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The
change from the familiar comfort of its dam and siblings
to the novel surroundings of a new home is bewildering
and potentially frightening for a puppy, and every effort
must be made to calm its fears and provide an orderly
introduction to its new way of life. Such questions
as where the puppys bed is to go, where its food and
water bowls will be sited, and which parts of the house
it is allowed access to, should have been decided in
advance. The bed and bowls should already be in place,
so that from the start the puppy can see that its essential
needs have been provided for. |
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Children
and Puppies
It is difficult to restrain young children
from gathering around to admire and pet the new puppy,
but for the first four or five days they should keep their
distance (minimum three - depending on personality of
puppy). Avoid sudden loud noises and movements. When the
puppy feels sufficiently at ease in its new surroundings
it will come forward of its own accord and indicate that
it is ready to make friends. Young children (under nine)
should not be left unsupervised with a puppy.
The puppys name should be used frequently from
the beginning. After the settling-in period, the puppy
will be ready to start playing, but games must be gentle
and should not go on for more than ten minutes at a time.
Puppies tend to get overexcited as any small child - also
they tire easily, and may overheat themselves. |
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Puppies
and other Pets
If there are any other pets in the house,
these must be introduced to the new arrival with care.
Cats tend to treat new puppies with caution, and may keep
well out of their way for a few days. Care should be taken
that, in the excitement of a new arrival, older pets continue
to receive as much attention as they are used to along
with some special treats or excursions. Dogs may some
aggression, and may even discipline the puppy for you,
just make sure there is no harm done to the pup, normal
discipline from an older dog to a younger, will usually
be nipping, knocking over or away from something, or short
barks. |
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**
Necessary Temporary Isolation **
Until the first of vaccinations has been
completed, usually at about ten to fourteen weeks of age,
your puppy must not be allowed into areas where other,
unvaccinated, dogs and or other animals, may have walked.
This means that the puppy must be confined to your own
yard or garden, and must be carried if it ventures outside
(for example, to visit the veterinary clinic). |
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With
thanks to Care for Your Puppy
The Official RSPCS Pet Guide,
Harper/Collins Publishers, 1985 |
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