Since my last O’pawnion piece almost a month ago it has become hotter in the UAE. I hope humans and doggos are keeping well, hydrated and adjusting your walkie time. My humans have started obsessing again about the heat and how to keep me cool. I don’t judge them, just that they are a bit too obsessed about anything related to me. if you think about it, that’s not so bad because after all we are dependent on humans – right? On that note, I’ll dive into today’s piece and share 5 things to do before bringing a dog home. My human says there are many nice humans who are keen to adopt doggos. And my tips are for these first-time adopters to manage their life with dogs in a happy and healthy manner.

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Start by creating a routine and stick to it

Even before thinking about fostering/adopting/welcoming a dog home, create a routine for yourself. This routine must include at least two moderately long walks (start with 20 minutes) every morning and evening. Because this is what you’ll have to do without fail every single day of your dog’s life. Take a deep look at your weekends to see if a dog fits into your plan. If not, can you adjust? We don’t want to judge but if you’re planning to leave your dog alone at home for extended hours, that’s not a good plan especially in the beginning. The dog will need time to adjust in a new setup. In fact, those working from office with no help at home may even need to consider taking some days off to help your dog adjust.

Know that every dog is different

Every dog is different. Some dogs are calm, some are tornados, some might be anxious. So, depending on their nature you may have to work a wee bit extra to help them settle in. It may not always be easy because some dogs might need training. Some might need socialising. While some might need a calm home but with a human or another dog around. Be prepared to be patient. Don’t give up on the dog! Talk to trustworthy people who can help you with knowledge, experience and will be empathetic. We also recommend that you do a bit of research to understand what kind of dog – temperament and breed – will be good for you.

Evaluate your life stage

Its very important to evaluate your life stage before welcoming a dog home. If you are someone who has to travel a lot, a pet is perhaps not a good idea. Will you have to relocate anytime soon? Then factor in how you will take the pet along. Relocation services are available here but they aren’t inexpensive so get an idea about this too. Do you live in a building that’s not pet-friendly, and you can’t move out either? Again, having a pet is not a good idea. Even things like being allergic to dog hair must be considered.

Plan the costs

Please plan the finances well. Having a pet in the UAE isn’t inexpensive. Of course, a lot depends on how you plan to keep your pet. And there is never a right or a wrong way of keeping a pet unless you’re being nasty to them. From food, bowls, bed, treats, toys to probable socialising at day care and boarding when you go on a holiday everything must be planned well. Add to that annual vaccination which is mandatory in the UAE plus vet visits as required. Some dogs, like me, might need to take medicines and supplements and that should be planned for as well. So, planning the finances is absolutely recommended before you bring a pet home.

Consider fostering

Finally, we want to strongly recommend that you first try to foster a dog before adopting. There are so many dogs at the shelters who need and deserve a second chance. Consider giving them a second chance. It will help you to get used to the idea of having a dog. Plus, you will understand if you are at all cut out for adopting a dog, which is a huge responsibility. Don’t get us wrong, we don’t want to discourage you, but we want you to be sure that you really truly want and can care for a dog. and by the way, we love ‘foster fail’ stories.

Our Paw-in-Chief Mr. Popo contributes O’pawnion pieces for PawzNRead website.