There is a real problem here in Spain with the number of dogs and puppies available. There are of course the dog breeders who should be fully registered if they are to sell pedigree puppies, but there are also thousands of puppies being born each year because of the lack of neutering of dogs.
Many of these dogs and puppies end up in animal refuges, some of which are simply holding pens where the animals are kept after being taken off the streets. Many of these dogs belong to people, but if they are not re-united with their owners, or re-homed they will end up being put to sleep. If you are thinking of getting a dog or puppy, maybe your local rescue centre is the first place to look.
The first thing to consider if you are considering getting a puppy is to see if you have enough time and money, as well as room for your new pet. If the answer to these three questions is yes, you will have to think about which kind of dog is the best for your needs.
Bear in mind the following:
1 The size of the puppy when it is an adult. Obviously, it is not the same to feed, transport or go for a walk with a Pekinese as a Saint Bernard. The size of the dog will also affect the costs of feeding (a giant dog may eat more than one kilo of food in a day). If the animal is going to live outside, it is better to choose a medium or small sized breed and avoid choosing tiny dogs as Pomeranian, Pinscher or Yorkshire which are not adapted to all weather.
2 The sex of the dog may be a deciding factor. Males may be harder to train. Females, although usually calmer, are in heat twice a year and it is important to get them sterilized, which is usually more expensive than having a male dog castrated.
3 The coat of the dog or puppy. The more fur the dog has, the more care is needed with daily combing, regularly washing and probably professional sessions at the dog groomer. Dogs also moult, especially coming up to the warmer weather and this excess hair can be a problem in the house, especially if any of the family has health issues such as hay fever or rhinitis.
4 Different breeds behave differently. Be aware of certain features such as barking and problems such as hip displasia. Certain breeds and their crosses are linked to special legal rules as they may be considered potentially dangerous animals and their owners have to get a specific license to own them. Never choose a dog just for its physical appearance, but get to know something about the behaviour and features of the dog in which you are interested. Ask vets and professional people for advice.
5 Neighbours. If you live in a flat or on an urbanization, be aware that there are breeds of dogs that may be very noisy. It is important to get informed about the rules in the community.
6 Pet’s parents. If you can, see the parents of any puppies you are interested in. This will give you an idea of the dog’s future physical and mental features.
Clinica Veterinaria
Puerto de Mazarrón.
Tel 968 153 931
Camposol Sector A
Tel 968 199 263