Taking a puppy home for the first time is both exciting and challenging. If you’re a first-time dog owner, you may be at a loss on how to prepare for your new housemate. Puppies are a lot of work, and transitioning them into your family will take time and patience. The following veterinarian tips will guide you through the process of introducing a new member into the pack.

What to Do When You Bring a New Puppy Home

1. Be Sure You’re Fully Supplied

Make everything easier by ensuring your home is supplied for the days ahead. Stock up on everything you’ll need before pickup to properly care for your pup. This should include a collar, leash, crate, food and water bowls, ID tags, grooming supplies, nutrient-rich dog food, bedding, treats, and toys.

2. Puppy-Proof Your Home

Many first-time pet owners don’t realize how dangerous their home can be for dogs. To prevent emergency vet visits, keep poisonous substances such as cleaning supplies, antifreeze, some house plants and human medicine locked away or well out of reach. Block off potentially dangerous areas with baby gates, and close the doors of rooms you don’t want your puppy getting into.

3. Find a Reliable Veterinarian

When you first bring your puppy home, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible to make sure they’re in good health and to start their puppy vaccine series. Your veterinarian will start a patient profile, administer necessary vaccinations and parasite prevention, and check for any existing problems. This will also be a good time to ask your veterinarian any questions on puppy care you may have.

4. Handle Your Puppy Gently

Just like babies, puppies are fragile and need to be handled with extra care. Try not to pick them up more often than necessary, and use both hands when you do. If you have children, sit them down and have a conversation about gentle play and handling. Supervise all interactions between puppies, infants, and young children. Do some research on simple training tips and tricks. It is easy to find a training program that fits your lifestyle, but it is very important puppies learn some basic commands and to respect you as well. 

5. Make Introductions Gradual

A puppy may be fairly novel for you, but everything is going to be new to them. The sights, smells, and people might be overwhelming. Try to expand your puppy’s world slowly. Introduce friends and family members one or two at a time, and designate a small area for them to roam around in. As they get used to the house, supervise further explorations. Soon you’ll be ready to start training and settling into a daily routine of love and cuddles.

Every puppy needs a reliable veterinarian, and the experts at Lillian Veterinary Hospital will deliver. Based in Baldwin County, AL, this clinic provides quality veterinary care to every patient. From puppy vaccines to pet spaying and neutering, they’ll help your new family member adjust to a life of health and happiness. Learn more about their services online. Call (251) 962-2304 today to set up an appointment.