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Show Giving a Pet for Christmas If you've been eyeing a cuddly bundle of fur frolicking in the window of your neighborhood pet shop, with thoughts of the happy surprise it will be for someone, come Christmas morn, there are some important questions you'll want to ask yourself, and answer, before taking a pet home. There are more considerations involved than just "love at first sight", since puppies become dogs in very short order, so it's important to choose one that fits into the home he or she will be part of. Will he or she be living in an apartment or house, will small children be involved, what is your income bracket? Some breeds can't tolerate the rough-housing of little children, some purely bred animals are more tense and independent than others. Buying a pure bred can be expensive to start with, and the first year with any dog involves a license, inoculations, collar, leash, dishes, toys, grooming utensils, and food. The American Kennel Club in New York City will be happy to send you a free list of breeders, if it's a pure bred you're after. For a mixed breed, or possibly a pure bred found straying, try your local SPCA or animal shelter. There is usually a wide range of choices and you'll be saving an unwanted puppy or dog from being "put to sleep." Although male dogs are more popular than females and usually cost more, females will usually adjust to pcthood more readily. And a female can be spayed to spare you the problems of mating and a litter. Look for a clean, glossy coat, white teeth with firm pink gums, eyes that are alert and not runny. Avoid a puppy with a pot belly, it could be a sign of worms, and one with the sniffles or who seems itchy. Any owner or agency should be able to give you proof that the animal has had at least one shot and a deworming. Find out too, as much as you can about the breed and full size of the dog you are adopting. Stop at the veterinarian's on your way home for a thorough going over, and make a date for regular inoculations. A stop at the local shop for leash and collar, dishes, toys and grooming equipment and then it's home for many happy hours of love, devotion and fun! I |
