Bringing home a dog can be an overwhelming experience. Suddenly, this canine creature you’ve fallen in love with is part of your family, and you’re responsible for keeping them healthy. After more than 30 years serving the dog boarding and grooming needs of the Keaau, Hawaii-area, Bar-King Dog Kennel knows how Fido and Fluffy stay happy and healthy.

The experienced staff at this trusted dog kennel offers the following tips to help new dog owners care for their four-legged friends:

• Get To Know Your Pet: Getting to know the quirks and rhythms of your new dog isn’t just part of the joy of pet ownership. It also enables you to notice unusual behavior, spotting signs of health problems early on and possibly saving your dog’s life.
• Visit A Vet: Taking your new dog for a physical soon after you adopt does more than assure your four-legged friend is healthy. It also sets the foundation for you and your dog’s relationship with your vet, so you’ll know who to call should an emergency arise.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Make sure you’re planning plenty of exercise, walks, outdoor playtime, and games of catch to keep your dog active and prevent acting out. Fuel all the fun with a diet suited to your dog’s age, size, and activity level. Remember, no matter how endearing those puppy dog eyes may be, human food is generally not a healthy choice for canine friends.
• Squeaky Clean: Bathe your dog regularly, and groom and brush frequently to keep their coat healthy and clean. You’ll also need to regularly clip your pet’s nails to prevent injury to their feet. If bathing, grooming, and nail clipping becomes overwhelming, consult a dog grooming service for help.

Having a new dog in the family is a big responsibility, and sometimes you’re going to need a little extra help. For those times, the dog boarding professionals at Bar-King Dog Kennel are here to serve. Call (808) 966-8733 to schedule a dog grooming appointment for your new pup today, or visit their website to learn more about their fun, caring dog kennel services.