Pandemic Puppies
Getting a new pet at any time is a big decision, and with the current lockdown restriction, there are even more things to consider.
Where to get your new pet?
It is important to go to a reputable breeder, and to ‘meet, either in person or virtually, the mother to the pups, and see the puppies interacting with their litter mates, and mum in their natural environment.
Ensure you have a record of any vaccines and flea and wormer given to your puppy prior to purchase.
Your puppy should be microchipped before purchase – it is illegal for any breeder to sell a puppy that is not microchipped, and registered on a UK database. Make sure you get a record of the microchip and to which company it is registered to, so any details can be updated accordingly.
Rescue centres area also a great place to find a new pet. Here, dogs and cats are likely to be fully vaccinated (or at least have had their first vaccination) and be neutered, Behavioural assessments are often carried out prior to rehoming, so you are able to be matched with a dog that will be compatible with your lifestyle and any pets already in the home environment.
Lucy’s Law came into place in April 2020, meaning that anyone wanting to get a new puppy or kitten in England, must now buy direct from a breeder, or adopt from a rescue centre instead. If a business sells puppies or kittens without a license, they could receive an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to 6 months.
Please do your research into breeds prior to getting a new dog. Consider the size, activity level, lifestyle and price of the dog you are wanting to purchase. Some breeds are not suitable for first time dog owners.
Puppy prices have soared during the pandemic, so please make sure you either put money aside for unexpected vet bills, or get your puppy insured so you can provide them with optimal health care to support their needs.
There is more information about choosing a puppy and how to spot scams and puppy farms in our Puppy Portal section.
The home environment
It is essential that your home is safe for your new addition.
The garden must be free from toxic plants, gates must be secure, and water sources fenced off. Indoors, wires should be covered and medications must be stored out of reach. Ensure your puppy has a safe sleeping environment where it feels comfortable – a crate or a room, and that they have a set bedtime routine to aid them feeling secure at night.
Again, we have a detailed section in our Puppy Portal section that covers socialisation in much more detail.
Socialisation and training
There are lots of tips to help your dog get used to different sounds and experiences during the pandemic.
Traffic noises – before your puppy is able to go out on walks (typically 1 week after its 2nd vaccination) you can carry them in your arms or in a baby sling.
Prams and bikes – again prior to full vaccination, you can sit in the park with your puppy in your arms, and watch the world go by.
Walking in areas where your puppy will see other dogs, in a socially distanced manner, will aid them acting in an appropriate manner in communal areas.
Examination techniques – imitate the techniques performed when we examine your pets. Look in their ears by lifting their ear flaps, play with their feet to simulate a nail clip or placing an intravenous catheter.
Tooth brushing is an important part of a puppy’s daily routine and is a great bonding exercise for you and your puppy.
Crate training or leaving your puppy alone for regular intervals helps your puppy get used to a daily routine like what would be experienced on a normal working day. Make the crate a fun area for your pup by providing Kong toys or snuffle mats to keep them entertained and occupied.
Sit in the car with your puppy even if you aren’t going on a journey! Providing a treat or toy while your puppy is calmly sat in the car can help them feel at ease. Repeating this on a daily basis makes them aware that this again is normal, and will help them when going on car journeys.
Desensitisation music such as Sounds Scary by the Dogs Trust, or Calm Pet on YouTube have daily sounds and more fearful but commonly heard noises, and these can help them get used to loud noises from a young age.
Changes of circumstances?
If and when coronavirus restrictions are lifted, and those of you working from home return to the office, will you still have enough times to take your dog for regular, daily exercise and will they be able to cope with being left at home for long periods of time? Will you be able to find a daily dog walker? Do you have suitable provisions for when you go on holiday?
If you have any questions regarding purchasing a puppy, please call us to discuss any queries. We look forward to meeting your new puppy!
