NEW PUPPY

The Byrne family arrived at the clinic with their first ever puppy. The children had been looking forward to this day. It was a pleasure to see the delight in their faces as they carried in their new friend. Tiggy was a seven week old puppy, who seemed overawed by all the attention.

I gave him a thorough physical check over to make sure that he was as healthy as he seemed. Sometimes young puppies have problems which an owner might not notice. Congentital problems such as heart murmurs or hernias are quite common. Other puppies may be carrying diseases such as skin parasites or ear infections.

After the physical examination, Tiggy was given his first vaccination against serious viral diseases which are commonly found in Ireland. He will return to the clinic when he is twelve weeks old for his final injection. The Byrnes were advised not to take him out on the streets before then, since he would not be fully protected. He could easily pick up an infection by sniffing an area of ground where another dog had soiled.

However, I also stressed to the Byrnes the importance of 'socialising' their new dog. puppies are very impressionable between the ages of 6 and 12 weeks, and it is important that they are not kept in isolation. They should be shown as much of the world as possible, without exposing them to any risk of infection. They should be taken out in the car for short drives, carried down a busy street in a safe pair of arms, and introduced to any (fully vaccinated) dogs and cats in the neighbourhood. If puppies experience a wide variety of loife's wonders at an early age, they are more likely to be relaxed, confident adult dogs.

The Byrne children left the clinic in an excited babble, jostling each other to give Tiggy another cuddle. The start of Tiggy's new life as a family pet had begun, and everybody was enjoying him.

THE END

**Fun 4 All Kids hopes that all those children who are getting a new pet to remembers to take good care of them. Do not forget to bring them to your local vet for a check up and take your vets advise. A pet is a wonderful addition to any family and needs just as much love and looking after as any family member. Wishing you and your pet many happy years together.