Are Your Kids Trying To Convince You To Keep A Stray Dog? What To Know
Posted on: 21 April 2016
If you have found a stray dog and your kids are trying to convince you to keep it, there are some things you'll want to do before you let it in your home. You want to make sure that the dog is safe and healthy, and you'll want to find out if the dog belongs to someone else. If the dog looks like it hasn't been cared for it some time, you definitely don't want anyone touching it. Here are a few things to consider doing right away.
Report the Lost Dog to the Local Animal Warden
Call the local animal warden about the animal. Ask them if there have been any dogs reported missing in the area. If they haven't heard of anyone looking for a dog with the dog's description, have them take down your name and number in case someone calls. If you are willing to keep the dog, they'll want you to register the dog and get a dog license. To do this, you may need to have the dog vaccinated.
Find a Veterinarian
The dog should be seen by a veterinarian right away. The veterinarian will want to do a temperament test to see how the dog's behavior is, and they'll check the dog's vitals. Since you don't know if the dog has been vaccinated or not, the vet will want to do the annual shots needed to keep the animal safe. They may even want to test the dog's stool for parvovirus. The dog may need medication or special foods if its health is poor to help it gain weight or retain nourishment.
Set a Grooming Appointment
Set an appointment to have the dog bathed, the nails trimmed, teeth brushed, and to have the dog's hair cut if needed. You don't want unnecessary germs around the house, nails scratching the floors, or a dog with bad breath. After this initial cut and cleaning, it should be easier to maintain the dog.
You should always be cautious when taking in a dog that you haven't raised because you don't know how it was treated, and you don't know its behavior. Consider obedience classes if you don't think the dog is a good listener, and if you are looking for a way to bond with the animal. Taking in a stray dog is a great way to keep it away from the pound, and to give the animal love; just make sure you're smart about it. For more information, talk to a vet like Capitol Animal Clinic.
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