As "Pick Out / Take Home" puppy nears,  I want to provide you with go home instructions.  In addition to the puppy, you will get the AKC registration form/envelope, pedigree information, letter, medical records, litter certificate, baggie of food, and a towel and/or toy with Mom's scent.

1.  The puppies will have been on Purina Pro Plan Focus Large Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Puppy Food (one year & under - pictured below), but can be switched off by mixing 75/25, 50/50, 25/75 of current food with their new food over time.  I will send a baggie of food with you.  The pups will have been eating approximately ⅓ to ½  cup 2x daily.

2. They had their check-up, worming, & vaccination at 6 weeks of age (heartworm prevention + dewormer, Interceptor Plus; and their first DHPP L2+C vaccine), which means they will need another vaccination around 9 weeks. Please plan a "wellness" check with your vet within 48-72 hours of pick-up.  This allows your vet to verify the puppy is healthy and provides you with an opportunity to receive his/her recommendations and schedule of vaccinations.  

3.  A 42" crate with a divider for night time crate training works well and can grow with your pup.  Use the divider to make the crate small enough so it doesn't have too much room.  Otherwise, the pup may begin to potty in the corner.   The crate is not ideal for play, so you may want to set-up a fenced-in play area for your pup.  A rabbit pan with equine bedding (Tractor Supply) works well as a potty box.  

4)   Even though your pup had its first round of shots, it is still vulnerable until a week after the final round of shots (12-13 weeks).  It is best to minimize his socialization with other dogs & people.  If on the road and a potty break is needed, choose a remote place not frequented by other dogs. Your vet will be able to elaborate on your puppy's vulnerable stage.

5)  You may want to purchase puppy toys, a puppy bone, and soft training treats.  Training is essential.  Rough play such as "bite my hand" or rough handling is not encouraged.  Gentle and kind play will teach the pup to be a gentle and kind adult.  For professional training, I use Serenity Ranch Kennels in Flatonia, TX. 

6)  On  “go home” we ask that the remaining balance be paid in cash since the puppy is leaving our home.  If you wish to hold your puppy on the way home, please bring a towel because on rare occasions, a puppy can get car sick.