Top ten shopping guide for new dog parents
Friday, August 26, 2016 09:38:33 PM America/Los_Angeles
This Friday, August 26th is National Dog Day. Founded in 2004 by Colleen Paige, this special day encourages people to adopt dogs and bring attention to the plight of animals.
"Millions of dogs are killed each year because they're simply unwanted, says Colleen Paige, founder of National Dog Day. They're unwanted because no one realized how to properly care for the demands of the breed. They're unwanted because they were bought as a Christmas gift for a child that didn't keep their promises about caring for the dog...unwanted because they shed too much...unwanted because they bark too much. UNWANTED...simply because someone changed their mind. All a dog wants to do is love you and be loved by you. Dogs are amazing, courageous, sensitive and sentient beings that deserve compassion and respect. Please consider bringing what was once considered "unwanted love", into your heart and home on National Dog Day!"
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With the excitement of adopting a new dog, don't forget to prepare your home for your new family member. There are several items that will help make the transition easier for you and your dog. Here is our list of the top ten items you'll want to consider:
Baby Gate - Give your dog freedom but restrict some areas of your house. New dogs should be given boundaries and be placed in a restricted area when you are unable to supervise them. This is to avoid them getting into places they shouldn't.
Crate - A crate will be useful for housetraining. Here are some great tips from the Humane Society. 
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Collar & Leash - Be sure to get a leash about 4 to 6 ft long and a collar that fits snugly. If you can slip it over their heads it's too loose.
Bed - Cozy blankets will be fine in the beginning and let you see what kind of personality and preferences your dog has. Then once they're settled you can shop together for the perfect bed.
Grooming - Dog's need to be groomed just like us so don't forget to get the essential tools to make them feel like a million bucks: brush, shampoo, nail clippers, toothbrush and toothpaste.
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Food and Water Bowls - Make sure to find out what your dog has been eating so that you can transition them slowly to a different type of food if necessary.
Identification - You can purchase tags at a pet store. Consider getting a microchip for your dog. They are relatively inexpensive and can be done fairly easily by your vet.
Toys - Make sure to get enough varieties (a ball, a squeaking toy, chew toy are good to start with) to keep your dog entertained. Top Dog Tips has a good list for the top new toys for 2016 as does The Dog Digest.
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DoggieLawn - Don't forget to have a DoggieLawn on hand so your dog has a place to go in case you're not home. Your dog will appreciate the thoughtfulness, you'll appreciate not having to clean up an accident on your brand new carpet.
Poo Baggies - You'll need these to pickup after your dog. There's nothing more awkward than realizing your out of them while your neighbor stares you down, waiting for you to pick up the poo. We like these eco-friendly options from Poop Bags that have a smaller carbon footprint on Mother Earth than other options.
