth is, a dog is a big investment. In addition to providing food, you’ll need a whole slew of basic supplies: food and water dishes, collars, leashes, flea prevention, treats, and toys. And, depending on your own lifestyle and the needs of your unique dog, you may need additional supplies like a dog bed, crate, waste bags, or vehicle restraints. Add to that the costs associated with routine veterinary care, training, grooming, and required licensing for a more accurate estimate of costs. In addition to these regular, basic needs, dog owners should be prepared for unexpected expenses, too, like emergency or illness, doggy daycare or kenneling, and any long term health issues that may arise over the life of their pet.
WHY DOES MY PUPPY BITE AND NIP AT ME?
Teach your puppy bite inhibition
Learning how to moderate the force of a bite is very important for all dogs. There may come a time when they’re in pain or fearful, and they put their mouth on you or someone else. But if they’ve learned bite inhibition, they understand that they shouldn’t bite down hard. Puppies naturally nip at each other while playing. If they bite too hard on their mother or littermate, the other dog will likely make a loud yelp sound, warning the puppy, “Hey, that hurt!”
Give your puppy an alternative item to chew
It’s a good idea to keep a puppy chew toy at hand at all times, so you can anticipate biting behavior and substitute the toy for your hand or furniture. Doing so will let pups know what is OK to bite or chew. If they start nibbling at your fingers or toes while you’re playing, offer a toy instead.
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Again, if they continue to nip, stop the play session immediately. If you’ve been training your puppy to sit, you might also redirect them by asking them to sit and rewarding with a toy.
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When the puppy keeps biting, even after you substitute a toy several times, he may just need to burn up some physical or mental energy. Take them in the yard and watch them run around. Help use up some energy!
WHY DID MY DOG GROWL AT ME?
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Growling is an important form of canine communication.
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It can indicate different messages, though most commonly it means that your dog is feeling threatened, protective, or she is attempting to scare off an impending confrontation.
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Growling is a way for your dog to convey her feelings.
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It is one form of canine communication, and it will be accompanied by other body signals that can help you to indicate the reason your dog may be growling.
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Growling may (or may not) indicate forthcoming aggressive behaviors, but it’s important to understand that the growl itself is not necessarily an act of aggression.