Health & Wellness Jan 2021
Tips to bringing home your new rescued dog:
If you’re thinking about rescuing a new dog, there are some important points to consider as you incorporate your new pup into your home environment. Bringing home a new dog is a learning process for you and your dog, and it is important to have a plan to make the transition as smooth as possible.
House training will take some work. Don’t expect your new dog knows where to go to the bathroom upon entering your home. Just like it is for humans, potty training is a learning process. Take potty breaks every half hour or so and reward your dog every time he goes to the bathroom outside. Also, consider creating a safe smaller space to prevent accidents.
Potty training is about creating a regular, recognizable routine for your dogs. They are creatures of habit, and it is essential to build a complete routine in all aspects of their life once they enter the home. Going to the bathroom should start early in the morning and continue until late at night before bed. During the day, establish a regular exercise time, and feed them at the same point each day. Even tooth brushing in the evening can be built in as part of the routine. It will all help them adapt and feel less stressed. The structure of the routine is the cornerstone of their comfort.
Give your dog time when introduced to new places or people. It is important for the dog to learn socialization skills, but it doesn’t need to be rushed. When introducing him to new dogs, keep the dog on the leash so he can fully understand the new situation, and so you can control the situation in case things go wrong. Never expect that your dog will be fine around other dogs simply because you have a friendly pup. You don’t know the other dogs’ behaviors, and dogs have their own language when meeting one another for the first time. Learn from your dog’s body language and reactions, and pay attention to how they respond to noises, environments and other dogs and people.
Lastly, prepare to be separated. Eventually, you will need to leave your dog home alone. Make sure the dog goes potty before you leave and that she has exercised that day. Also, leave the dog in her safe area – perhaps in a gated area – in the kitchen or a different room in your house. Don’t leave food around that might attract your dog and cause accidents. Leave a blanket and toy or perhaps something with your smell, so the dog feels more comfortable. Avoid long goodbyes to prevent separation anxiety and give a treat before leaving to soothe the separation.
Ultimately, incorporating a new dog into your home will be a process. But with a proactive strategy, planning, and the building of a routine, you can make things less stressful for your new addition.
