Busy Person's Guide to Getting a Dog

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Busy Person’s Guide to Getting a Dog Everything you ever wanted to know about what it’s really like to get a dog

Sponsored by the friendly vets at Vetted PetCare

So, you want to get a dog?

Dogs are awesome! They’re derpy and they’re snuggly and they’re really good for increasing your likes on Insta.

They’re also a lot of work. Whether you had a dog when you were a kid or you’re a total doggo novice, it’s good to know what you’re getting yourself into before you pull the trigger on a pup. And if you already got a dog last weekend? Well, don’t panic. There’s plenty of useful information here in our Busy Person’s Guide to Getting a Dog to help you get all set up.

Information is power. Let’s get empowered.

Table of Contents 1

Questions to Ask Before You Get a Dog

2

How to Choose the Right Dog

3

Before You Bring Your Dog Home

4

Bringing Your Dog Home

5

The Vet: Who, What, Where, When, Why

6

Housebreaking Your Dog

7

Keeping Your Dog in Shape

8

Taking Your Dog Out in Public

1 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Get a Dog Like any big life decision, whether to get a dog or not should be weighed carefully. But how is a dog really going to impact your life, and how do you know if you’re really ready?

Ask yourself these six questions before you actively start looking for dogs, and be honest! When you lie to yourself about your real ability to commit, only one individual suffers. (Hint: It’s the dog.) How much time do I have to give to a dog, honestly? Getting a dog will add a minimum of 10 extra hours a week of work to your life. Between walks, feeding, training, and playtime, be realistic about whether or not your days and weekends are already packed. Can I commit to this dog? When you get a dog, you’re making a promise to make that dog a priority in your life. Are you unsure where you’ll be in five years? Or even in one year? If you can’t commit to where to get takeout tonight, you probably aren’t ready to make the kind of commitment that lasts a decade or more. Do I have enough money right now for a dog? If you think you can provide for your dog on love alone, you’re going to have one hungry dog. Dogs aren’t cheap: Estimates range from $1000 for the first year to $500 every year after that, but TBH, those sound low to us. Consider medical care, food, supplies, and boarding, among all the extras you’ll undoubtedly want to buy. Will anyone be helping me take care of the dog? Don’t just assume your roommate will be cool with walking the dog before her shift; ask! And if you have the money to send your dog to doggy day care? Good for you! Better reach out to see if there are any openings before you count on having a spot. What kind of dog do I want? Okay, now what kind of dog do I need? Ask yourself why you want a dog. Is it to have a running partner? A chill bud to take with you to festivals? To give yourself someone to Netflix and Snuggle with? There’s no wrong reason to get a dog, but there is such a thing as getting the wrong kind of dog for your reason. More on this in a minute. Do I actually want a dog or do I just like the idea of a dog? It’s easy to fall in love with a photo of a rescue dog online and get carried away. It’s just as easy to scroll through endless photos of friends with dogs on social media then think to yourself, “Awwww, I want a dog!” Be sure you want a living, breathing animal, not an accessory.

2 How to Choose the Right Dog You passed the quiz? Awesome! Now you’re 100% ready to take care of another living being. (Haha, just joking. No one’s ever really ready for that.) Now let’s talk about the kind of dog you should get…and no, we don’t want to hear your argument about how cute dachshunds look in sweaters.

Choosing a Breed Most people start their dog search by choosing a breed, or at least a dog size. This is smart. Dog breed characteristics aren’t universally applicable, but they can usually provide a general idea of what to expect later down the line. Of course, every dog is different regardless of breed.

There are plenty of sources of information on qualities and characteristics of different breeds however, keep in mind the source of your information and always be critical in your assessment.

The internet, as a free medium that is not censored or edited, contains plenty of outdated and incorrect statements along with factual data about dog breeds. Also, keep in mind information from certain individuals who may benefit economically from you adopting a certain dog or breed. If it is in these sources’ best interest that your obtain a dog, they may downplay some of the challenges or risks in caring for them as pets. Be mindful of both the potential positive and negative characteristics of certain breeds/types of dogs. Before you make your decision, be assured that you are willing to deal with any potentially difficult aspects of living with this animal. — Dr. Sabrina Meldrum

When considering a breed (or when inquiring about a dog’s general characteristics when adopting), it’s a good idea to factor in the following: Size of breed - How big will this dog get? Maintenance of breed - Does this dog need lots of brushing or grooming? Health of breed - Is this breed prone to breathing issues or ear infections? Lifespan of breed - How long does this kind of dog usually live? Exercise requirements of breed - Does this kind of dog like to run a 5K every day? Temperament of breed - Can these dogs be aggressive with other dogs, or overly excitable?

There are plenty of great resources online for finding out everything you ever wanted to know about each recognized dog breed. We suggest starting with the size of the breed (so you can determine whether your home is large enough) then factoring in exercise requirements and temperament. Although all breeds have “minor” differences (like whether or not they shed), the “big three” breed characteristics are usually enough to narrow down your search: size, temperament, and maintenance. Rescue vs. Purchase Adopting a rescue dog is a noble pursuit. Nearly 4,000,000 dogs enter animal shelters each and every year, and they rely on the compassion of people like you to find homes. When you adopt a dog, you may or may not have access to potentially useful information such as exact breed, adult size, and health history. That said, it’s important to understand the potential challenges that come with rescue dogs. Not having knowledge of a pet’s full genetic background could potentially make medical conditions, long-term temperament, and activity levels more difficult to predict. You will need to consult carefully with shelter employees/rescue agency workers to determine whether these dogs have the right personality to be your pooch. Purchasing a dog from a breeder or regulated pet store is another option. In theory, this allows you to control the specific breed and size dog you’ll end up with. It also makes it simpler to determine your dog’s complete medical history, especially if it’s a puppy.

Buying a dog isn’t foolproof, either. First, it’s important to be absolutely sure you’re purchasing your pet from a breeder or store who can verify the conditions where the dog was born and raised. Arranging to see the area(s) where puppies are kept, as well as being able to see both Mom and Dad of the litter, is ideal. Although adopting a dog may come with nominal adoption fees, purchasing one will almost certainly set you back hundreds or potentially even thousands of dollars. Keep this in mind when considering the overall cost of your new pet, including ongoing medical care.

3 Before You Bring Your Dog Home Your dog needs stuff. Not, like, an automatic water machine, but actual equipment to help make his (and your) life easier. Here’s a list of the stuff you absolutely, positively need to buy before your dog steps foot in your house:

Bed: You may choose for your dog to sleep in his crate (he won’t mind!) but you could also consider a cozy bed for napping or just laying around. Removable, washable covers are a plus. Toys/Chews/Comfort Items: No need to go nuts, but buy a few items your dog can bond with right away. Skip anything too destructible or too complicated before you get a feel for your pooch’s temperament. Grooming Supplies: You’ll want a moisturizing shampoo, some nail clippers, and maybe a brush, at minimum. Most of this stuff can wait until you talk to your vet, though. First Vet Appointment: If you get your new dog on Saturday, you should make an appointment to see the vet on Monday to check his overall health and create a plan for vaccines, spay/neuter, and ongoing preventative care.

Leash & Harness: You need this from minute one to make sure your dog stays put. We prefer harnesses over collars and adequate leashes. And don’t forget the ID tag with your contact info! Food/Water Bowls: Stainless steel is easier to clean than ceramic, and also less breakable. Food: Puppies are too young to accompany you shopping without risking infection. Pick up a bag of food before you bring Fido home. Crate: Crate training is a good way to help your dog adjust and to get him housetrained quickly. A crate which is adjustable in size, and will be big enough to fit your adult-sized dog is what you want.

Just as important as outfitting your dog supply bin is dog-ifying your space. To do this, think like a dog. Is there anything at puppy-level he really shouldn’t be chewing on, like blinds cords or electrical wires? If there are rooms you don’t want your dog in, you might think about buying a standard baby gate to help train him on your limits. One surefire way to make sure your home is puppy-proof is to have your vet make a house call as soon as you bring home your dog. They can walk through your space with you and help point out any potential dangers they see.

STOP

Do you live in an apartment?

STOP

Getting a dog when you live in an apartment opens up a whole separate can of worms. Here are a few things you’ll want to think about if you live in an apartment, condo, or other multi-family dwelling. Does your landlord allow dogs? And if so, is there a deposit? Are there restrictions on weight limit or on which breed you can own? Is your apartment big enough for a dog? That 400-square foot studio may be cute, but it could feel confining if you plan to leave your dog home all day. Where will your dog use the bathroom? Are there any natural area(s) nearby, and is it shared with other dogs? (If so, you’ll need somewhere separate until your puppy is fully vaccinated.) Is there an elevator, and will you need to use it to take your dog out? If you live in a walk-up, can the kind of dog you want handle the stairs? If not, are you willing to carry him? Do you have roommates, and are they cool with you getting a dog? Not, like, “Oh, dogs are fun!” but like, “Yes, I am equally committed to adding a furry friend to our lease.”

4 Bringing Your Dog Home Okay, so you’re ready to bring your dog home. Happy day!

Whether you’re picking him up from a breeder, a pet store, or the adoption organization, bring the following with you: Leash and collar/harness with ID tag Your own picture ID A few old towels for the car A travel crate, if you’re going to use one

A little time spent making your space inviting is a surefire way to acclimate your pooch. If you can help it, bring your dog home during the day so he can see his surroundings and get used to your house before bedtime. Set up his bed (or other cozy nook) with a few toys and blankets – a great spot is in the corner of the living room or another space you don’t mind hanging out. When you get home, expect curiosity. Your dog will want to sniff every corner of his new surroundings and he may even pee a little to mark his territory! That’s normal – just be sure you’ve designated a contamination-free zone for him to use the bathroom outdoors before The Big Day. If you’re getting a puppy or a dog that isn’t fully vaccinated, you’ll need to wait several weeks before allowing him around other dogs or even around other people to limit his risk of exposure. That means no dog parks, no heavily-populated restaurants, and no shared grassy areas that may have been used by other dogs. That first week is going to be an adjustment period for both of you. Expect a lot of whining, some nighttime crying, and a lot of problematic behaviors that haven’t been worked out just yet. It will take your dog – and you! – some time to learn the rules, and to get the lay of the land. If you can do it, it’s a good idea to take a few days or even a week off work the week you bring your doggo home. It’s not a good idea for anyone’s mental health for you to bring your dog home on a Sunday then go back to work for 10 hours a day starting Monday, ya’ heard?

5 The Vet: Who, What, When, Where, Why Aim to schedule your first vet appointment the day after your new furry friend comes home, or as soon as possible. Picked up a puppy on the fly? (PROTIP: Don’t do this!) Schedule an appointment as soon as you can.

Choosing a Vet Ideally, the relationship you build with your vet will be long-term. It’s important that your veterinarian be friendly, be pleasant, and that they know what they’re talking about! You’re going to spend a lot of time around this vet, so make sure you (and your dog) like them. It’s smart to consider your vet’s hours and location. If they’re only open M-F from 9:00-5:00, you’re going to have to take off work to take in your pooch. For a lot of busy dog owners, in-home vet services like Vetted PetCare are ideal. Having a licensed vet come right to your door on your own schedule is the ultimate convenience. What does it mean when a vet is “licensed?” All veterinarians have to have a bachelor’s degree and a Degree of Veterinary Medicine from an accredited institution to be eligible to take the national licensing exam (called the NAVLE.) Most states in addition also require vets to take state-specific board examinations to be licensed to practice in that state. Veterinarians can also hold additional certifications in specialties like dental medicine or even exotic pet care.

There are just as many types of veterinarians and veterinary practices as there are breeds of dogs. Like choosing your new pet, it’s important to find the best fit for your new vet! Keep in mind things like opening hours and availability, location/convenience, communication (how easy is it to reach your vet or clinic when you have a need?), and obviously how well you and your dog get along with your new veterinary team. Some people want to have lots of time to spend with their vet to get all their questions answered, some busy on-the-go owners may be happy with short 10-15 minute appointment time slots. Are there cats in the waiting room that may upset or excite your dog? Giving the practice a call on the phone can answer some of your questions and give you a feel for the type of services they provide. — Dr. Sabrina Meldrum

1

How Often Will Your Pet Need to go to the Vet? Good question. When your dog is very young, he’ll need to see the vet around once a month until his vaccines are completed. During their first year of life, most dogs visit the vet at least half-a-dozen times.

The good news is, the need to see a veterinarian evens out after your dog is out of the “puppy” phase. Unless there are any underlying health issues, your dog may be okay with seeing the vet only once a year for his annual wellness check. Most dog owners encounter an issue or two on an annual basis that need to involve the vet, though, like a rotten tooth or a sprained knee. A Guide to Canine Vaccinations There are core vaccines and then there are non-core vaccines. Core vaccines are considered by veterinarians to be essential; you should consider making sure your dog gets these vaccines one of your primary responsibilities as a pet parent. Non-core vaccines are also important, but not every dog has to have them. Talk to your vet about your dog’s specific risk factors. Every state has its own laws for vaccinations. Up-to-date rabies vaccinations are a legal requirement for owning a dog in every state. Puppy’s Age

Recommended Vaccinations

Optional Vaccinations

6-8 weeks

Distemper, measles, parainfluen

Bordetella

10-12 weeks

DHPP

Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme Dis.

12-24 weeks

Rabies

None

14-16 weeks

DHPP

Coronavirus, Lyme Disease, Leptospirosis

12-16 months

Rabies, DHPP

Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme Dis.

Every 1-2 years

DHPP

Coronavirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme Dis.

Every 1-3 years

Rabies (as required by law)

None

Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworm No matter where you live, you’ll need to work with your vet to actively prevent your dog from contracting fleas, ticks, and heartworm. The good news is, it’s relatively easy. You’ve got multiple options for protection, from a pill to an on-the-skin application. Most flea/tick/heartworm meds have to be given monthly, and are typically prescription-only. Your vet can help you determine which brand and style will work best for your particular dog.

Your dog’s parasite prevention needs may vary depending on their lifestyle and activity. The relative risk of certain parasites, as well as the potential diseases they can carry and transmit to your pooch, may also vary based on your geographic area. It is extremely important for your pet’s long-term health to discuss these with your veterinarian, and work together to develop a long-term preventative care plan for your pet. — Dr. Sabrina Meldrum

Spaying/Neutering

A few of the most common doggy health problems include:

Spaying or neutering your dog is the responsible choice. To “spay” a female dog means to surgically remove her ovaries and uterus so she cannot reproduce; to “neuter” a male dog is to remove his testicles.

Viruses (like Parvovirus)

Most vets recommend spaying/neutering at a young age, usually before their first heat cycle for females, or around/just prior to the six-month mark. The procedure is surgical, meaning your dog will have to be put under anesthesia. Recovery time is nominal and most dogs are back to normal after only a couple of weeks.

Gastric Distress

Deciding to neuter your animal could very well prolong his life. Spayed/neutered dogs have a lower incidence of some cancers, and they tend to have fewer problems with certain behavioral issues. Contrary to popular belief, spaying/neutering your dog will not make him embarrassed or make him fat. Keeping Your Dog Healthy Just like people, dogs get sick. They come down with colds and get urinary tract infections. Sometimes they get infections or break a bone. It’s critically important to have a trusted veterinarian on-call so when your dog needs medical attention, you’re ready. In addition to your regular vet, you’ll want to write down the name/number of a 24-hour emergency vet near where you live and keep it close where you can reference it quickly, just in case. In addition to coordinating routine preventative care together with your vet, you should also consider your dog’s nutrition and exercise regimen as part of your pet’s overall well-being. More details on these later; but for now, just be mindful that both are key elements in your pet’s comprehensive health plan.

Kidney Disease Heartworm Poisoning Infection Serious odor (usually from the ear or mouth) Urinary Issues Diarrhea/Vomiting Skin Issues Sudden Behavioral Changes

STOP

Are you too busy to go to the vet?

STOP

Dozens of factors keep people from the vet, but neglecting your dog’s health could make his – and your – life more uncomfortable. Thankfully, there’s a solution.

Vetted PetCare is an at-home veterinary service based out of Los Angeles, California. Licensed vets come directly to your home to save you the hassle of schlepping across town to the veterinarian every time your pet gets sick. Your dog will like it better, too. What can Vetted PetCare vets do? Our friendly team can administer vaccines, thoroughly examine your dog, take lab samples, and even help with end-of-life care. Unless it requires large or specialty equipment, your vet can perform most procedures in the comfort of your home. In-home vet visits are more affordable than you think. With single appointment pricing as well as comprehensive annual coverage, you have options when it comes to saving money on medical care for your dog. And because veterinary care isn’t ever as simple as a single visit? Vetted provides video follow ups so your trusted vet can check on your pet and answer all your questions even weeks after your appointment has passed.

Vetted PetCare vets schedule appointments from 8am – 8pm, so you never have to worry about missing work to take care of your dog. Find out more at VettedPetCare.com

6 Housebreaking Your Dog Housebreaking, housetraining, potty training…there are a lot of names for it, but you

they’re fully housetrained. This is called “crate training,” and the method is simple. More on that in a moment. Reward Never scold your dog when they have an accident indoors. Study after study has shown that rewarding your puppy with praise and/or treats when he goes when and where he’s supposed to is far more effective. You don’t want to make your dog afraid to go to the bathroom.

need to teach your dog how to stop using the bathroom indoors. Start early, but don’t expect too much too soon if your dog is a puppy. Most dogs aren’t fully housetrained until they’re at least 4-6 months old. Roll up the rugs!

There are dozens of theories on how to housetrain “correctly.” There’s no one right way, so it’s important to do what works for you and for your dog. In general, the main tenets of housetraining are to: schedule, supervise, confine, and reward. Schedule Get your dog on a feeding/walking/sleeping schedule as soon as possible. Dogs love routine, so establishing a place to use the bathroom outdoors, a time for walks, and a reliable schedule for feeding is the first step towards becoming potty trained. Supervise The first few weeks (months!) after your dog comes home, you’ll need to supervise him closely. Over time, you’ll learn to spot your dog’s “about to go” behaviors like retreating into corners or pacing in front of the door. Confine Most veterinarians recommend confining your dog at night and while you’re away, at least until

Successfully potty training your puppy depends on your ability to maintain a consistent schedule, provide plenty of opportunities for your puppy to perform the behavior you want (which takes time), and to perceive your pet's body language to know when it's 'time'. Positively praising your puppy whenever they do the right thing (eliminating where you want) is always helpful, and can only serve to strengthen your bond. — Dr. Sabrina Meldrum

The Scoop on Crate Training

Step

3

Crate training is all about creating a safe, comfortable space for your dog…inside a crate! You’ll want a crate that’s adjustable so it can grow with your dog. For crate training to work, your dog shouldn’t have much more than room to stand up, sit up, and turn around. Step

1

Leave your house with your dog inside the crate. Start small! He’ll whine at first, and there may even be accidents. Eventually your dog will learn not to soil in the crate while you’re out.

Introduce your dog to the crate. Don’t close the door at first, and take it day by day. You may try feeding him a treat or even offering water and meals in the crate to make him feel positive and safe inside it.

Step

4

The hardest part for some dogs and the easiest part for others: crating at night. Again, expect accidents, but don’t give up. Crate training is a process and it can take weeks for your dog to get it right.

Step

2

Create more confinement around the crate. That means you’ll eventually start closing the door, and doing so for longer periods of time. It’s not a bad idea to be nearby when beginning this process so your dog can still see and smell you.

Never reprimand your dog if he soils his crate; it’s uncomfortable for him, too. Take him outside to eliminate the second you get home, and never punish your dog by making him “go to his crate.”

As a general rule, you don’t want your dog to spend more than about 8 hours a day in his crate!

STOP

STOP

Are you away from home all day?

If you have a job, the answer is probably, “Well…duh.” That’s okay. Lots of dog owners are away from home a lot of the time! Here’s how to do it right. Come home as often as you can during the day, even if that means taking an extra-long lunch sometimes. It’s good for your dog to get a little human interaction.

If you can’t come home for lunch, factor in the cost of a daily dog-walker. Even if you can housetrain

your dog to last 8-10 hours without having an accident, he’s going to get bored and stir-crazy.

Think about doggy daycare, too.

For high-energy breeds, having room to roam and lots of stimulation isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must.

Watch for signs that your dog

is getting depressed. Is he acting out? Destroying things? Having “accidents” when he’s fully trained? You may need to switch the routine.

When you are home, give your dog plenty of attention. Dogs need at least one hour of dedicated play time a day,

and that’s outside of regular walks.

Don’t beat yourself up. Dogs sleep anywhere from 12-16 hours a day, and yours will probably spend most of the time you’re gone napping, anyway.

7

Most dog owners feed their dog once in the morning and once at night. Some dogs “graze” on food throughout the day, but this can easily lead to overeating. It is advised for your dog to have fresh, clean water available at all times.

Keeping Your Dog in Shape Did you know that over 50% of dogs in the U.S. are considered obese or overweight? Don’t let your dog be one of them. Dogs aren’t “big-boned” and they’re not “naturally chubby.” Your dog will follow your lead when it comes to the healthy habits you set for him. Be sure you’re thinking it through.

Feeding Your Dog There are hundreds of different dog foods on the market. From processed dry food to refrigerated wet food, the options run the gamut. Some (really ambitious) people even choose to prepare their own dog food. There are a few factors to consider when selecting the right food for your dog. His age, his weight, and his dietary requirements are a few of the most important. Talk to your vet about the different aspects of food (i.e. grain content, protein percentage, etc.) and remember, you may have to try several diets before you get it right. Dogs have preferences, too, so if you find a healthy food he likes, stick with it. All commercial dog foods offer guidelines for how much food to give your dog. Follow them! (On average, a dog needs around 30 calories/day per pound of weight, but your dog might need more or less depending on exercise and body chemistry.) On average, most pets will be able to maintain an appropriate weight by feeding according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, but always discuss your pet’s specific dietary needs with your vet before beginning or changing any new diet.

Things your dog should never, ever eat Chocolate Bones Candy Alcohol/Pot Onions/Garlic Grapes/Raisins Raw Meat/Eggs Avocadoes Caffeine Macadamia Nuts

Exercising Your Dog

Just like humans, our four-legged friends need adequate exercise in order to feed a healthy mind and body. The amount and type of exercise that’s best for your pet may vary, but in general, we often find the best activities are those that provide both mental and physical stimulation for your dog.

— Dr. Sabrina Meldrum

Just like people, dogs can become lazy. It’s important that your dog get plenty of exercise and yes, even when it’s raining. You’ll probably need to spend at least an hour a day (30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening) walking your dog, if not more. If your dog “doesn’t like to exercise,” you’ll need to push him a little. (He’ll start to enjoy it, promise.) Getting a dog used to the leash is usually the first exercising hurdle most dog owners face. It’s a good idea to start with just the collar, and to start as early as possible. As your dog warms up to the collar, try walking him around the house with his leash on. Once he’s ready, take him outside for short walks and reward him often. If he doesn’t want to walk on his leash at first, don’t force him! How much exercise (i.e. walking, running, playing) your dog needs varies by his age, his breed, his size, and his food intake. Working breed dogs like Labradors and Collies need more exercise than, say, English Bulldogs. Smooshy dogs, skinny dogs, lazy dogs…they all need exercise! Most vets recommend between 30-120 minutes a day of activity for dogs. A lot of people find it easiest to incorporate their dog’s exercise routine into their own. You may want to consider this when choosing what kind of dog to get! Big dogs, for example, are naturally better at running if you want your dog to accompany you during marathon training. Just remember that though dogs can be very athletic, you should always follow their lead and stop exercising immediately if the dog is showing any signs of overheating or respiratory distress.

8 Taking Your Dog Out in Public We get it. Half the reason you want a dog is so your friends can ooh and ahh over how cute he is. With so many bars, restaurants, and entire communities becoming newly “dog friendly,” there’s never been a better time to get a dog.

Before You Take Your Dog Out It’s fine to be excited about your dog, but remember that he should stay at home until all of his vaccinations are complete. Taking him out – even to a seemingly innocuous location – could make him very sick.

Un-vaccinated dogs, especially puppies, can be susceptible to many pathogens if they are exposed to public places too soon. Some of these diseases can persist in the environment for a very long time, even years, and may be life-threatening to a pet with a weakened immune system. For this reason, we recommend un-vaccinated dogs be restricted from public outdoor areas until their vaccination series is completed.

You’ll also want to wait to take your dog in public until he’s (mostly) potty trained. Even the most dog-centric businesses and municipalities don’t appreciate accidents all over the ground. Where Can You Take Your Dog? Plenty of places! You can take your dog to friends’ houses, to some beaches, and of course, to kennels and boarding facilities. Dog parks are perennial favorites and many city/state parks allow dogs on leashes, too. Lots of breweries and restaurants with patios are cool with canine companions, and some stores even allow you to bring a non-service animal inside. What a time to be alive! The Skinny on Traveling with Your Dog It’s totally possible to travel with your dog as long as you do a little preparation. Here’s how to handle a few common modes of transportation with your furry friend in tow. In the Car: If your dog will stand for being inside his crate, this is by far the safest way for him to travel in the car. If not, plenty of companies make dog harnesses (sort of like big vests) that attach to the backseat seatbelt so your dog won’t go flying in an accident. Above all else, just be sure that you can drive without distraction…no dogs on your lap! On a Train: Did you know that Amtrak allows dogs? You’ll have to declare your pooch ahead of time and bring him in a crate, but the new service has made a lot of dog owners very happy. As for city-specific subways, check local ordinances before assuming you can bring on your dog. For example, did you know that you can bring your dog on the NYC Subway system as long as he’s in a bag? On a Plane: Dogs can travel on planes in either the cargo hold or in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Check with your airline for specifics on crate size, breed restrictions, and the necessary reservations and paperwork you’ll need. If you’re planning a big trip, ask your vet about getting a Travel Certificate, also known as a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). On an Electric Scooter: Do not take your dog on an electric scooter, please.

Behaving Yourselves in Public As with anything “public,” it’s important for your dog (and for you!) to follow societal etiquette when you go out. Every pet is different…your dog might behave one way in a crowd of people, for example, and a totally different way at a dog park with other dogs. Here’s how not to be The Worst:

Always, always, always pick up your dog’s poop! Carry poop bags with you; if you run out, buy something at Starbucks and use the bag in a pinch. And for goodness’ sakes, don’t let your dog pee all over someone else’s yard.

Follow other people’s leads. Some parents are scared to let dogs near their children; respect that. Some people simply don’t like dogs, or at the very least, don’t like to be licked. Saying, “Oh, he’s friendly!” first does not give your dog permission to invade someone’s space.

Never show up with a dog unannounced and likewise, don’t take your dog somewhere you’re not sure he’s welcome. If you have questions about a restaurant’s patio or a store’s policy, call ahead. Always keep your dog on his leash (unless you’re in a leash-free zone like a dog park.) If your dog can’t handle being off-leash without getting aggressive or running away, don’t test him.

Keep your dog close to you when other unfamiliar dogs are around. You’ll want to be ready to pull them apart should aggression occur; other dog owners might not think your dog’s “kisses” are as gentle as you do, either! In short, be vigilant and be respectful.

Don’t let your dog be a nuisance to other people, especially at places of business. If he begs, whines, or barks while you’re out, remove him from the situation.

Don’t ever leave your dog inside a car, even if the windows are cracked! The heat inside is absolutely awful for your dog, and good Samaritans may just break your window to “save” him. You could also get a ticket in some jurisdictions.

Above all else, listen to your dog. If he’s telling you he’s uncomfortable or agitated by acting unusually, excessively drooling, or being skittish when he’s usually brave, don’t wait around to find out what happens. Being a responsible dog owner means leading your dog, even when it’s inconvenient.

So, you’ve read all the warning labels and heeded everyone’s advice and you still think you’re ready for a dog?

Congratulations!

That kind of unshakeable commitment to pup parenthood is exactly what you need to succeed. Vetted PetCare wishes you best of luck as the newest addition to your family comes home. Remember, it’s all about flexibility, compassion, and tummy scratches. Boy, do they love tummy scratches.