A Lifetime of Wellness - 9

Introducing your new dog to:
NEW HOME
Introduce your dog to his area as soon as you bring
him home. Put his toys in his crate and show him
the location of his food and water bowls. Your dog
will soon know which special little corner of your
house is his. Respect his right to be undisturbed
while he is resting, sleeping or eating.
CHILDREN
Many children love puppies and vice versa. But it's
important to teach your children about proper animal
care. Introduce your puppy or new dog to children
gradually, during short, supervised periods of
time. Children must learn not to pull a dog's tail or
ears, squeeze or poke him, make loud, threatening
noises or move toward him too rapidly.
YOUR BABY
To a dog, a baby is a totally different creature than
a child or adult. A baby smells different to him, and
doesn't look, move or sound like an adult. So it may
take more time for your new pet to adjust to a baby.
Let your dog smell a piece of the baby's clothing
or a blanket before he meets the baby. On first
meeting, the dog and baby should be kept 10 to 15
feet apart and brought closer very gradually, a foot
at a time.
VISITORS
Introducing your new dog to visitors is an
important part of his socialization. It will help
lessen his fear of strangers and help make him
friendly. Do not let him jump up on people. Give
your new dog the command " Sit " and help him
into this position. Have a treat ready for his
reward and don't allow guests to pet him until
he is " sitting. " Have him hold this position while
being greeted. This will help him learn how to
accept greetings and praise calmly.
OTHER PETS
Introduce your puppy to other pets in the
house with care.
» TO OLDER DOGS
When an older dog meets a puppy or new
dog, it is advisable to have both pets on
leashes. Do not leave them alone together
until you are sure they are comfortable with
one another. A puppy or young adult can be
too rambunctious for some older dogs or be
easily intimidated by a much larger dog.
» TO A CAT
If you are introducing your new dog to a cat,
consider putting a wire or mesh gate in a
doorway. This lets the two animals get
acquainted, while allowing the cat to jump
out if she needs to get away from the puppy.
Do not allow the dog to chase or bark at the
cat; this might cause fear or anxiety.
His safe place
The key to successful use of the crate
is to always use it in a positive manner
- never as a punishment.
Whether your other pet is a dog or cat,
remember to provide separate time for
attention, affection and playtime, so that you
meet their needs as well.
A Lifetime of Wellness

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of A Lifetime of Wellness
