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 Adopting a new dog is such a rewarding
experience—you’ve just rescued him from a shelter or
rescue group and have made the lifelong commitment
to having a loyal companion. There are some things
you’ll need—material and otherwise—that will make
the transition easy for both you and the dog.
- PATIENCE!! This is a given, hopefully, but
you have to remember that you don’t know what
this animal has been through. Especially if
they’re coming from a rescue group, they’re
probably confused as to why they’re being taken
from their “home”—again—and they’ll need a lot
of love, attention and TIME to adjust to their
new surroundings.
- Before picking up the dog, contact
the rescue group or shelter and find out what
you’ll need. Some groups will provide some
items/food, some will not, so you’ll need to be
prepared. A short and not even close to
comprehensive list includes: collar, leash,
food/water dishes, toys, treats, food, potty
pads/newspaper (depending on how housebroken
they are), and bedding. To avoid potential
gastrointestinal issues, it’s a good idea to
keep them on the same food because that’s what
they’re used to. However, if the food they’re on
(especially in some shelters) isn’t high
quality, you’ll need to transition the food over
from old to new by blending it over a period of
days.
- If you know your new pet’s breed
(or mixes of breeds!), do some research! Go
online, go to the library, and read up on your
new companion. Taking the time to find out more
about their breed and habits may save time and
trouble in the long run.
- Also, find out if your new dog has
been to a veterinarian. If he is current on all
of his/her medical needs, it’s still a good idea
to find a vet in the event of an emergency. If
you are adopting your dog from a rescue, they
will provide you with all of the vet care
sheets. Ask your neighbors and friends with pets
who they would recommend and make an appointment
for a general exam—this way, you and your new
pet can meet the vet and make sure he/she is
right for you.
- Once the dog is in his/her new
home—your home!--, you’ll need to take the time
to show him/her around. Show him/her where
his/her food and water will be kept, walk
him/her around the yard, and spend a lot of time
talking to him/her in a soothing voice and just
let him/her feel your presence. Remember that
he/she’s going to be overwhelmed and may not be
as happy as you are, so give him/her time to
adjust.
- During the first few weeks, you’ll
probably want to confine your new pet. Not only
because you’re not sure if he/she’ll be
destructive, but also because he/she’s in a new,
big house and that actually makes dogs more
anxious. And an anxious dog is
unpredictable!! Until you’re sure of his/her
behavior while you’re gone, you’ll want to
confine him/her to a small area of the
house—such as the kitchen or a bathroom--, or
even a size-appropriate kennel.
- Remember to be CONSISTENT. Don’t
allow him/her to do some things sometimes and
then reprimand him/her for it other times. Don’t
ever yell or hit—you can use a loud, stern voice
with the same effect. Be patient and reward good
behavior, either with a treat or some other
positive reinforcement. And again, you have to
remember that you don’t know what type of
environment he/she came from, so don’t push
something on him/her that he/she’s reluctant to
do, and don’t get upset if it doesn’t go as
quickly/well as you’d like it to---both of you
need time and patience to adjust!
If you follow these simple tips, it will make for
a good adjustment period for everyone. If you have
any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact
your vet or the rescue you adopted your dog from,
most rescues are happy to help out. If necessary,
invest in a good, positive obedience class. You’ve
made a lifelong commitment to this animal, and it’s
up to you to make sure that he gets the love and
support he needs for the adoption to be
successful. Good luck and good loving!
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