With
the holiday season at hand, families are beginning to get into the
spirit. Children are busy making lists and anticipating the gifts
they might receive. Parents, on the other hand, are trying to balance
their desire to make their children happy with what is responsible,
financially feasible, and in the best interests of the entire
family.
Parents
who sneak a peak at their child's carefully hand-lettered list only
to see the word "puppy" may find themselves seriously
considering the possibility. If you are one of those parents, here
are some expert-level pointers to help your gift of a puppy blossom
into a wonderful experience for both your child and their new canine
buddy.
Ensure
the Recipient is Ready
Children
who have never before been tasked with the care of a living creature
may not understand the daily care needs of a dog. Any parent that
considers this type of gift must first determine if their child is
ready for the responsibility.
A
good way to determine your child's actual interest and responsibility
level without taking away the element of surprise is to ask a
dog-owning friend to allow your family to pet sit for them for a
weekend. Parents can use this time to both educate the child on
proper care and gauge whether their child's actual level of interest
and maturity is sufficient for a dog of their own.
Other
ways to instill this information without cluing your child into the
upcoming gift of a puppy, is to take the child along when
volunteering at the local pound and searching for books and videos on
dog care, training, and ownership that you both can share.
Make
the Right Choice for Your Child
Your
child's idea of the right puppy and yours may differ. Before they
decide on a particular breed, parents need to do some research to
ensure the desired choice is feasible. This research should include:
-
Applicable city,
county, or homeowner associations that have existing or planned
restrictions to prevent homeowners from owning certain dog breeds
-
Home insurance
guidelines that may refuse or cancel coverage based on the ownership
of certain dog breeds
-
House and yard size
limitations that could be a problem with some dog breeds when they
reach adulthood
Parents
should also use information on temperament, activity level, potential
health issues, and food requirements to help them choose a puppy that
fits well with their child and the family home.
Avoid
Pet Stores and Unscrupulous Breeders
Another
tip to select a puppy that will be well-socialized, healthy, and
ready to love your child is to consider rescue puppies that have been
successfully fostered, puppies that are available for adoption at
your local shelter, or a puppy from a trusted friend or relative.
If
the parentage is unknown, a caring veterinarian or veterinarian's
assistant can examine the animal and offer advice on the expected
size and weight of the animal, once it reaches adulthood.
Include
the Tools and Supplies Needed
To
successfully gift a puppy to your child, make sure they are properly
supplied and outfitted to help them immediately establish good care
routines.
Along
with the puppy, parents should also ensure that the child is gifted
with:
-
Any leashes,
harnesses, sweaters, and collars they need to care for the dog from
the moment of ownership
-
A crate, dog bed,
or blanket to be used as the puppy's bed and safe space
-
A supply of
high-quality dog food and treats
-
Brushes, combs, and
nail trimmers to keep the dog looking well-groomed
-
A supply of puppy
pads, refuse baggies, and other hygiene needs
A
short, laminated list of care instructions and gift certificates to a
local obedience training class are also very thoughtful gifts for
your child when presented with a puppy.
Invest
in Micro-Chipping
The
ownership of any pet includes the risk that it will become lost or be
stolen. While a properly fitting collar with identification tags can
help, if it is lost or removed, the puppy may be unable to be easily
recognized when found or recovered.
This
is especially worrisome when the puppy is missing for several days
and dirt, injuries, or lost weight help make them difficult to
recognize. The insertion of a tiny, electronic microchip that
transmits their identifying information helps increase the odds that
your child and their dog will be reunited, should this occur.
Handle
Initial Care Needs Before Gifting
If
possible, schedule an initial veterinarian appointment several days
before you plan to present the puppy to your child. Allow the puppy
to undergo a complete physical, have any needed vaccinations, be
micro-chipped, and treated for fleas and other pests well before it
meets your child for the first time.
The
friendly animal care experts at South
Seattle Veterinary Hospital
are
here to help the new puppy and your child get off to a great start.
Rely on us for any concerns about routine care, as well as any
emergency health needs.
