When you have a Dog that is pining for a little canine companionship, it can be really easy just to head to the rehoming center and pick up a new pooch. But ensuring everyone at home is happy with the new addition isn’t nearly so easy. Sure, they might have got on great at first. Now you need to remember these 6 essentials to make sure everyone stays happy and healthy!
- Preventative Medicines
You might need to give your current pet their treatment before the next one is due for your new pet. After all, the rehoming center usually takes care of that on the day you pick them up. Check with your veterinarian how to sync the two to make it easier to remember. Use options like Heartgard for dogs that is simple to administer for both your pets, regardless of any difference in weight.
- Overeating
Dogs like to assert their authority over each other. In fact, when your newest pet arrives, there may be a few tussles while a ‘pecking’ order is established. This is common, but one of the most difficult tussles for you to manage is the one over food. If one of your pets feels it is necessary to sit back while the other eats, there is a chance that both portions will be gobbled up! Keep an eye on this and feed separately if necessary.
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- Physical Tantrums
Beyond food fights, there can be growling, barking, and even hitting. Behavioral training can help a lot here, so look up some local classes. Separating the dogs for a while can help too. Of course, if this behavior is directed at the humans in the house, this is a much bigger problem and must be addressed immediately.
- More Chores For You
Having another pet around means there is another pet to keep clean! This takes extra energy and time on your part. If both your dogs are large breeds, you might also need to walk them separately or wait for some more human help. You’ll have double the work to do picking up after them as well.
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- Discounts For Doubles
A good veterinary practice offers a Discount or even just a single consultancy fee for bringing both animals in together. However, there will be separate bills for any medication or treatments required. And if you need professional grooming, you may have to haggle for a loyalty discount!
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- Give It Time
Do you remember how long it took you to build up trust in your dog not to destroy your house when you went out? You need to start all this again with your new pet. Build up your time away little by little. You need to consider how their behavior will also affect your current canine. What can you do if they fight in your absence? Make sure both have their own spaces where they feel safe. Have you considered using a pet monitor? What are the biggest challenges you might face with a second dog?
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