Adopting a puppy or older dog can be tough work, especially if you’re considering getting a rescued dog from a shelter or foster home. Rescued small dogs and big dogs come with their own histories and difficulties, which makes managing their integration into your household somewhat more of a chore than it is when bringing home dogs from breeders. Adopting a puppy who has a difficult past means that owners have to be patient more than anything else. Just like people, dogs hold on to painful memories, whether that means abusive homes, impoverished environments, or abandonment.
King Komb is here with all the answers for owners interested in dogs for adoption. We’ll explain what owners have to do in order to make sure their new pets adapt quickly and healthily into their new environments. Keep reading!
The first thing owners have to think about when adopting a puppy or older dog from a shelter or foster home is the emotional state the dog is in when they first bring it home. Rescued dogs are often shipped from one shelter to another or one foster family to another, and they might not be immediately ready to live an easy life in your home, no matter how welcoming and loving you are. Find out about their personal histories if that information is available and make your plans accordingly. Remember that it is normal for rescued small dogs or big dogs to want to be on their own at first. Let them hide in a room or space they feel comfortable in. Eventually, they will come around.
The early days owning a rescued sheltered pet is often the hardest, on the one hand for the animal, who may not be used to their new space or family, but also for the owner, who so desperately wants to make a connection with their new furry friend. Be sure to have the house stocked with toys and proper food, water bowls, and dog beds when you bring your new dog home. Try not to do too many errands on the way home from the adoption, as this might only scare the dog more. Dogs are intelligent and sensitive, and they will understand when they are being treated kindly and appropriately. Sooner or later, they’ll reward their new owners with affection and long-lasting love.
Some rescued dogs who are especially frightened when they come may have occasional accidents inside the house. Try not to punish the dog for these mistakes. Instead, try to understand their level of fear. Bring them outside as often as possible and mix up the time they spend on and off the leash. Patiently let them know you’re there for them and can take care of their needs.
Adopting a puppy or older dog from a shelter or foster home can be an amazing experience. However, one thing that can get in the way early on is if owners already have other pets at home who have claimed their territory. Be sure not to leave the new and resident dog alone for an extended period of time, in case they get into a bit of an argument. Slowly introduce them to each other’s scent and physical presence, and consider having them sleep in separate rooms until you’re sure they are safe in each other’s presence.
We have all seen pictures of rescued dogs before and after their adoption, and it is well known that a dedicated and patient owner can make the process a beautiful one if they follow a specific set of ground rules and respect their new pet’s space. If it is taking a while to get your adopted dog feeling comfortable, consider consulting a veterinarian or pet expert here at King Kanine to see if there are any natural, organic products that can potentially ease the dog’s anxiety and make the integration process a quicker one.
King Kanine is here to help! If you have any questions or comments, please be sure to post them below. We’re waiting to hear from you.