Ten Must-Haves for Your Newly Adopted Pup

Did you know that April 30^th is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day? This day was created to raise awareness of the millions of animals sitting in shelters every day awaiting their forever home. In fact, approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter US animal shelters every year, and 3.3 million of those are dogs. So, if you are looking to bring home a furry, cuddly family member, we can’t think of a better day to do it! To help you prepare for your new addition, we have compiled this list of ten must haves for your newly adopted pup.

1. Breed- and Size-Appropriate Dog Food

Puppies need different nutrients than adult dogs, and small breeds have different needs than large breeds. Your dog’s nutrition (or lack thereof) will affect energy levels, quality of life, and lifespan. Ask your shelter rep questions about his feeding and nutrition while he’s been in their care. What have they been feeding him? How does he tolerate it? Do they have any recommendations? We found this article from the American Kennel Club on Choosing the Best Dog Food to be helpful for new pet owners. When trying new dog food, be sure to stock up on carpet cleaner (see must-have #4), as sometimes new food can upset the tummy.

2. Appropriately Sized Water Bowl

If you are adopting a large dog, your dog is going to need a large water bowl. There should always be fresh water available, especially during the upcoming hot, summer days. If you frequently find the water bowl empty, it’s probably time to size up! In general, an average dog needs to drink between 8.5 to 17 ounces of water per 10 pounds (55 to 110 milliliters per kilogram) per day.

3. Safe Chew Toys

Dogs love chew toys. Not only does chewing trigger the release of endorphins, it also helps with teeth cleaning. If you’re getting a puppy, a safe and appropriate chew toy can help them get through the difficult teething period – and it may save you a couple of pairs of shoes! Make sure you monitor your dog with new toys to ensure they are enjoying them safely. Check out this article from The Humane Society for safe toy suggestions.

4. Carpet Cleaner with Pro-Enzymatic Technology

We love our pets, but they sometimes create not-so-lovely messes. Whether you’re adopting a puppy or an adult dog, you’re bound to encounter a mess or two. Carpet cleaning solutions with enzymes literally EAT AWAY biological messes from pee, puke, poop, blood and other organic stains. Rug Doctor offers several pet solutions to address your unique pet mess cleaning needs. Rug Doctor Pure Power Urine Eliminator is a bio-based pet stain and odor removing spray perfect to keep on hand to quickly eliminate pet stains and accidents. For deeper pet stains, try our Pure Power Pet Stain and Odor Spot Cleaner, a concentrated bio-based formula that pairs perfectly with our Pet Portable Spot Cleaner. This spot cleaner is specifically designed to make pet cleanup quick and easy. The handheld dual-action pet tool features rubberized bristles that remove loose pet hair while also extracting dirt, stains, accidents and pet messes from carpet and soft surfaces. Cleaning both hard and soft surfaces? We‘ve got you covered with our All-In-One Pet Concentrated Floor Cleaner, a pro-enzymatic formula for both carpet and sealed hard floors engineered to tackle messes with our powerful FlexClean All-In-One Floor Cleaner.

5. Dog Lovey

You may be familiar with the term “lovey” from its association with babies. This refers to a security blanket, toy or any object a baby or toddler uses for comfort and soothing. They’ll take it everywhere! Well, the same idea works for your new pup. Get them a special blanket or toy to help them with their transition into your home. Let them sleep with it, take it on car rides, and have it ready in stressful situations (like vet trips!). It will provide a sense of home and security to help comfort and ease your dog’s nerves.

6. Trustworthy Veterinarian

One of the first things you want to do is schedule an office visit for your pup with a local veterinarian. On your first visit, take special note of the cleanliness of the facility, the friendliness of the staff, and your dog’s comfort level with the vet. Your first choice doesn’t have to be your final. Just as you wouldn’t settle for a physician that you didn’t like, don’t make your dog settle for a vet he doesn’t like. Feel free to shop around until you find the perfect match.

7. Crate or Plastic Kennel

A create or plastic kennel can become your dog’s home within your home. Not only will it provide a safe and cozy sleep space, crates give your dog a safe space to retreat to when they feel anxious or fearful. Providing them a safe, familiar, personal space can be very beneficial when it comes to traveling, vet or groomer visits, or other away-from-home stays. Crates can also aide in house training your new pup. For tips on crate training, check out this crate training guide from The Humane Society. Crates, especially the larger crates for large breeds, can be pretty costly. If you need something to help house train while you save up for a crate, try dog potty pads. This expose’ from Rover.com discusses the pros and cons of using dog potty pads for house training.

8. Collar with Identification Tag

There are so many choices when it comes to dog collars. The two most important things to remember are to get the right fit and make sure it has an ID tag. When deciding on fit, the collar should be snug but not tight. When fastened, you should be able to get two fingers underneath the collar. It is super important for your dog’s collar to have identification tag. 1 in 3 pets will become lost in their lifetime and an ID tag can be extremely helpful in getting your pup returned to you. Include your cell number, an alternative cell number (close friend or family member), your address, and a personal note – “Help, I’m lost and miss my mommy!”

9. Yummy Treats

Who doesn’t love treats? Whether you purchase treats in-store or choose to make them at home, treats provide more than a yummy snack for your pup. Treats will encourage bonding and also aide in house and skill training. Get a variation of flavors to learn what your dog likes best. Just don’t overdo it – treats should make up no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. It is good to mention the importance of must-have #4 here – pro-enzymatic carpet cleaner. Because sometimes new treats upset the tummy, and you want to be prepared for accidents.

10. Exercise Plan

Exercise for your pup is just as important as exercise is for you. Look at it this way: now you have a workout partner! Exercise can help with joints, digestion, weight maintenance, and other health and behavioral problems. Be prepared to exercise your dog at least 30 minutes every day. If you are away from your animal during the day, research dog walkers in your area to help. Read this article from PetMD to get the 411 on exercising with your Dog.

Congratulations on your adoption! Don’t forget to pick up Rug Doctor carpet cleaning solutions to make pet cleanup fast and easy, so you can get back to having fun with your new best friend.