Vizsladogs, Ltd.
Puppy's First Night
This article, first printed in the Vizsla-Letter April 1995,
was compiled by Patty Mead from various sources including
canine magazines, pamphlets at the vets, and through discussions
with breeders and vets. If you want to add things to this list,
please send Ingle & Mead an email note with your
comments.
The Vizsla puppy arrives, what do you do? The little nervous,
shy, confused, scared dog is entrusted to your capable hands.
This poor little creature is unable to do for itself and must
rely on you for all of its care (except going potty which they do
just fine on their own, thank you). In addition, from the puppies
point of view, it has just been snatched from its pack, familiar
smells and sounds, and has been dropped into the middle of a
stranger's house. This list of suggestions gives ideas on how to
ensure your young puppy will be acclimated to its new
surrounding:
-Have everything prepared BEFORE you bring the puppy home.
-Prior to home arrival you should have spent some time at the
breeder's place getting to know your puppy and allowing it to
become familiar with your smell.
-One idea is to bring a toy/stuffed animal/blanket to the
whelping box so that when you pick up your puppy, you can bring
the toy home with you covered with familiar smells.
-Have some chewies/toys ready for the puppy (not a hard bone
ready to splinter).
-Have available a food and water bowl that can be easily cleaned
and not tipped over.
-Have food ready to match what the puppy has been getting.
-Put a proper sized collar (not a choke chain!) with id tag on
the puppy.
-Have a lightweight leash.
-Have sleeping arrangements already set (dog bed, crate, your
queen size bed, etc.).
-Sleeping quarters should be warm, draft-free, indoors.
-Help make your puppy feel secure; initially no loud noises,
sudden moves, or visits from lots of friends.
-Allow time to get to know one another (some folks get puppies
arranged around a vacation so that some dedicated time can be
spent with the little fur ball).
-Every puppy should have a place of its own (such as a crate with
soft bedding).
-Every puppy place should be safe (e.g., no plastic bags lying
around, no chewable electrical cords, etc).
-Get your puppy to your vet for inspection and any shots due.
We're sure your breeder will make additional recommendations.
Follow their advice, if in doubt about advice given, check with
your veterinarian. The breeder and vet are motivated to make sure
the puppy receives a good home, and that you not only create a
loving environment for the puppy but also a healthy one. Both
groups of people are generally good sources for advice.
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