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After what seems like a long wait you are finally ready to get your new puppy. Preparing for a new puppy is exciting, after all, you are adding to your family. And just like preparing for a human baby, you need to be ready for this little fur-baby.

Planning ahead will make the move to your home easier for the puppy and for you. One of the first things you will want to do is have the puppy checked out by a veterinarian. It’s a good idea to know in advance, what veterinarian you plan to take your puppy to. Some veterinarians will do this first check for free. It is simply to confirm that your puppy is healthy and that the vaccinations are on track. This also gives you an opportunity to ask any questions you may have at that time.

Most breeders will provide a puppy packet which usually includes a sampling of the food the pup is used to and a toy and/or blanket that has been used by the momma dog and the littermates. The scent on these items is comforting to the puppy. Some breeders also include booklets of information related to the care of the puppy.

Your puppy will need a safe environment. He will be curious and he is likely to chew on any and every thing. It is your responsibility to see that he is kept in an area that is safe. A puppy play pen works well for this. These are flexible in shape and even in size. They are large enough to have a place for a bed, a place for food and water, a play area, and a place for the puppy pad. Many people find that dog crates can come in handy at times.

Because your puppy will want to be with you as much as possible you will probably find it convenient to have at least two or three dog beds for him. Put these in strategic places that you spend a lot of time, spots that will be close to you.

Grooming supplies are essential. At minimum you will need a dog shampoo and a brush. But keep in mind that dogs do not need bathes as often as humans; in fact, you should not bath your dog more than one time per week unless it is absolutely necessary.

Every puppy needs toys. You can make your own with pieces of rope, old toys, or even an old sock with a tennis ball in it. Or you can buy actual dog toys such as the squeaky toys or stuffed animals made especially for dogs. As long as you provide all the essentials, including food, water, playtime and love, your puppy will be happy.

Preparations For Bringing Your Puppy Home courtesy Dog Articles.

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In your mind you and your dog are traveling down the road in a convertible. The top is down and you and your dog are letting the wind blow through your hair (and fur) as you drive off into the sunset. It’s a beautiful fantasy. Unfortunately, in real life, your dog drools, whines and throws up every time you try to put him in the car. A quick trip to the vet for his shots leaves him shaking and staring at you like you’re going to have him put to sleep. Taking your dog on an actual vacation would probably mean the end of your relationship.

What have you done to deserve this? Why does your dog hate to travel? And, is there anything you can do to make things better?

Contrary to popular belief, carsickness and travel anxiety can occur in any dog. Even puppies that are introduced to riding in cars at a very young age may develop into bad travelers. Some dogs simply seem to be more anxious by nature than other dogs. Certainly socialization in all forms will help to create a more secure, more confident dog, which can decrease anxiety in general. But if your dog becomes anxious about traveling in the car it’s going to take some work to help him get over his carsickness problems.

If you have a puppy or young dog do try to make the car a fun place for them, especially when you aren’t going anywhere. Play with your puppy in the car or van. Spend time there that isn’t associated with traveling. Let it be a place for games and playtime. That way, when you put your dog in the car or van to go on a short trip, your dog will associate the vehicle with good things. That good attitude may help a little.

Whether you have a puppy or a dog that is already experiencing some travel problems, go for very short trips. Drive around the block. Go back home before your puppy or dog can develop any bad reaction to the trip. Praise your puppy or dog and give them treats. You can do this several times a week, gradually making the trips a little longer. Most puppies will be fine with this routine and develop into great little travelers. If you have a dog which is already showing signs of being a bad traveler you should monitor him carefully to see how far you can drive before he starts having problems. See if you can slowly help him get a little further each time but don’t push things too far or make him uncomfortable. Carsickness is a very real, physical problem and if your dog is carsick he can’t help it.

Keep in mind that once a dog has been sick in your car that the odor will linger for quite a while. You may stop noticing it but your dog can still detect it. The scent of it may contribute to making him sick again so be sure to try to thoroughly clean any carsickness accidents in your vehicle. This will help your dog do better the next time you make an attempt.

If your dog isn’t improving by trying to gradually lengthen his trips in the car you can try some natural remedies. One of the old favorites uses ginger cookies or any kind of cookie or treat with ginger. Ginger is a traditional home remedy for settling an upset stomach and it works well for dogs as well as humans.

Some people recommend pheromones. Comfort Zone with D.A.P (Dog Appeasing Pheromone) has helped some dogs by reducing anxiety.

Herbal and nutritional remedies are also popular. Composure Liquid by Vetri-Science has been used with success by some owners. Nutricalm has also worked to reduce anxiety for some dogs.

Some people prefer the Bach Flower Essences, such as Rescue Remedy.

If the natural remedies don’t work for you and your dog you may wish to try the over-the-counter anti-nausea drug Dramamine. Dramamine helps many dogs who don’t travel well. If your dog still has problems with traveling you should consult your veterinarian. He or she may prescribe something stronger for anxiety, such as Valium or Serax.

You don’t have to give up your dream of traveling with your dog but it may take a little work to get the two of you on the road together.

My Dog Hates To Travel courtesy Dog Articles.

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