So, you've decided to add a four-legged friend to your family and give a deserving pup a second chance at a happy life—kudos to you! Adopting a rescue dog can be a rewarding and life-changing experience, but it's important to be well-prepared for the journey ahead.
Here are seven friendly nuggets of wisdom to consider before you bring home your new furry companion.
1. Patience is Your Best Friend: Rescue dogs come from various backgrounds, and their past experiences can affect their behaviour. Be patient as your new pal adjusts to their new environment. It might take some time for them to trust you, but with love, understanding, and a dash of patience, you'll witness a remarkable transformation.
2. Size Matters (and So Does Energy Level): When it comes to choosing a rescue dog, size does matter—consider the size of your living space and lifestyle. A Great Dane might not be the best fit for a cozy apartment, just as a high-energy Border Collie might find a sedentary lifestyle a tad boring. Match your prospective pup's energy level with your own for a harmonious coexistence not just based on what breed you think is fun and cute.
3. Veterinary Checkup: Before you welcome your new friend home, schedule a visit to the vet. This ensures your rescue dog is in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations. It's a small step that makes a big difference in laying the foundation for a long and happy life together. Most rescues will provide extensive vet records at the time of adoption but if you feel so inclined you can also have the dog checked out too. Even you decide that what the rescue provided is enough, you should still head to a vet of your choice to get some bloodwork done and to do a quick check up so that your vet has some baseline information for the dog.
4. Training is a Two-Way Street: Training is essential for a well-behaved and happy pup, but it's not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. Take the time to understand your dog's personality, and tailor your training approach accordingly. Positive reinforcement and consistency go a long way in building a strong bond and teaching your new friend the ropes. Also, routine is EVERYTHING. Dogs are creatures of habit so keeping a consistent routine can help with your dogs behaviour.
5. A Safe Space Matters: Create a safe haven for your rescue dog within your home. A cozy bed, some toys, and a quiet corner provide them with a retreat where they can feel secure. This safe space is particularly crucial during the initial adjustment period when everything is new and potentially overwhelming. Tell family members, especially kids, that this space belongs to the dog so that they know not to invade it making the dog uncomfortable.
6. Socializing is Key: Slowly introduce your rescue dog to different people, places, and situations. Socializing helps build confidence and ensures that your furry friend grows into a well-rounded companion. From trips to the dog park to playdates with other pups, these experiences contribute to a happy and well-adjusted dog. When taking your dog to new places and for walks, be sure to allow them the time they need to sniff and explore. It is important not to pull on your dog while they are in the middle of sniffing. They are gathering information with their noses and filing it away in their brain which is very healthy for them.
7. Financial Considerations: Owning a dog comes with financial responsibilities. From food and grooming to veterinary care and unexpected expenses, it's essential to budget for your new family member. A little financial foresight ensures that you can provide the best care for your rescue dog without any unexpected financial stress. Regular vet visits can range from $150 - $400 depending on your vet and where you live and emergencies can cost anywhere from $800 up to $10,000.
Remember, adopting a rescue dog is a commitment filled with love, joy, and a few challenges. As you embark on this furry adventure, keep these seven tips in mind, and you'll be well on your way to building a strong and lasting bond with your newfound canine companion. The Punk Pet Apparel team is well versed in rescuing dogs so if you have any questions please feel free to email us at info@punkpetapparel.com
Happy tails await!