You've decided to get a new pet and planned for their feeding, worming and vaccinations, but what about training and socialisation?
New pups and kittens need a huge amount of stimulus to help them adjust to their lives away from the litter. Plenty of play is one thing, and pups and kittens need lots of toys and attention to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour and to keep them happy. In addition, a positive approach to house training and obedience, with lots of praise for good behaviour, works best and helps most pets to learn fastest - so try to ignore those occasional accidents!
Pets also need a gradual introduction to the world outside, and the younger they are, the better they cope. Although this may seem at odds with the need to keep them away from other animals until they have had their vaccinations, taking them outside to the garden under supervision, and, in the case of pups, for walks in your arms, can help to prevent them developing fears and phobias later in life. Allowing them to experience loud noises and to see traffic helps them to get used to common sights and sounds early on, and at puppy parties young pups can also come into contact with other pups and learn to play and interact on a canine level in a safe environment. This helps to prevent anxiety and aggressive behaviour later on and will make it easier for your pooch to make friends down at the park!
So please get in touch if you want any information about local puppy parties, or any advice on training and socialisation.
