Last Updated on November 1, 2023 by Dogs Vets
What Does It Take to Care for a Rescue Dog?
A pet lover wants to have a dog to enjoy its companionship, trustworthy nature, warmth, and little tantrums. While bringing one home is an excellent thought, what can make a real difference is where you get one from.
Many people shop for them, which has become a highly commercialized practice sans an emotional connection with pets.
However, shelters that house dogs and cats tend to be more sensible and genuinely caring for these lives. They want them to have a better and happy life ahead. Unfortunately, more than six million animals get into shelters, but only slightly more than three million find their takers. Consequently, the majority have to face euthanasia.
If you truly believe in saving innocent lives, look for rescue dogs. When you bring one home, the other neglected or needy animal finds a safe place to shelter.
So, it has a well-intentioned domino effect. However, adopting a rescue dog requires specific preparations. Because they need time to settle down in their new surroundings, your efforts toward building a conducive atmosphere will help them decompress, pick up new commands, and feel comfortable.
Generally, they need around three days to relax, three weeks to learn the rules, and three months to adapt to the new home. So, let’s see what you can do in advance to make them feel at home from early on.
Calmer home boundaries
Finding a free rein in the house on day one itself can be overwhelming for them. They may feel less safe. Instead, assign small rooms or corners that look safer. And that space should exist even after they become a full-fledged family member. It helps them retreat from any overpowering emotions.
Make that designated nook for your new rescue pet calming with dim lights, a cozy bed, and soothing music. A nervous dog may seek things to chew on. Ensure to remove anything that can harm them or your belongings.
You can add toys, lick mats, and others. Also, let the dog stay there for as long as they desire for the first day. Do you have more dogs at home? Keep them away from the new one until the new pet becomes familiar with the surroundings. It will be better to keep a check on new visitors also.
Wait for them to show signs of becoming comfortable, such as playing, interacting, resting, and no potty accidents.
Set routines
Dogs like to do things per the schedule. It helps them stay calm and perform better in other areas, such as training. Generally, adults empty their bladder thrice or four times daily, while puppies can do it more.
Fix a spot where they should pursue this biological process. Walk them to that area after they wake up, eat, play, etc. If they follow the path, treat and praise them wholeheartedly. Setting up predictable structures is crucial to familiarize them with their new daily life. However, these patterns are beyond the realm of strict timing.
For example, they should visit the potty after they are awake. But they don’t need to be woken up for this at the same hour if they were asleep.
Hence, try building structures based on their needs. Mature dogs eat two times every day, and pups need frequent feeding. Exercising requirements also vary based on their age and health.
With all these little details, you can soon win over the heart of your rescue dog, who may have been too emotional or nervous when it entered your house for the first time.
