When I adopted my first dog, I was ecstatic to find that he was free to a good home.  He was being given away to anyone who could give him the exercise and training he needed as well as care for him on a daily basis.  No problem, I thought. Two meals a day, a bowl of water and a collar and leash and he would be just fine and dandy! How hard could it be to keep up with his care?  I learned the hard way. Like us on Facebook and let everyone know, I Heart Dogs! Even if your dog is free initially, there are costs that will very shortly follow your decision to adopt him.  Vet care needs to be provided within 3 days of bringing home a new puppy.  This includes a fecal exam to check for parasites, worming medication, vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, heartworm prevention...