DOG
Thumper
Thumper is a beagle around 4 years old that has been at PALS, an animal shelter in Grinnell, Iowa, for some time and got adopted last week as of 5/4/2025.
Dogs are loyal, affectionate creatures. Many are friendly towards people, but you should respect their thoughts and feelings.
Understanding how dogs communicate through their body language and behavior will lead to a harmonious, trusting relationship between you and your dog that keeps both of you happy and safe.
Just like humans, dogs also have many physical needs that need to be met. To learn what to purchase to take care of them, keep reading!
Each dog’s nose print is unique.
Dogs dream in their sleep.
Dogs can read facial expressions and even mirror human behavior.
Why You Should Get a Dog
There are a variety of reasons why you might want to or should get a dog. Among these, three in particular stand out: they provide emotional support; they add routine to your life; and they give unconditional love.
Dogs Provide Emotional Support
Dogs can ease stress and provide comfort through their companionship. They have the incredible ability to sense human emotions and know when you’re feeling anxious, lonely, or sad. Petting a dog provides therapeutic benefits, like lowering stress and anxiety, helping the body relax, and boosting one’s mood. For many, simply having a dog around them brings a sense of calm and stability.
Caring for a Dog Adds Routine to Your Life
Dogs thrive on a set schedule or routine that involve regular feeding time, walks, play time, etc. To take care of a dog means to structure your day with that purpose in mind. This consistency can be especially helpful during times of stress or when you feel unmotivated. Knowing that your dog is counting on you can be the push you need to stay responsible for your dog and yourself.
The time you spend caring for your dog can even become moments that contribute to your own well-being. Acts like walking a dog daily will also make you healthier and more active. You’ll find yourself a little happier when playing with and interacting with your dog.
Dogs Give Unconditional Love
The love dogs give is pure. Unlike society, dogs do not judge you or base their love on expectations they have of you. Whether you come back from a bathroom break or from a day of hard work at school or at a job, dogs are always eager to see you. Their love is selfless, and they are there for you no matter what.
How to Read a Dog’s Body Language
Dog Supplies on a Budget
Food
Food is the most expensive item on this supply list as it is a recurring expense, but since this is ingested by your dog, it is essential to get high-quality dog food. This chicken and brown rice recipe dog food by the brand Blue Buffalo is one such healthy option.
Bowls
For placing food and water in, these two stainless steel bowls are sturdy and easy to clean.
Bed
Providing your dog with a proper orthopedic bed ensures that they get a comfortable sleep and that their body is supported.
Carrier
For small to medium-sized dogs, a dog carrier or crate is crucial for outdoor travel, especially in public places that require dogs to be inside these carriers/crates.
Leash
A leash is necessary to walk your dog. Getting a durable one ensures that you don’t have to worry about your dog running off and getting lost.
Collar
This collar allows a leash and an ID tag to be clipped onto it for walking and for identification purposes respectively.
Toys
Toys provide dogs with the stimulation and enrichment they need to be happy and fulfilled. Although having more than one dog toy is recommended, if you had to get only one, get this snowman-like rubber toy from KONG. Its shape and material make the toy unpredictably bouncy, and you can even stuff treats inside it, serving multiple purposes. It is a toy that your dog can play with one their own.
Grooming Brush
Depending on what type of hair your dog has, grooming often is required to prevent hair matting and to maintain a healthy coat.
Dog Shampoo
A dog-safe shampoo helps keep your dog clean and smelling nice. This lavender-scented shampoo in particular can even have calming effects for your dog.
Nail Trimmer
Routine nail trimming keeps your dog’s nails tidy and as is a part of keeping your dog safe and healthy as untrimmed nails can affect mobility and may possibly cause pain.
Treats
Treats are good for training and rewarding your dog. Like the regular food you feed your dog, your dog treats should also be high-quality.
Dog Toothbrush & Toothpaste
For your dog’s dental health, it is important for you to maintain the cleanliness of your dog’s teeth by brushing their teeth often.
Poop Bags
It is a matter of respect to pick up after your dog. It is even illegal not to in many places. Although it may not seem necessary to buy, poop bags are quite cheap and perform well for their singular use, like in this product where you get a great deal for 900 poop bags and a dispenser. Thus, it is worth the money to invest some poop bags.
ID Tag
In the case that your dog gets lost, an ID tag can help people identify and return your dog to you.
Pee Pads
Pee pads are needed for potty training but more importantly if you don’t have easy access to an outdoor area for your dog to relieve themselves.
Looking to Get a Dog?
Why not adopt a dog at PALS? PALS is an animal shelter in Grinnell, Iowa. They have loving puppies and dogs ready to be taken into a home and to become a part of your family.