Books and Articles by Marty Becker

If a natural disaster strikes, you should have an emergency kit and a plan for your pets. You're also wise to consider what would happen to your pets if you were in an accident or became ill suddenly and landed in a hospital with no time to prepare. ©Corners / Adobe StockMake sure your pet wears an ID tag with current contact information.

Keeping your dog healthy and happy involves having the right supplies, toys, and medicine on hand, knowing when to take your dog to the vet, and practicing preventive care.Photo: Alvan Nee / UnsplashThings to Buy Before Bringing Your Puppy HomeIf you plan to get a new puppy (or just did), be sure to have the following essential items either before, or shortly after, you bring your puppy into its new home.

Remember the saying: "You never get a second chance to make a first impression"? The idea works with dogs, too. No matter how happy you are to bring him home, no matter how much you want to make up for the shabby way he was treated before you got him, start him off right from the beginning. Decide what the house rules are and stick to them, for the first couple of months, at least.

Euthanasia, the technical term for putting a dog to sleep, is one of the hardest decisions you will ever make, and it doesn't get any easier, no matter how many times over the years you face it. Your veterinarian can offer you advice and your friends can offer you support, but no one can make the decision for you.

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Seek urgent veterinary care if your dog displays any of the following symptoms. If your dog is ever injured or sick and you are not sure what to do, call your vet. Always better safe than sorry! Allergic reactions, such as swelling around the face, or hives, most easily seen on the belly Any eye injury, no

Always keep the following items handy in case your dog needs minor medical attention. It's best to even create a special first-aid bag or medicine chest exclusively for your dog: Adhesive tape Benadryl antihistamine Betadine antiseptic Buffered aspirin Cotton swabs, balls, and rolls Eye wash

Be pro-active to prevent illness and injury and keep your dog healthy and happy. Use the list below as a guide for care at each stage of your dog's life. Also, talk with your vet about what is best for you and your pet. Puppy veterinary care Initial exam within 48 hours of adoption. Four to five combination vaccinations at three-week intervals, starting at the age of 6 to 8 weeks.

When picking a preferred type of dog, you may consider what kind of fur the breed will be sharing with your household. All dogs are covered with fur, except for the hairless Chinese Crested and a couple of other rare hair-free breeds. Fur comes in an almost infinite variety of Lengths: Boxer short to floor-dragging Komondor long.