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How about a new puppy this spring?

By Dr. Don Palermo, McClatchy Newspapers, Source: MCT News Service

I was reviewing a few of my old articles and decided this one bears repeating. So let's talk about a new spring and a new pet today.

There will be many changes in your household with a new puppy so here area few proven thoughts that will make our new pooch a welcomed addition.

The first and foremost recommendation I have is to love your new puppy, give it a complete physical by your local veterinarian within the first two days of ownership. I can't tell you the number of times that I have found a physical defect in a new puppy exam only to hear that've had him for two or three weeks and am too attached to give him up despite any abnormal findings.

Now I realize that you may become attached to your new puppy on the first day, but sometimes it is better to listen with your head rather than your heart if you have only acquired your new puppy in the last few days.

Remember even though your breeder may have vaccinated your newly acquired pup, that vaccination needs to be repeated every two to three weeks for a total of at least four vaccinations before long-lasting immunity can be achieved. Don't forget to ask for a microchip implant so your puppy can be found and identified if he strays away from home and becomes lost.

You need to know that your puppy will put anything and everything in his mouth. That means you can make life so much better for the puppy if you keep your shoes, clothes and other chewables out of the puppy's reach. Bitter apple spray can be applied to furniture and other household items to prevent chewing.

You may want to keep your puppy in just a few rooms in the house initially. Please keep him away from any electrical outlets or cords.

Housetraining is a must. There are many excellent books in housetraining your dog and maybe your veterinarian will have a few handy suggestions. Try to totally housebrake your puppy in as little time as possible. Remember that the longer it takes to housetrain your pup as a rule the less you will enjoy him.

I've always advocated keeping your puppy in a crate when you are not at home. Remember that a dog crate isn't necessarily going to be a permanent fixture in your house, but it sure will be handy until the housetraining and chewing are under control.

Finally, you need to have a good attitude with your new puppy. You will need an extra dose of patience and a good sense of humor. Your new pet won't be a puppy forever, and all your preparation and planning will pay off in the future for one of the greatest friends you'll ever have.

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Dr. Don Palermo, a veterinarian at Bienville Animal Medical Center in Ocean Springs, Miss., encourages questions for this column. Write to South Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, 20005 Pineville Road, Long Beach, Miss. 39560 and include a self-addressed stamped envelope.)

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