Puppies are just the best, aren’t they? Who doesn’t love a cute, happy, little puppy face?! Although they are undeniably adorable, they can be a real handful. There are many things one should consider before rushing to adopt a puppy. You want to make sure you are prepared to take on another full-time job. Here are a few things you should think about if you’re going to adopt a puppy!
What kind of dog you get is one, if not the most, important thing for you to think about before adopting. In fact, it is crucial that you do your research on different breeds to help you determine what will best fit into your life. For example, a 10-pound Chihuahua would be fine living in a small apartment. However, a 180-pound English Mastiff would need much more space. You also want to look at the breed’s coat-type, because some dog’s coats will require regular maintenance. Dogs with tight-curly coats must be brushed out regularly, or they can end up with some painful matting that will eventually have to be shaved off. On the other hand, short/straight-haired dogs require little to no grooming maintenance, aside from the usual bathing and nail trimming.
The next thing you should definitely consider is your lifestyle. Do you have a demanding job that calls for you to work long hours? Because to train a new puppy, you are going to need lots of time and patience. You also will have to make time to keep up with their vet appointments for annual vaccines and check-ups. Not to mention, most puppies can’t just be left home alone with no supervision. If you choose not to crate train, you will need someone there to watch them or find a doggie daycare/hotel that can watch them for you while you’re gone. It will make things much easier for you if you set these things up before you bring home your new pup!
Lastly, you will just want to make sure your home is ready to welcome a puppy. Puppies are curious, and they will more than likely be ready to get into stuff. You will want to puppy-proof your home to ensure his or her safety. This means keeping the trash put away, covering electrical cords, getting rid of any poisonous plants, etc. Also, if you have children or other pets, you will want to make sure they are ready to welcome a new pet into the home. It’s never a bad idea to educate yourself on the proper ways to introduce a new pup to your family, that way you can have peace of mind when leaving them alone together. Other than that, you will just need the basic dog supplies such as water/food bowls, toys, bedding, etc. Now you’re on your way to bringing home your new furry friend!
By no means is this written to deter you from adopting a puppy, puppies are great and they truly become part of your family. It is more so to simply educate on the fact the puppies aren’t just all fun and games. There is a lot of responsibility and work that comes with bringing home a new fur baby. As long as you are prepared, things will be great. To bring things to an end, we’d like to feature a few of the new puppies we’ve recently met here at Good Dog!
Approximately 6.5 million animals enter U.S shelters each year. More times than not, these animals aren’t young and lively anymore. Many of them are senior pets, who probably once had homes and families, and could have ended up homeless for various reasons. When we think about bringing home a new pet, we often think of a tiny, fuzzy kitten or a fluffy, energetic puppy. But, why don’t we ever think of bringing home an older pet? Sure, they may be going a little gray and they may not have all the energy in the world, but a lot of us can probably say the same. They still have so much love to give, and just like the rest of us, they simply just want to be loved. November is adopt a senior pet month! Here at Good Dog, we have many senior dogs who come in to visit us. We wanted to highlight a few reasons why adopting a senior dog can be a rewarding, great experience. Not to mention, we also wanted to give a few of our very own senior residents some shine.
1. Old dogs can still learn new tricks! It’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks. In fact, a lot of times older dogs can be easier to train than puppies, due to their ability to focus for a longer period of time. Consistency is really the only thing that matters when teaching anyone something new! (Consistently giving treats that is.)
-Molly, the 14 year old Blue Heeler! She still loves to play fetch and she also enjoys bath time.
2. Senior dogs often already have basic training. Most senior dogs have already been potty trained, and many of them know basic commands like sit, stay, shake, etc. Teaching a new puppy these things can take a lot of time and energy that many people just don’t have.
-Buddy, the 14 year old chow-lab mix! He is one of our regulars in daycare! He still comes at least once a week.
3. Older dogs are more calm, and less energetic. Once dogs come out of their puppy stage, they tend to calm down quite a bit. This means fewer chewed up shoes, and less destroyed furniture. This also means they will be less needy in terms of wanting to play, or go on walks 24/7. If you have children, older dogs tend to be more calm which typically results in them doing better with kids as well!
-Bug and Sophie, the 14 year old pug sisters! They love to cuddle up together for naps.
4. Senior dogs already have set personalities and temperaments. Senior dogs are already who they are going to be. You won’t have to worry about any surprises. They already have their set personalities, whether that be shy, calm, outgoing, or friendly. What you see is what you get. With that being said, this will make it easier to assess how he/she may fit into your lifestyle.
-Bully, the almost 12 year old French Bulldog! He still comes to daycare all the time! (Even if his time here is mostly spent sleeping.)
5. Adopting an older dog is saving a life. Many times dogs over the age of five are overlooked. The odds for them aren’t always great. Some of these dogs will live in a shelter for the rest of their days. It’s important to remember that older dogs need a home just as badly as the young ones. It is a heroic thing to find beauty and love in what others wouldn’t even think twice about.
-Tipper, the almost 10 year old chihuahua-beagle mix! She is the best to snuggle with!
These are just a few of the many reasons why adopting an older dog can be the right choice for a lot of us. Everyone deserves a home and a family, no matter how young, old, big, or small. With all the cute puppies around, I think it can be easy for us to forget about the older dogs. That is why we wanted to bring awareness to adopt a senior pet month! Next time you are looking to bring home a new pet, consider taking home a senior pet. Take it from Tiki, who is a senior himself, that the old guys are just the best!
– Our very own Tiki, the 11 year old pug-poodle mix! Tiki loves his human and doggie friends and he likes to play with his toys.
Each and every dog has their own unique story. Here at Good Dog, we see hundreds of different dogs, from towering Great Danes to tiny chihuahuas. They all come from different backgrounds and homes, and their owners always have fun stories to tell. Unfortunately, not all dogs have a great start, but there is so much beauty in what we as people can do to better a dogs life. As many of you know, we have a furry little pug-poodle mix named Tiki, who has been our mascot for Good Dog for eight years! We always get so many questions about him, and we figured it would only be right to outline his inspiring journey for you all. Tiki’s story; who he is, his accident, and his recovery.
People are always so intrigued by Tiki, as he is a scruffy little old man, with a huge underbite, who just hangs out on our desk in the front lobby. He is always there to greet everyone as soon as they come in, and he is not the least bit shy. He is very much known for running around demanding attention. Many would say he lives the perfect doggie life, because all day long he gets numerous treats and all kinds of affection. If you know Tiki, you know that he is extremely vocal and makes the strangest noises when he gets excited. One thing for sure is that Good Dog would not be the same without our beloved Tiki. He is hilarious and truly one of a kind. In the eight years that he has been with us, he has changed so many of our lives for the better. I think I can speak for all of us when I say, Tiki makes coming to work so much more enjoyable. I mean, who wouldn’t want a cute little dog by their side all day while they work? Now, how did we get tiki you may be asking? It all started back in September of 2011. Michelle, who is one of the managers for Good Dog, was off for the day and she had an appointment scheduled at a beauty salon to have her hair styled. As she was waiting in the front lobby, one of the stylists rushed in exclaiming to her co-workers, “I am so sorry i’m late! I just saw a dog get hit by a car!”
After hearing this, Michelle, who has worked with dogs for years, and has many of her own, of course started to tune in at this point. The stylist goes on to say that she couldn’t keep him due to having two boxers at home, so she just took him to a nearby vet to see what they could do. Michelle at this point explains to her that she works for Good Dog, and she would love to help out, as we have had many rescues. So, she gives the stylist her number and waits to hear back. Not too long after, she ends up reaching out to Michelle. She tells her that Tiki had a broken hip and he was going to have to stay at the vet for quite some time. If you are a pet owner, you know how expensive things can get when you make trips to the vet. Although the stylist had no money to pay for him to essentially live at the vet for a while to recover, that’s when a miracle happened. A woman was standing at the front when Tiki was dropped off, and she had selflessly offered to pay. For it all! Thanks to her, Tiki was given a second chance, and was able to live there for a month. They called him ‘Neil’, before he was ever our Tiki. Before we knew it, it was time for him to come to what would become his forever home. He arrived for the first time at Good Dog, on October 10th, 2011.
To be continued….
Looking for a best friend? We have the perfect pup just for you!
When we updated our website, we lost our previous blog on Buddy. However, we think he’s ‘oh-so-perfect’ and decided to write another. If you don’t already know about Buddy, you’ll soon find out why we love him so much. Buddy has been through a lot but since the first day we met him he has been the sweetest, most loving, perfect boy. He came to a long-time client of ours as a stray & in need of immediate medical assistance. He had a skin infection and really bad teeth. After a few rounds of antibiotics we saw a huge change in his fur/skin. His coat went from brown to a deep, bright red and his demeanor is sweeter than ever (if that’s even possible.) As of recently, a miracle happened. Buddy had a donor step forward to pay for the removal of a few teeth. Everyone who meets Buddy falls in love immediately, we know we can find him a forever home.
Tilly is a 10-month-old boxer mix who is now spayed, up-to-date on shots and looking for her forever home. She was initially adopted quickly, but the sale of her adopters’ new home unfortunately fell through. She has been with us for quite some time, waiting for her rescuer, so we compiled a list of our favorite things about her … Here are our Top 10:
-Every dog in daycare loves her – she is one of the most social and playful pups!
-Her demeanor toward humans is shy, but loving and sweet.
-She has the biggest, most beautiful puppy-dog eyes.
-Loves companionship and is definitely ready to give her whole heart to her owner.
-Has the most beautiful brindle coat, to match those pretty eyes!
-While timid with people at first, once she gets to know you, she’s very loyal and loving.
-Her playful, energetic personality will make her the BEST sibling to any dog!
-She’s very sweet, smart and curious.
-Loves to lay her head in your hand, which makes your heart melt!
-Favorite activity is sunbathing, especially with another canine or human friend.
Hank’s previous owners were devastated to part with him, through no fault of his own, and he is long overdue for a new forever family. Hank is a 9-month-old hound mix who is neutered and up-to-date on shots. Our staff adores him, so we compiled a list of our Top 10 reasons to love him:
-Hanky is so smart – he already knows sit, lay down and is ready to learn more.
-Loves to run … we can see him making a runner VERY happy.
-He’ll do anything for a treat, so he’d make a great trick dog!
-Great to take on walks, but would rather lay in the sun with you.
-Loves to eat blackberries.
-Hank not only adores cuddling, he is great at it!
-Is fantastic in daycare and gets along great with dogs and humans.
-Loooooves taking baths…Imagine that!
-Adorably playful and energetic — he’s the quintessential playful pup!
-Loves kids, especially older ones (still has some “puppy energy” that could be too much for toddlers).
-Bonus #11, because Hank is too cute to limit our list to 10: He has the most beautiful puppy-dog eyes that can make anyone smile, even on your worst day. Plus we’re pretty sure he’s going to have them forever.
A year after adopting our stray Buddy, his parents sent us an update on his new life.
Rudy’s First Year
When we first met Rudy (his name was Buddy at the time), it was love at first sight. He’s so incredibly sweet and immediately took to us. During his first drive home, he laid nervously on the backseat, a little anxious of the whole “moving tin can” thing and certainly scared of the open windows. He was also terrified of our staircase at first, but treat by treat, he found the way to his bed upstairs. He’s a quick learner; he nailed sit, stay, and lay down immediately. Now, he gives the best “high fives” and can finally “speak,” with bonus command “louder” … It took about four months to hear his first bark!
This spring, we bought Rudy a pass to the dog park, and his personality really shines amongst the other dogs. He loves playing chase and is happiest when sprinting directly toward us from the farthest corner of the park, usually covered in mud. He continues to work on “fetch” and usually prefers a game of keep-away first. At home, he is a lover. He loves cuddling on the couch but has been known to suddenly attack his stuffed gator from afar. Every bone or large treat he receives is painstakingly hidden before it’s enjoyed. His favorite spots are inside the couch, under his bed, and corners. We’ve even found him under our pillows a time or two!
We anxiously waited for the right time to get a dog, so when the stars aligned to adopt Rudy, we felt like we won the lottery! He is playful and affectionate, loves to make us laugh, and always greets us at the door. Rudy has brought a lot of love into our home, and he helps us to be more active. It has been a great experience watching Rudy grow and learn. You are most likely to see his smiling face at the dog park, getting pets from strangers on the Monon, or hanging out of the car window with his tongue out, on the way to visit friends.
Thank you, Good Dog Hotel, for playing matchmaker! We couldn’t be happier.
Mandi, Brendan & Rudy
Dear Murphy,
We found you alone in an empty yard, after a huge rainstorm that probably separated you from your family. You were so tiny and scared, much too young to be away from your momma, so my Good Dog family hoped for her return. When that didn’t happen, we knew what to do. It was clear you needed help and attention, and a family to love you, so we brought you here. I’m writing this letter to let you know that everything is going to be OK.
I remember being lost. I saw that familiar panic in your eyes when we first met. Maybe that’s why I felt the need to care for you, or why we became friends so quickly. My heart wanted to communicate that your world will soon change for the better.
When you first came to us, you were shaking with fear. Your tiny body couldn’t support your oversized kitten head, so your face would end up in your water or food bowl. We fixed that. We taught you how to eat and drink, and Pinky the Dog assumed the role of momma cat. I let you sleep in my bed on the lobby desk, for which you should be forever grateful. I do not share that bed willingly.
The Good Dog people, who are my whole life, petted and loved you whenever they’d visit — especially the little humans. I made a concerted effort to quash my jealousy of your human attention. Eventually you became more and more confident, even a bit of a tough guy. I was amazed when you pretty much potty-trained yourself, and you grew into an expert playmate for dogs and cats. I couldn’t ask for a nicer kitty friend.
Now it’s time for you to find a forever home. This is the best part of your upcoming adventure, because you’ll gain new siblings and a family that loves and cares for you all day, every day. You’ll have your very own home for sleeping, romping and playing, and an extended family to spoil you rotten. To go from being a lost and lonely orphan to the newest member of a loving family, that is life’s greatest gift. I wish you all these things and more, as long as you promise to come back and visit me — just every once in awhile, if you’re not too busy. And bring treats if you can. The good ones that taste like bacon. If it’s not too much trouble.
Love,
Tiki
Dear friends, Murph is about 8-9 weeks old, male, and great with dogs, cats, kids and grown-ups. He will have his first round of shots and is already potty trained. Feel free to contact management at 317.255.2525 or gd-mgr@gooddoghotel.com if you’d like to meet him!
This is the 5th installment in our series on Good Dog staff dogs.
Name: Simba Tiberius Brown
A.K.A: Doodie (yes, he actually responds to this nickname) and Tiberius (Captain Kirk’s name, chosen by his Star-Trek-loving dad)
Genetics: Pomeranian
Mama: Veronique – one of our amazing groomers
Story:
Mom was regularly dog-sitting for Simba when his owners’ life situation changed and they couldn’t keep him. Already enamored with the little Pom, she quickly and happily adopted him. Simba fit right in with his kitty siblings … It was one of the best decisions mom and dad ever made!
Modus Operandi (M.O.):
Bounces around like a bunny in his backyard, out of sheer excitement to be in his outdoor kingdom. Patiently waits for mom to exit shower every morning so he can help “dry” her ankles by licking water droplets. Likes dogs, but truly loves his feline friends…If there were a kitty-doggie daycare in town, he’d be the number-one customer!
Celebrity Doppleganger:
Very much like his namesake from “The Lion King.” Our Simba is definitely ruler of his animal kingdom, which includes sister Nala and cats Zeppelin, Dorothy, and Little Bit.
Favorite thing about GD:
Loves to lap-lounge with the daycare staffers. He also lives for “groom time” with mommy. He loves feeling clean and prances around like a proud little lion when he’s finished.
Name: Nala Pi (π) Brown
A.K.A: Pumpkin Pi
Genetics: Dachshund-Pom mix (Doxi-Pom)
Story:
Mom was looking for a sibling for Simba when she heard a litter of Doxi-Poms was dropped at a shelter. The fam drove all the way to Connorsville to meet their 7-week-old, 2-pound puppy. The name Nala fit, and the rest is history!
Modus Operandi (M.O.):
Lives and breathes to fetch her fave toy, a red rubber ring she’s had since puppyhood. She can fetch it sleepwalking, if need be. She’ll even break away from dinner or the world’s best belly-rub to catch it! It’s a three-way tie for her second favorite activity: burrowing under a blanket in mom or dad’s lap, curling up next to the fireplace, and playing “tag” with her brother in the yard.
Celebrity Doppleganger:
The female lion Nala in “Lion King,” because she is queen of her kingdom, as well as sassy, smart, loving and witty.
Favorite thing about GD:
If you’ve ever looked through our daycare window, you’ve probably seen a tiny little dog sitting in a basket on the windowsill in our “littles” section. That sweetpea would be Nala, sunbathing in her favorite spot while mom grooms doggies all day.
This is the fourth installment in our series on GD staff dogs…
Name: Chewbacca Chewmeister III
A.K.A: Chewy, Chewball, Mr. Chew, Chew-Chew, Scruffalupagus
Genetics: Corgi mix with a side of fiesty
His story: He was found as a stray by someone who couldn’t keep him. When no one came forward to claim him, they shared him on Craigslist to find him a forever home. Kathleen (front desk & hotel) was hooked the moment she saw him in all his Corgi wonder.
Modus Operandi (M.O.): Jumps into empty bathtubs when bored. Capable of obliterating a large retriever roll in four hours, thus the name “Chewy.” At his happiest when destroying toys, growls when he experiences any type of emotion, and LOVES to play in the snow. He’s also a great listener and knows “go upstairs,” “get in the tub,” and “go get your Kong,” in addition to the basic commands.
Favorite thing about Good Dog: Bossing his brother, Wash, in front of a captive audience.
Celebrity Doppelganger: Peter O’ Toole — surly, strange, and swears a lot, but knows how to have a good time. And everywhere he goes, people want to meet him.
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Name: Washington P. Washington-Huggable, Esq.
A.K.A: Wash, Mr. Wash, Washypants, The Washbuckler (per his Good Dog family), Puffybutt, Sir Butt Fluffington
Genetics: Corgi mix with a side of cuteness
Story: Parents Kathleen & Devin wanted another Corgi-mix sibling for Chewy. Wash was available for adoption through The Ark rescue, so they met him at a PetSmart adoption event. Two weeks later he met Chewy and they hit it off immediately. It was destiny. Side note: When he first came home, he was scared of the world (had to be lifted into a car and carried upstairs, barked at anyone within 100 feet, and didn’t know how to play with toys). Two years later, makes friends easily and loves car rides and toys. Daycare at GD was a big part of bringing him out of his shell!
Modus Operandi (M.O.): Has a habit of hiding items that are of value to him (mom and dad once found a loaf of bread hidden between the pillows on their bed). He’s particularly gifted at cuddling like a toddler, with his head resting on your shoulder. Possesses world-class balancing skills … can go from “sit pretty” to “stand” to “sit pretty” again, without his legs ever touching the floor.
Favorite thing about Good Dog: Hanging out with his extended GD family. It can take awhile for him to warm up to newbies, but once he likes someone, he LOVES them! So it is with the GD staff.
Celebrity Doppleganger: Truman Capote – intellectual, introverted, soft-spoken and anxious to write the next great American novel. And pale.
