The key to bringing a puppy into your home is to think things through well before the big day.
Most people spend months preparing for the arrival of a new baby. Theyโre just as likely, however, to bring a baby dog home on a whim, without any preparation at all. Small wonder they find themselves playing catch-up for weeks, months, years, or even โgetting rid ofโ the dog as they struggle to recover from the mistakes made in the pupโs formative months. The wise puppy-owner-to-be puts much thought into pre-puppy preparation.
Itโs never too soon to start researching the corps of professionals who will help you raise your puppy right. That list will include her veterinarian (or veterinarians, including an emergency hospital, holistic vet, and โregularโ vet), training instructor, and perhaps a groomer, pet sitter/walker, doggie daycare provider, and boarding kennel. Grab your phone book, make a separate list for each category, and check them out.
For more details and advice on pre-puppy prepartion, purchase Whole Dog Journalโs ebook, Puppy Basics.
