Are You Ready For a Dog/Husky/Malamute?
Much time, thought and research should go into your decision – after all, your dog will be living with you for the next 10-20 years.
Please think carefully about the following:
Food Costs: Feeding dogs, especially large breeds, can really add up. Have you considered your budget? Good quality food costs more, but is well worth it.
Prey Drive: Some Huskies are runners, high energy and high prey drive. What is prey drive? Prey drive is the natural instinct of carnivores to find, pursue, and capture prey. In dogs, it's their innate desire to chase and catch prey. Something to consider if you have small dogs, cats or children in the home.
Training: You’ll need to teach your puppy or new dog how to behave within the rules of your household. Are you prepared for this?
Medical Emergencies: From an ear infection to a traumatic injury, all vet visits cost money. Have you researched prices? Are you prepared to have a cash reserve on hand for emergencies?
Regular Vet Visits: All dogs require yearly vaccines and health exams. Certain breeds are also predisposed to certain medical problems.
Daily Exercise: Are you willing to provide adequate exercise? Some breeds require more exercise than others and may act out if they aren’t getting enough.
Breed: Size and energy level are determining factors in choosing the right dog for you.
Proper Shelter: Where will your pet live; indoors or outdoors? Outdoor dogs require an insulated, raised shelter suitable for his or her size with year-round access to food and water. All dogs fare better in fenced areas or dog runs. Remember, dogs do not belong on chains – this leaves them prone to attacks by other dogs and increases the likelihood of aggressive behaviour.
Size: Small dogs are generally more active than their giant counterparts and are also more apt to nip due to their small size and vulnerability to injury. Once “fine tuned,” large dogs are generally more recommended for families with children.
Grooming: Some dogs require daily brushing; others only once a week. Some require regular clipping. How much time and money (if you opt for a groomer) can you devote to ensuring your new dog is clean and free of mats?
Work Hours: A new puppy will not be able to hold their bladder or bowels for 10 hours. Do you have someone who can let them out while you’re at work, until they gain bladder control?
Lifestyle: Dogs are social animals that need daily human contact. Have you done the research to match up your lifestyle with the dog you want? Your decision cannot be made based on appearances alone. Certain dogs have certain needs. Can you meet them?
Age: Have you considered the many advantages of sharing your life with an older dog?
Family Considerations: It’s important to consider your family before adopting a dog. Do you have young children? While a toddler and a puppy make for great photo opportunities, it will be important to teach your child the proper way to handle and care for a pet. There are numerous books available to teach your children how to safely interact with dogs. The book "Tails are not for Pulling" is an excellent resource for toddlers. As a general rule, if your child is under six years old, it’s best to adopt a dog that is over two years old.
The 3-3-3 Rule
The First 3 Days: Decompression
Overwhelm: Your dog is likely overwhelmed, scared, and unsure.
Behavior: They may hide under furniture, refuse to eat/drink, or test boundaries.
Action: Keep things calm, quiet, and low-key. Give them space to feel safe.
The First 3 Weeks: Settling In
Routine: They are learning your daily routine (feeding, walks).
Behavior: Their true personality starts emerging. They may start testing boundaries, showing behavioral issues, or becoming more comfortable.
Action: Establish consistent routines and begin training with positive reinforcement.
The First 3 Months: Building Trust
Security: Your dog feels at home and safe, realizing this is their permanent place.
Bonding: They have developed a deeper bond with you and understand your expectations.
Action: Continue with training and socialization; they are fully part of the family now.
Note: Every dog is unique; some may take longer than 3 months to fully adjust, particularly if they have a history of trauma.
Why is it so important to spay and neuter your pet?
Spay or neutering is the best way to cut down on the number of unwanted animals in the community. These routine medical procedures not only help control pet overpopulation, but they may also prevent medical and behavioral problems from developing, allowing your pet to lead a longer, healthier and happier life.
Why is it important to have my pet vaccinated?
Vaccination protects your pet from highly contagious and/or deadly diseases and improves your pet's overall quality of life. Experts agree that widespread use of vaccines within the last century has prevented death and disease in millions of animals.
Vaccination prevents many pet illnesses.
Vaccination can help avoid costly treatments for preventable diseases.
Vaccination helps protect other animals and—in some cases—people, safeguarding your family and the broader community.
Vaccination guards against life-threatening diseases found in wildlife, like rabies and distemper.
Reputable boarding, daycare, grooming, and training services require up-to-date vaccinations to keep all pets safe.
Remember your Veterinarian is your best resource.