I confess that I am addicted to lists.
Alright, I admit that lists have become a necessity because my senior brain cells cannot retain a thought for more than a second. If I don’t write it down immediately, its gone.
Lists are great for organizing ideas. Lists inspire action and goal-setting because what is more satisfying than crossing off all those TO DOs on your TO DO list?
So here, in response to questions about what equipment to buy for a dog, is a list of the items that dogs REALLY need:
1. Water Bowl – stainless steel is best (plastic can leach chemicals, ceramic and glass can break)
2. Food Bowl – see #1
3. Dog Food – the best quality you can afford; click HERE for how to choose a brand
4. Dog Bed – you determine the quality and price; your dog doesn’t care as long as he’s near you
5. Collar – leather or cloth or nylon (not a choke or prong); make sure it fits properly
6. Leash – 6 feet long cotton (easier on your hands than nylon)
7. Identification Tag – with your dog’s name and your phone number
8. License – register your dog with your municipality PLEASE
9. Rabie
s Tag – courtesy of your veterinarian after inoculation
10. Microchip – your vet can do this quickly and the minor cost is worth the peace of mind
11. Kong Toy – endlessly stuffable and amusing; find the size and chewing strength that suits your dog
I would probably also add some kind of seat or restraint for the car. It seems inevitable that this will be required by law eventually.
Notice what is NOT on the list:
Fancy clothes (short haired, easily chilled dogs like Greyhounds and Chihuahuas do need a coat on cold days)
Sunglasses
Strollers
Sling carriers
Hooded sweatshirts
Hats
Personalized placemats
Plush stuffed lobsters from your trip to Cape Cod
That said, I admit I enjoy shopping for my dogs as much as the next guy and have invested in a doting dog parent collection of life-like squirrels, Buster Cubes, and Nylabones. I also have PFDs (personal flotation devices) for my kayaking pups, and reflective vests for hiking and nighttime walks.
So, what else should be on The List? What item is a necessity for your dog?
Comments