PETS
tered younger than one year . These are conditions the breed is already susceptible to , but research indicate an increased risk .
It is now recommended that Golden Retrievers , Labradors , German Shepherds , and possibly other large breeds prone to joint problems be spayed or neutered at one year . Preliminary studies on several small breeds do not show increased risks from early spaying and neutering . In some breeds , there is a slight increase in incontinence ( urine leakage ) in females spayed young .
It is advisable to join a pet medical fund early in your puppy ’ s life . Veterinary medicine is an expensive service to provide , and a serious illness or accident can be costly .
If a condition , such as an allergic skin condition or heart disease , is diagnosed before you join , it will be excluded from benefits .
BRINGING HOME YOUR FUR-BABY
Your puppy ’ s first night in his
new home is usually the first time he has to sleep without his mother and littermates . A crate that you can close near your bed is ideal . Get the puppy used to the crate during the day without closing it . Provide soft , warm bedding . It is ideal if you can put something in that smells like his mother . For example , take a soft toy or blanket when you collect him and rub it on his mother . Then put it in his bed . You can add something that smells like his new family members .
Feed him before bedtime and take him outside to do his business before putting him in the crate with a treat . It is important that he forms a positive association with his crate from the start and does not see it as punishment . If he whines , you can reassure him at first , but do not let him think he will get attention every time ; otherwise , it will become a habit . Be prepared for a few restless nights ! If you prefer to let the puppy sleep elsewhere than your bedroom , you can gradually move the crate
55 MARKtoe ! Junie 2024