Adopting a dog from a shelter is the best way to bring a new family member into your home.
From buying a dog at a pet store to buying a dog from a breeder, there are lots of ways to bring a new member into your family. However, adopting a dog from a shelter is one of the most noble things you can do, because it means saving that dog’s life. However, the transition from shetler life into your home may not be as smooth as it would be if you were to buy a dog from a breeder, especially if the dog comes from an abusive background. Here are a few tips to help you welcome a shelter dog into your home:
#1. Make sure you’re ready to meet the dog’s special needs.
Most shelters are extremely good about informing adoptive puppy parents of any special needs, but it doesn’t hurt to ask. It’s important to ensure that you are ready and able to meet the dog’s needs, whatever they may be. For instance, if the dog was recently in a home where they were abandoned for days at a time, you may want to reconsider adopting them if you work 12-hour days.
#2. Take some time off of work.
Don’t adopt a shelter dog and then immediately head to work for the full day. Your new dog will need some time to get to know you, but in order for them to do that, you need to be there! Plan to take a few days of work off after you bring your new dog home.
#3. Ease your dog into their new life.
Your dog may not warm up to their new family or lifestyle right away, and you shouldn’t force them to jump into anything. Be patient and give your dog plenty of time to ease into their new life. And, don’t lose hope if, after warming up to you and starting to feel more comfortable, your dog reverts back into their old ways when they’re scared or unsure. It takes lots of time and love to help a dog recover from a troubled background.
#4. Get your new dog into a routine.
Dogs are creatures of habit, and one of the best ways to ease your dog into their new life is to get them on a routine. Exercise, play with and feed your dog at the same time every day. Make sure that you take your dog outside on a regular basis, and that they go to bed and get up at around the same times every day. When your dog knows what to expect each day, it will help to ease some of their anxiety, and help them to feel more comfortable.
#5. Enroll your new dog in dog classes.
Dogs need to be trained, and that’s true no matter how old they are or what sort of background they come from. Dog training classes can address everything from basics, like potty training, to behavior issues, like aggression. There are age-specific training classes, as well as one-on-one training. The best part about dog training is that it also helps to teach you how to be consistent and train your new dog effectively.
Find the right veterinarian in Carroll Gardens for your new dog with The Vet Set.
In addition to helping your new dog grow accustomed to their new lifestyle and family, it’s also important to find the right veterinarian to care for your new dog. Not only is important to bring him or her for a visit as soon as possible after adopting, you’ll also need to bring him or her in for regular examinations. And, if an emergency arises, you need to know where to take your new dog. Luckily, with The Vet Set on your side, the decision is easy. Visit us online today to learn more.