Dog Adoptions

I've been involved with dog adoptions one way or another throughout my life. When I was in elementary school we adopted a dog, Maffy from one of the local shelters. He was a Border Collie Labrador Retriever mix. We had Maffy for about 18 years before he passed away. Needless to say anytime you get a dog you're in for a long term commitment. Maffy was exceptional and if I had it my way we would have kept him for at least another 18 years.

You should take many things into consideration before adopting a dog. Dog adoptions should not be taken lightly.

My Dog Adoptions Story

For starters, before you bring home your new dog be sure to get some basic supplies. Four years ago, before I had a dog, I considered the many aspects of dog and puppy adoptions by reading, visiting shelters and rescues, and even consulting breeders. However, when I did find my Australian Shepherd mix, Linus I was not totally prepared with basic dog supplies. Lucky for me, the shelter had some basic maintenance (I think vaccinations and microchipping) before I was allowed to bring Linus home. That gave me a couple hours to run to the store and get some basic supplies.

Basic Dog Supplies

Here's a short list of basic supplies you want to have before picking up your dog:

Dog Food - If you have a vet, check with him beforehand and find out what type of dog food he recommends. If you don't have a vet, be sure to get puppy food for a puppy and adult dog food for an adult.

Food and Water Dishes - Make sure you get a size appropriate bowl. If you get a puppy keep in mind that he may grow to be a much larger dog. I recommend stainless steel (some dogs will have allergies or get canine acne from plastic bowls).

Collar and ID Tags - The pet store has a machine that will make an ID tag. If you get a puppy you might need a small collar now and get a larger collar later. Also, don't forget to register your dog with the city (it will prevent you from getting fined). The city will also issue you a tag.

Leash - I buy several leashes for my dogs. When I get a puppy I have a short light weight leash that I keep on them at all times (for quick corrections - puppies love picking stuff up and the leash will give you a chance to keep them away from inappropriate behaviors). I also buy several different lengths for training. I currently have a 4 foot, 10 foot, 20 foot, and flexi leash (the one that retracts back into the handle). I only use the flexi for training.

Chew Toys - This is very important for puppies. Two of my favorite are the Kong and Nylabones. Although not all my dogs/puppies have taken to the Kong. Chew toys are very important as it give you a chance to teach your dog what's appropriate to chew on (kong, nylabone) and what's not (shoes, remote controls, cell phones).

Dog Treats - Dog treats are great for training. Remember this: your dog's training begins as soon as you get him. Whether he's learning correct behavior or incorrect behavior is totally up to you. For instance, if he comes charging and jumps on you and you allow him to do this by rewarding him with pets then he's just learned that jumping on you is a good thing. Probably not a good thing if your new puppy is going to be a 180 pound Saint Bernard.

Dog Bed - All three of my dogs love their dog beds. Make sure you get one that's size appropriate. If you have a Costco nearby they usually have pretty good prices on dog beds.

Crate or Kennel - One of the first things I like to do when brining home a dog or puppy is start him on his crate training. In my opinion it's the easiest way to house train your dog. It's important to get the proper size crate. Make sure it's just big enough for you dog to turn around in. If it's too big then you're dog might decided to try and sleep on one side and eliminate on the other side.

Dog Brush - It's important to get in a regular grooming ritual with your new dog. For one it's a great bonding experience for both of you and second it will remove loose and tangled fur.

Dog Coat - It's funny to say, but perhaps you picked your dog up from a small dog rescue. Some breeds don't have a thick coat of fur and aren't bred for cold weather. To keep them warm you might require a dog coat.

Congratulations! You're A Hero!

Dog Adoptions is a very noble thing to do. I'd like to congratulate you on adopting your first dog. Your not only saving the life of the dog you adopt, but also making room in the shelter for another adoptable dog.