A New Member Into The Family…

Now that you have acquired a puppy, there is a list of things that you have to look into, such as regular visits to the veterinarian, the importance of finding a premium pet food that is complete and balanced, hygiene issues, some toys and also to provide a safe environment for him to grow up strong and healthy.

Puppies love to explore so, take into consideration which areas of the house or yard are going to be off limits. To make housetraining easier, it's good to restrict the freedom of a new puppy in both the house and the yard.

Puppies are known to chew on anything. That could mean furniture, slippers, the siding on your house, etc. Remember that chewing is normal behavior for a puppy, so provide safe toys to satisfy this need.

Put the kitchen trash in either the garage or high enough to be out of your puppy's reach.

Puppy toys

Toys that are chewable can prevent your pup from deciding to eat your furniture. Balls and knotted ropes are also great, (but avoid games that encourage your puppy to fight with you).

A place for puppy to rest

Bedding — It should be washable. The first few nights, your new pet might be lonesome or afraid. A radio on low or a ticking clock can help soothe your puppy to sleep.

Crate — Provide a place for your puppy to sleep and provide a safe, quiet haven for your pet.

The importance of balanced nutrition

Your puppy needs lots of nutrition to get through its first year healthy and happy. Fat, protein and minerals like calcium and phosphorus help build strong bones and muscles, and they provide plenty of energy for growth and play. However, too much of these nutrients may contribute to serious health problems like obesity, heart and kidney disease. Puppies come in many different shapes and sizes, their nutritional needs can vary accordingly.

While it is tempting to give your puppy an added treat that is not necessarily part of his normal diet, certain foods can be dangerous to your puppy's health. What is good for humans to eat is not necessarily good for dogs.

Items to avoid:

1. Chocolate: This can be dangerous for dogs.
2. Cookies: High in fat, low in nutrition.
3. Dairy products: Many dogs are lactose intolerant. Dairy products causes diarrhea.
4. Bones (from meat and poultry): can break teeth and also break into shards that may stick in the throat or intestine.

Please feed them healthy treats instead, for example: Jerky Plus Treats and Canine Puppy and Adult Treats. The Jerky Plus treat is made of vegetables and meat. It is also delicious, moist and very chewable, and they come in three different flavours too, namely beef, chicken and liver.

Vaccinations

Do not forget the important vaccinations for your pup! Your puppy should be immunized at an early age. Your veterinarian will advise you on a vaccination when boosters are needed. The veterinarian will want to see your puppy once a month for the first three months for vaccinations, etc. After that, schedule regular veterinary checkups every six months. Your vet will also check your puppy for parasites like intestinal worms, fleas and ticks, ear mites, ringworm and heartworms and will prescribe medication and give you advice on how to control parasites. A number of products are available and safe to use on your pup.

Have a great day with the new addition to your family!

Pet owners who wish to know about pets and pet care, please call the customer care line at 03-40432420, visit our website at www.petscorner.com.my or e-mail to customercare@petscorner.com.my