First and foremost CONGRATULATIONS! A dog is a wonderful addition to any home! We at Castle Vets practice what we preach as we all have our own family pets!
It’s a big decision getting a new puppy or rescuing a dog from an animal shelter. It’s important to do all your research first to make sure the dog is the right fit for you, your home and your lifestyle. Please call us at Castle Vets if you need any advice on choosing your family pet.
Get a New Puppy
There are several ways to get a new puppy but you should consider adopting a dog rather than buying one. There are plenty of shelters around Dublin and further afield with both dogs and puppies looking for loving homes. If you intend on buying rather than rehoming a puppy it is very important to get your puppy from a reputable source. Irish Pet Advertising Advisory Group (www.ipaag.ie) is a very useful website to guide you through the possible pitfalls of buying a puppy online.
On collection of your new pet you should ALWAYS visit the premises to ensure it is a reputable breeder. It is also wise to ask to see your new puppy’s mother along with his/her littermates to ensure they have been well taken care of. You should request all of the following documents on collection of your new puppy.
- Vaccination certificate
- Medical treatment including flea and worm treatments
- Microchip certificate – This is a legal requirement when a puppy transfers ownership
- Pet passport if born outside of Ireland
- Instructions on feeding and scheduling veterinary treatments.
- A contract of sale.
It is important to spend time with your new puppy from the beginning, allowing him/her to get used to their new surroundings. Once settled in, contact your vet to schedule a check up and any treatment that is required.
Once again please don’t hesitate to contact us at any stage in your decision making process! And of course get in touch on 01-4640499 or click here to make your pet’s first appointment for a full health check by one of our vets – we’ll be delighted to welcome them to our practice!
