Welcome Home, Pup: Resources for New Pet Parents

Plus: How to Book a Free Pet Parent Consultation with Pet Valu Brighton

Bringing home a new dog is equal parts heartwarming and overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or welcoming your very first rescue pup, those early days are packed with questions…What should I feed them? When can we start training? What do I need right now vs. later?

To help ease that transition, Saskatoon Dog Rescue includes a Devoted Pet Parent Guide from our partners at Pet Valu Brighton in every adoption bag. It’s packed with tips, timelines, and product suggestions to help your dog feel safe, loved, and set up for success.

Here are a few highlights from the guide that we think every new pet parent should know:

Start Socialization Early

The first few weeks are key to helping your dog become a confident and well-adjusted companion. According to Pet Valu’s Socialization Stages timeline:

At 8 weeks, begin exposing your pup (from a distance) to new people, sounds, and environments.

After 12 weeks, with 2 sets of vaccines, you can consider starting to socialize with trusted, vaccinated dogs (on private, familiar property) and enroll in a puppy class.

By about 16 weeks, fully vaccinated pups can safely explore busier areas like dog parks or patios.

Don’t Skip the Dental Care

Over 70% of dogs show signs of oral disease by age 3. Establishing a dental routine early, think toothbrushes, water additives, and dental treats, can make a huge difference in your pup’s long-term health.

Grooming Isn’t Just for Looks

Bathing, brushing, and nail clipping help your dog feel their best and build positive associations with handling and vet visits. Tip: Start slow and keep it positive!

Play = Training

Mentally stimulating games and simple training sessions strengthen your bond and help reduce unwanted behaviours. Keep things fun and consistent, rewards go a long way.

Need Help? Book a Free Pet Parent Consultation

If you’re feeling unsure or just want a bit of guidance, we highly recommend taking advantage of Pet Valu Brighton’s New Pet Parent Consultation.

This free 45–60-minute private session gives you:

1. Personalized product and care recommendations based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle

2. A custom Welcome Home Checklist

3. A Pet Parent Guide with up to $300 in savings (if you didn't already get one with an adoption bag!)

4. A store tour, including services like the Self-Serve Dog Wash

5. A follow-up call for additional support

To book, call 306-934-1041 or visit them at 85-145 Gibson Bend, Saskatoon, SK.

We’re grateful to Pet Valu Brighton for including their expert resources in every adoption bag, and for helping our rescue dogs (and their humans) thrive from day one.

Have questions about your new pup? Your SDR team is always here to help, but a consultation with Pet Valu can be a great next step.