Choosing your new pet wisely is an important first step in making it a part of your family.
Now, get ready for its arrival. Prepare! Get the family ready first. Discuss needs and responsibilities. Talk to younger children about proper handling of a pet. Set expectations. But remember, all newcomers need time to settle in. Get the right gear: collars, leashes, proper identification, bowls, bedding, and toys.
Find the right quality food for your pet's age and lifestyle. Choose a location for your pet's bathroom area outdoors so that you do not have to clean up the entire yard. Pet-proof your home. Electrical cords, shoes, plants, and household products should be moved out of the pets reach. Your dog should not have the run of the house only a designated area and only when he/she is supervised.
Choose a veterinarian and visit him or her as soon as possible for an overall health check, stool sample and necessary vaccinations. Consider the financial undertaking you are committing to. Arrange to have it spayed or neutered as soon as it is old enough. Sign up for puppy obedience class to help make your new pet a well-behaved family member. You'll find the time it takes is well-spent in terms of having a pet you will enjoy.
Look forward to loving and being loved by your new friend. The relationship between humans and pets is like no other. As you care for your pet, it will reward you with unwavering friendship and loyalty that will last a lifetime.
"Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative." MordecaiWyattJohnson
New Family Member
Okay. You've decided to add a pet to your family, but the decisions are not over. Consider these points: A Golden's lifespan can be 12-15 years. Are you ready to commit to this amount of time?
Do you live in an apartment and work long hours? If so, a fish, bird or cat may be your best choice. Find the right breed for your personality and lifestyle: Goldens need to have exercise and should be walked daily. Golden retrievers like to chew. This is their way of calming themselves. Chew toys and the added expense of Veterinary cost should also be considered. If the cost is more than you can commit to, maybe an animal from your local shelter is your best option.
