National Puppy Day is on the 23rd, so this month is all about dogs! Not only was this “pawesome” event founded to honor little Fido, but it was also meant to promote safe puppy adoption. In this piece, a local North Redington Beach, FL vet highlights puppies.
What Year Was the First National Puppy Day?
This charming celebration started in 2006. Colleen Paige, an authority on pet lifestyles, started it all. This is the ideal occasion to post pictures of your new puppy, but there’s more to it than that. Paige hoped that by bringing attention to puppy mills, the terrible things that these establishments do would be exposed. As you may know, this is a major animal welfare issue.
Progress has been made in this area over the past several years. For instance, Puppies rescued from puppy mills are no longer accepted at many pet stores. There are also more laws regulating breeders than there were in 2006. But we still have a ways to go.
What Can I Do to Combat Puppy Mills?
Puppy mills are especially evil since, in the end, they merely prey on people’s kindness and affection for puppies while frequently displaying little to no compassion for the animals. The breeding dogs they utilize are frequently kept in appalling conditions. Some of their puppies may find loving homes. Many people do not receive appropriate care. When the puppies are unable to procreate, it is tragically not unusual for them to be abandoned.
Here are a few tips:
Never Buy Fido Online: You might want to start your search for a dog online. If you want to find a local breeder of a certain puppy breed, for example, it makes sense to use Google. The breeder and kennel, though, should be open to personal visits. Use extreme caution when responding to adverts on websites like Craigslist.
Adopt, Don’t Shop: Puppy mills are losing support in the public eye, and this slogan is starting to stick. Visit a local shelter first. They also frequently have puppies!
Advocate for Animal Welfare Laws: If you have a soft spot for animals, you can find a lot of legislation and causes to support. Pay special attention to those that focus on puppy breeders and mills.
Back Educational Initiatives: The Humane Society’s Nose-to-Tail initiative is also focused on this. Anyone who is a teacher or has a grade school-aged child or can advocate for its inclusion in the curriculum. For further details, you can refer to this source.
What Are The Telltale Signs Of A Puppy Mill Breeder?
It can be hard to tell, especially from an online ad. The puppies for sale at puppy mills could look lovely in the pictures, and the owners might even claim that the pups are healthy and happy. But there are several details to keep in mind.
Honesty is essential. It is reasonable for breeders to allow you to visit the puppies and see them at their home. They should have a clean, comfortable, and roomy space. In most cases, the breeder should welcome and even encourage you to visit their dogs’ living quarters.
You’ll also want to look at how many breeds are offered. Most breeders have a strong personal connection to and/or extensive knowledge of a particular breed. As a result, the vast majority of breeders have a pretty narrow emphasis. Many only work with one or two breeds. A breeder with a large roster of breeds could be more concerned with making a profit than with breeding properly.
Responsible breeders will also vet you. If they check you out, that’s a good sign as well. The best puppy breeders are picky about who they sell their pups to. You might be asked to fill out an application and maybe even participate in an interview or meet-and-greet.
Check the paperwork. The paperwork that comes with a puppy can also tell you a lot. Documents such as vaccination records, pedigree papers, breed information, and care instructions should be included by a reputable breeder. Additionally, you might be asked to provide evidence that you are getting your canine companion fixed. In certain instances, you can be required to pay a greater charge in order to be able to breed your own pet. If a puppy has a certain congenital health concern, a good breeder will usually let you return it. Details on that should also be included.
How Do I Pick Out A Puppy?
Selecting the ideal dog can be challenging. Puppies are pretty much the cutest things ever. It can be extremely difficult to resist their endearing furry faces. However, this is a lifelong commitment, so you need to think about more than just how adorable little Fido is.
Although every puppy has the potential to be a great pet, not every owner and dog will be a good fit.
Some items to consider are:
Being able to take Fido in as a puppy and raise him yourself opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to developing his character and training him. A puppy that receives enough socialization has a lower chance of developing certain behavioral issues, while a dog that has spent its entire life around children and cats is likely to be more tolerant of those animals than one that has never met them. However, breed is definitely a huge factor in your pet’s physiology and personality.
That being said, there is still plenty of room to follow your heart. Sometimes you just know when you’ve found your pet!
Preparing for Your Puppy’s Arrival
Adopting a puppy is a huge deal! You will need to make a few preparations before the big day.
Retail Therapy
You’ll need to pick up (or order) a few items for your animal friend. Your list should include, well, everything. That includes food, snacks, dishes, beds, grooming tools, paw care items, a collar or leash, identification tags, and a crate or carrier. Don’t forget the toys! It’s also a good idea to get the little guy some GPS tags as well.
Making Your Home Safe
Little Fido is full of energy and full of surprises. That is a potentially lethal mix! Many ordinary household objects can be harmful to dogs. You’ll need to address any and all potential hazards. Some of the items on that list include toxic plants, small or sharp objects, wires and cords, plastic bags and ties, chemicals, medication, and lawn/garden products. Ask your North Redington Beach, FL vet for more information.
Reach Out to Your North Redington Beach, FL Veterinarian
Calling us to schedule an appointment should be high on your list of priorities. Your canine companion will require a comprehensive examination. Vaccinations, parasite management, microchipping, and spay/neuter surgery should all be on the agenda during the first year. Feel free to ask for advice on topics such as nutrition, training, and personal hygiene while you’re here. We love seeing adorable puppies grow into healthy and happy adult dogs!
National Puppy Day Celebrations
You don’t have to do anything crazy to join in and help get the word out. Sharing infographics and images regarding canines and puppy adoption will help. Every little bit counts!
Sharing information about adopting puppies on social media is another way to get involved. Of course, if you have a puppy of your own, you can definitely spoil Fido a bit. Get your furry pal a new toy or special treat!
Do you have questions about puppy care? Please do not hesitate to contact us. As your North Redington Beach, FL pet clinic, we are dedicated to offering top-notch care!
