7 Hints On Adopting a Dog From the Pound

3. Your new dog will be stressed when you first bring them home..

A boy and his new dog

Your rescue animal has just been displaced twice.  First from his first home, and now from the pound.  When you get them home, allow them time to explore their new home.  Don’t overwhelm the animal with too many people.

Show her to her new bed and new flatmate (if you already have an animal) and let them settle in quietly. Give him or her some space, and allow them to come to you – when they are ready.

4. Will your current animal and your new animal get along?

This is a huge consideration.  My current labrador is used to being an ‘only pet’.  And boy was she miffed when we bought home a new addition.  It took awhile for her to get used to having a sister – and for them to bond.  But the great thing about it is that Sookie has taught Bella how to behave. Because our new pet had some very bad habits!  Make sure that both animals are ‘kind’ to each other and discourage any behaviour that may affect the other.

Plus make sure you make a big fuss about your current animal too – you don’t want them to resent their new doggy friend.

5. It May Take Time To Bond to Your New Pet

Puppy cuddles

Your new dog may miss his old family… and he has to get used to yours.  Go do something your new dog will enjoy.  Throwing the ball or stick.  Playing chasey or just having a nice cuddle in the sun.  Let your new dog know that you love and care for him, and that this is now his home.  It may take awhile for that bond to develop… but don’t push them… Let them approach you at their own pace, and you will be rewarded with drooly kisses!

6. You Inherit Other People’s Bad Habits

The first week Bella ripped up her orthapaedic bed we bought for her

Your new animal hasn’t been to your house before and is not aware of how he or she is expected to behave.  Be firm from the beginning.  Rescue animals have often been abused in the past, so they need loads of love and cuddles.  But if they over-step the mark – use your voice to gently ‘tell them off’.  Wait a few minutes, then give them a cuddle.

7. All in All they just want to Please You

“I’ll be good Mummy!”

Having a Rescue animal can be the best thing your family does.  And giving a dog a new lease on life is a good feeling.  But make sure you get the right dog for you and your family to avoid any potential future trouble.

Animal shelters are beyone important as they care for abandoned or neglected animals of all shapes and sizes…They also provide temporary homes for animals forced out on the street. Animal shelters are invaluable to communities around the world. They work for a noble cause, helping those who have no voice. Check out Donorbox for some awesome ideas that can help propel your local animal shelter’s fundraising to new heights!!!