• Excellent Nutrition -
This is an important element of caring for a rescued Pomeranian. Due to past living situations, the dog may have a sensitive digestive system, and less is more when you get them home. Select a 5 star rated, made in the USA quality dog food with small enough kibble for toy breeds. Feed two times per day in small amounts each time, and do not add treats until you see how your new puppy or dog is adjusting.
If your pup has bad teeth or no teeth, feed a canned, wet food and be sure to drain/remove the gel that surrounds it before feeding. Store in container in the refrigerator and let each meal portion sit in feeding dish for about 10 minutes before feeding so it can warm up a bit.
It is not uncommon for shelter dogs to be a bit under-weight and part of caring for a rescued Pomeranian is to make sure that putting on weight is done carefully. Feed 4 times per day in small amounts and gradually increase amount per feeding and decrease feedings as your Pom gains strength and weight.
If your Pom is overweight, try a reduced fat food. Boiled skinless chicken shredded into super tiny pieces with a bit of boiled, skinless yam are usually well tolerated, and healthy to add to your dog's diet.
Ask your vet about probiotics, prebiotics and digestive enzymes if your pup has ongoing stomach upset or diarrhea.
• Veterinary Care -
Your new Pom may need blood tests to determine overall health and to rule out heart worms or erhlichia and other tick borne diseases. A wellness and dental exam plus stool sample to check for worms is also advised. A note of caution! While your Pom needs quality vet care upon arrival, develop a ‘first things first’ plan with your vet. There is no need to load up on vaccines, medications, procedures, grooming appointments, spay/neuter, Heartguard pills and flea prevention topical all at once!
Identify where your Pom is at, and prioritize what is needed.
Dental and heartworm/tick borne concerns need to be resolved right away, and done so based on the health of your Pom.
If a rescued Pomeranian needs to have the coat shaved down you will have to watch closely for chills and overheating, as well as drafts in sleeping area. Blankets they can crawl under or out of are great. Sweaters are perfect for trips outside, but remove inside to prevent overheating.
Rabies shots are required by law and your vet may advise doing them right away. Spay/neuter is in the best interest of your pom. Ask your vet when would be the safest time to do that based on his/her age and overall health.
If your dog is healthy enough to go under anesthesia, that can be a good time to do nails and ear cleaning and micro chipping to avoid the stress of doing so on a dog that is already having lots going on, and might not be comfortable being handled. D2PP vaccines can be given every three years based on risk, environment, exposure and age. Choose the three year rabies shot, as well. There is no need to over vaccinate your dog. Ask your vet!
• Do Your Research Get second opinions, ask questions and follow your instincts.
You are your Pom’s advocate, so the more informed you are the better! Be vigilant about medication dosing, storage, and possible interactions with other medications or herbal remedies. Ask your vet about holistic options. Follow all surgery after care instructions exactly as directed by your vet.