Pupdate: Luna x Magic - You've Picked You're Puppy! Now What?
Pupdate: Luna x Magic - What Now?
Congratulations, you have officially selected your puppy and you are probably wondering, what happens now?
Now is the time to begin preparing for your puppy’s arrival, because before you know it… those sweet puppy kisses will be alllllll yours!
Supplies and Other Details
Usually around this time those of you lucky few who are excitedly thinking about bringing home one of these amazing puppies start asking me about preparation and go-home supplies. In response to that, I started creating lists of items I LOVE and highly recommend. I try to break this down into a few categories to make things easier. This is also where I will start preparing you for some of the “go-home” do’s and don'ts.
So let’s start with the most basic of items: food, bowls, crate, leash, and training treats.
Paw-rents Questions
Do you have a question you think might benefit the everyone knowing the answer? Send it to me in an e-mail and I’ll answer it next time!
Q. What food should I feed my puppy?
Ollie
I have fed this food now for about a year to my puppies (in addition to their kibble food). I am always very pleased with the results and the pups LOVE it. They grow well and process the food very well. Better processed food = less poop because the body is making better use of the ingredients. And that is a win for everyone!
Nutro Lamb & Rice Large Breed Puppy
I have fed this food for about seven years now. I like it. It is a quality food that can be found in most retail pet stores (Petsmart, Petco) and/or placed on autoship through Chewey or Amazon .
Q. “What type of food and water bowl should I use? “
A. There are 100s and thousands of different bowl types, but let's take a look at what’s best.
Poodles (and other deep-chested breeds) are prone to a condition called Gastric Dilation and Volvulus (GVS), more commonly known as bloat. This can be deadly, so we want to mitigate that risk as much as possible.
Feed your poodle with its bowl on the ground. DO NOT use elevated food or water bowls.
Do not feed your poodle within 45 minutes of exercise (45 minutes before AND 45 minutes after)
Do not allow them to scarf down their food as they’ve never had a meal before in their life.
Feed TWO meals a day.
When you get your puppy altered (spayed/neutered) between the 18 - 24 month mark, ask your vet to also perform a gastropexy. It is an easy surgery that doesn’t typically add too much additional to the cost of the alternation, and it could potentially save your dog’s life.
You should be washing your dog’s bowl between meals, but maybe you forget… it happens.
Alright, alright, alright I know… the Stainless Steel bowls are kinda ugly, potentially noisy, and cheap-looking…. But they are actually the best. Here is why:
Stainless Steel Bowls are extremely difficult to break. Both ceramic and plastic bowls break. Ceramics can break and potentially cause cuts. Plastic bowls can be chewed up and become intestinal blockages.
Plastic bowls can cause allergic reactions in some dogs. They are frequently made with BPAs and phthalate, which is unsafe. Plastic bowls are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially in the scratches and nick the bowls accumulate over time.
Ceramic bowls are heavy and expensive. They shatter unexpectedly.
Stainless Steel bowls are dishwasher safe, long-lasting, and have the lowest bacteria count in studies.
Stainless Steel Bowls
So… all of that is to say, I recommend Stainless Steel bowls. I buy mine at the Dollar Tree, yes… that Dollar Tree. They are inexpensive and cost SIGNIFICANTLY less than buying from the Pet store. Obviously, if you buy online, they only sell in bulk, but if you go into your local Dollar Tree, they typically have them for $1.25 each.
Q. “Ok, well what about water bowl?”
Gravity Water Bowl
For a water bowl, I like this one that PetSmart carries. It is a gravity water bowl and it is the only one I’ve seen on the market that has a detachable stainless steel insert that the water is actually drunk from.
Q. “What should I do with my puppy when I am unable to watch him?”
A. I have several different recommendations of varying price point and ease of use and of varying necessity.
To start with the highest necessity item, let’s talk about crating. All dogs should be kennel trained. It could be a life saving skill. Also, we are talking about poodles. They will have to go to the groomer. There is a good chance the groomer will kennel your dog at some point during the appointment. We want to make that as pleasant as possible both for your dog and for your groomer.
Q. “What size and style of crate should I get?”
This is a matter of personal preference. My personal preference for puppies are wire crates with removable trays because it makes clean up MUCH easier. Other people like the hard plastic crates.
Traditional Hard Plastic Crate
I recommend starting with a 24-inch size crate, if you are opting to use a hard plastic crate.
These are not my favorite style of crate for puppies, because I dislike how difficult they are to clean, especially when a puppy has an accident and then SMASHES poop all up the walls of the crate.
Wire Crate
With wire crates, I recommend buying a 42-inch crate. They come with dividers so you can easily divide the crate to an appropriate size and grow with the puppy
Q. “What are some additional containment options that are not crates?”
A. If you are like me and you work from home, you may find yourself wanting to contain your pup while you are working, but not wanting to resort to the crate. BY NO MEANS does this substitute for the valuable enclosure of a crate, but this can help give you a safe space for your pup while you are busy and able to supervise.
These portable metal fencing systems are great and economically priced. You can set them up pretty much anywhere (including outside) and they serve this purpose well. They are a little ugly and the bars do need to be inspected regularly to make sure the welding hasn’t come undone, but for the price… its a good deal.
Dog Playpen, Heavy Duty Metal
These portable metal fencing systems are great and economically priced. You can set them up pretty much anywhere (including outside) and they serve this purpose well. They are a little ugly and the bars do need to be inspected regularly to make sure the welding hasn’t come undone, but for the price… it’s a good deal.
Clearly Loved Pets
If you are looking for a sleeker more aesthetically appealing option, I love my pen from Clearly Loved Pets. It has a very modern appeal, is highly customizable, and is just beautiful. On the other hand, it does come with a hefty price tag and is a pain in the butt to put together and take apart. If you are going to build it and leave it up, it is great!
Q. “What size collar should I get for my puppy? What about a harness?”
I HATE harnesses. I think they are dangerous, and teach the opposite of leash control and not pulling, and I also suspect they are part of the reason there has been an uptick in shoulder-related injuries in dogs in recent years. Harnesses do not allow for correct movement and restrict proper muscle development.
Ok… now that is out of my system, let’s talk collars and leashes.
Flat Collar - Quick Release
When most puppies go home, they will be able to wear a small collar or a medium collar, sized to the smallest setting.
A few things about collars:
Buy a Quick Release style collar. Dogs can and will get their collars caught on things (their crate, bushes, and other dogs while playing). If their collar cannot quickly release and/or they can’t get out of it, there is a great chance they will be strangled to death. No one wants to see that happen.
Don’t put your dog in a crate with a collar on. This is for the same reason as above. Strangulation can and does happen from the dog trying to escape the crate, getting the collar caught, and then tightening.
5-6 Front Clip Leather Leash
If you really like a more traditional style of lead, then this one works well. Or really any 5 - 6 foot lead will work fine. I just happen to like leather.
Q. “What type of leash do you recommend?”
Leather Slip Lead
It is a thin lead that fits well in my hand, is unobtrusive in photos and easily edited out, and most importantly it allows me to communicate effectively with the pup. This is a pressure-controlled leash. When the puppy is behaving properly the leash is slack, but the instant a correction is needed I am able to provide that correction.
50-Foot Training Lead
This type of leash is great for training recalls and down-stays.
Q. “What training treats do you like?”
A. Boy isn’t this just another multi-faceted question? There are so many options out there and different dogs like different things. These are some of the things I’ve found to be awesome treats. The biggest thing to avoid is anything Rawhide.
Roam Ostrich Bones
I like these Ostrich Marrow Bone Dog Chews as a teething aid for the pups and even the adult dogs. As with all bones, supervision should be given while in use. The structure of Ostrich Bones is unlike marrowbones such as the beef ones we might get from a butcher. Instead of gooey marrow inside, the ostrich bone has a hollow honeycomb center. The bone itself does not splinter or break into sharp shards at all.
Merrick Power Bites
These are nice and they come in a variety of flavors. You can break them into smaller pieces to give more to the pup as a reward.
Freeze Dried Beef Liver
This stuff is like doggie crack.
Whether your ambition is to get into competitive sports or just to have a playmate, you are getting a Standard Poodle for their intelligence, their elegancy, their all-around greatness. You are going to want to capitalize on that intelligence and energy by funneling it into approved activities because I can GUARANTEE you, if you don’t, She will find an activity on her own. I have compiled a list of games and toys to help you, help your poodle learn to be the best she/he can be.
These dogs are SMART and they want to work WITH YOU! These are some of the best ways to engage and build a bond that will last a lifetime.
Nosework Games
Nosey-Nose
brain and wear them out! This is a perfect beginner’s kit with easy-to-read instructions. You and your pup will love how easy this is to play, learn and bond.
Puppy Hide N’Slide
This is a nice simple interactive toy for your pup that doesn’t require as much engagement from you. This is perfect for those moments you are doing some housework or working from home and your pup just needs something to do for 5-10 minutes. Add in some treats/their kibble and watch as they work all the little puzzle flippers to earn that reward. After this, there is a good chance that little burst of energy will have worked itself out.
Scent Container
If you want to go the DIY route or if competitive nose work is in your future! (Ask me how to find events near you if you don’t know), then this is perfect for you. I use these for training all kinds of scents, including diabetic alert, competitive nosework scents, search and rescue, and allergy alert. These are cheap and versatile!
Leerburg UKC Nosework Kit
Finally, this official nosework kit is a little pricey, but if you are going to do competitive nosework, this is a lifesaver. The scents are the same as those used in trials.
Agility Games
Tunnel
It is so fun watching as the puppies run through the tunnels and jump out. This is great for building confidence in the tunnel, so when you begin working with official agility equipment they are already familiar with the small, dark, crinkly, wobbly texture. Even if you have no plans for agility, this is a great exercise for building confidence and resiliency in your pup when it comes to tunnels.
Wobble Board
The teeter-totter is a huge part of agility and this teaches nice foundation work for that exercise. The pup can jump on it, wobble around gain great confidence in the unpredictable movements. Even if you have no ambitions of doing agility with your pup in the future, I highly recommend this because it helps build some much confidence and resiliency to unusual movements and textures.
Pause Table
The pause board is SOOOOOO GREAT for teaching impulse control. It is a physical boundary that the pup can’t leave without permission, no matter what! Start with super short increments, slowly building the duration. This is also a great way of teaching release commands.
DogBone Shed Dog Training System
You will be amazed at how fast they figure out this game. And the scent is great! When I scent the horn, I make sure a little bit gets on my hand so I can remind Magic in case he forgets.
Duck Training Dummy
It floats! Toss this around a few times and build the drive for the retrieval, you can add the scent to make it a full-body exercise for the pup. Make every return a celebration and you’ll never need treats, she will retrieval just for the love of making you happy.
Scent Training System
A bunch of the various scents we use to make exposure and training more fluid.
Paw-rents Questions
Q. What grooming tools should I have?
A. As you know, poodles are a breed that requires frequent grooming. I highly recommend having a professional groomer who your poodle sees every 6-8 weeks, however if you prefer to groom yourself there are plenty of vidoes on YouTube to help you learn.
Regardless of whether you decide to have a professional groomer or DIY, you will still need to have some basic grooming supplies on hand for maintenance in-between.
Greyhound Comb
This thing is amazing. I highly recommend if you plan to keep a long coat.
Large Gap Greyhound Comb
I like to use this wide-tooth greyhound comb first to break up sections. Then switch to a finer comb
Dematting Comb
This dematting comb is used to remove knots, mats and tangles from the coat.
Regular Comb
If you don’t want to spend the money for a Greyhound Comb, These stainless steel combs are ok.
Chris Christensen Slicker Brush
I know this is an expensive brush… but it is worth it. I own 3.
iGroom Squeaky Clean Dog Shampoo
This is a great shampoo that dilutes well, so you can use it for a LOOOONG time.
iGroom Conditioner
This is a great conditioner that restores moisture.
Force Dryer
You will likely need to upgrade to a stronger dry if you plan to do all your grooming on your own, but if you just plan on here and there, this one works well.
Q. “What do you suggest we do about training?”
A.I HIGHLY recommend finding a dog training organization or personal trainer near you. And start as soon as possible! Don’t wait for a bad habit to develop and then try to break it. Get out in front and set yourself and your puppy up for success!
Use promo code VALAURAHFARMS for 25% Off
Nothing beat an in-person trainer, but this program can give you the guidance of an in-person trainer with one-on-one sessions.
The Dog Tricks & Training Workbook
This one is fun and will give you guidance and ideas on training your pup most effectively. ‘
Also, an ounce of mental stimulation is worth a pound of physical exercise… or something like that.
Think Like Your Dog
Communicating with your dog is essential for a strong relationship and eternal bond. Remember, dogs are not humans. They don’t think as we do. Dogs are opportunists, not deviants.
Canine Body Language: A Photographic Guide
Look, no matter how much we love our dogs and how much we THINK we understand them unless you truly know how to read body language you may be getting it wrong. Dogs are dogs, not humans. They talk to us, but are you capable of listening?
All right lets get down to business.
The puppies will be ready to leave beginning anytime after January 23rd. We can coordinate individually regarding exact travel details and time.
I will be providing the following items:
Waste Deposit Bags - 1 Roll
Scented Blanket
Informational Folder
Small Baggie of Food
You Should Bring the following (in addition to your carrier)
Leather Slip Lead/Collar & Leash
Blanket or towel for the crate
Potty Pad
Water/Food Dish
I highly recommend you work with Johnna Dick as a Flight Nanny. She is ABSOLUTELY amazing and will provide THE BEST care for your precious baby!
Johnna’s Phone Number: 208-651-0226
She is oftentimes flying, so if she does not answer, please send her a text message and leave a voicemail
I will provide your Flight Nanny with the following:
Health Certificate with Informational Folder
Scented Blanket
Small Baggie with Food
Informational Folder
Communicate Details to Me
I will need to know who the flight nanny is, their contact information and the date/time of the flight. If you are working with Johnna, then just let me know and she and I will coordinate.
I can work out the logistics of meeting and transferring the puppy into their care once I know who I need to work with.
This is just a reminder
Book your flight for you and your puppy. You may need to speak directly with someone associated with the airline regarding how to purchase a pet space.
Most flights accept a maximum of five pets per flight.
Purchase a carrier appropriate for the airline you are flying.
No matter what airline you are flying with, the pet has to be able to fit comfortably in the carry-on bag.
I recommend you buy the largest SOFT-SIDED size carrier marked as airline-approved for carry-on.
For Alaska, the acceptable sizes are:
Hard-sided 17”L x 11”W x 7.5”H
Soft-sided 17” L x 11”W x 9.5”H
Your pet counts to your carry-on bag allotment.
You may bring either a pet carrier and a personal item, or a pet carrier and a standard-size carry-on bag. You may not board the aircraft with a pet carrier, a standard-size carry-on, or a personal item.
YOU are responsible for procuring your own carrier.
YOU are responsible for procuring your own carrier.
YOU are responsible for procuring your own carrier.
I will provide you with the following :
Health Certificate with Informational Folder
Scented Blanket
Small Baggie with Food
Informational Folder
YOU Should Bring the following (IN ADDITION TO YOUR CARRIER)
Toys
Extra Potty Pads
Food/Water Dish
DO NOT USE THE PET RELIEF AREAS IN AIRPORTS. THEY ARE NASTY, UNCHECKED, AND A HUGE RISK FOR COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. REMEMBER YOUR PUPPY IS NOT FULLY VACCINATED AGAINST PARVO, DISTEMPER, OR ANY OTHER DISEASE.
Communicate Your Flight Details to Me
This is super important, as I will need to meet you at the airport and I live over an hour away from the airport. I know you don’t want to sit at the airport extra long waiting for me to arrive.
I have to get a health certificate dated within 72 hours of the flight, it is SUPER IMPORTANT I get this scheduled ASAP.
DO NOT USE THE PET RELIEF AREAS IN GAS STATIONS, DOG PARKS, ETC... THEY ARE NASTY, UNCHECKED, AND A HUGE RISK FOR COMMUNICABLE DISEASES. REMEMBER YOUR PUPPY IS NOT FULLY VACCINATED AGAINST PARVO, DISTEMPER, OR ANY OTHER DISEASE.
If you must use a potty area, I recommend bringing a tarp or blanket to lay down, placing a potty pad on the tarp, and then keeping the puppy on the tarp.
If we are planning to meet up in person I am planning a few trips to Moses Lake. I have availability to go to Moses Lake on the following dates, provided our weather isn’t too horrible.
January 23rd
January 26th
Ideally, I would like to bringing 2 or 3 puppies with me at a time to make, so if possible I would like to coordinate meeting multiple families at the same time-ish.
Trupanion Insurance
Sign up for your Trupanion Insurance. I am providing you with the first 30 days free, please sign up as soon as possible. Accidents happen and it is always best to have coverage. It does not require any credit card information to activate and will automatically cancel after 30 days if you choose to not renew it. It is simple and easy to activate and gives great peace of mind during these first 30 days.
You Will Not Be Able To Do This Until the Day BEFORE, THE DAY OF, or The day AFTER you receive your puppy. DO NOT do this early.
To activate your Trupanion insurance, please follow this link.
Your offer code is BR1VF92220
This is the part no one likes to talk about, but it is necessary.
For in-person pick-ups, the acceptable forms of payment are :
Cash - please come prepared
Zelle - 985-705-2797
Paypal - @valeriemitchem8 (however there is a 3% surcharge for using Paypal)
PUPPIES WILL NOT BE RELEASED WITHOUT FULL PAYMENT. This includes being released to the flight nanny. Puppies Must be paid for in full before departing.
For puppies flying out with you or with a flight nanny:
Cash (if you are the person I am meeting at the airport)
Zelle - 985-705-2797
Paypal - @valeriemitchem8 (however there is a 3% surcharge for using Paypal)
If the above graphic doesn’t look correct for you in any way, please let me know and we can double-check the records to make sure we get it completely correct. I am most definitely human and I certainly make mistakes.
Now that we have the logistics part of the equation covered, there are a few more things that need to be prepared prior to your puppy’s arrival.
Please send me the details you would like listed on the Microchip. Also the registration is pre-paid for this litter with AKC. Please send me the name you like to use for your registration. Remember it should start with Valaurah’s
·Don’t forget to get your crate, toys, and other goodies ready.
·Time to puppy-proof your house.
·Order your Baxter & Bella Lifetime Subscription. Use Promo Code VALAURAHFARMS to receive 25% off the subscription cost.
·Schedule your vet appointment within 72 hours of receiving your puppy.
·Stay Tuned for More Pup-dates and Additional Communication