Are you intending to adopt a rescued dog soon? Several of our patients were rescued. While they all have unique histories and tales, many are currently enjoying their best doggie life as beloved pets and companions. Giving a sweet puppy a second opportunity at happiness is immensely rewarding and satisfying. However, it’s vital to recognize that large changes, even pleasant ones, can be frightening and stressful for Fido, particularly if he’s gone through some difficult experiences in the past. Continue reading for ideas from a local Saginaw, MI veterinarian on how to help a rescue dog settle in.

How Long Does It Take a Rescue Dog to Fully Adjust?

Each dog is a little different. The exact time will be determined based on Fido’s age and previous experiences. A puppy will probably settle in fairly fast. The 3/3/3 rule is an excellent overall guideline to follow. The breakdown is that Fido will require three days to decompress and get the lay of the land, three weeks to adjust to his new surroundings, and three months to truly feel at home.

Where Should a Rescue Dog Sleep the First Night?

There is no hard and fast rule for this, as it will depend on the size of your home and whether or not you have additional pets.

You should consider where you want Fido to sleep permanently. If his doggy bed is in the living room, you can always spend the night on the couch to stay close. Keeping your new canine companion in a small space for the first few days is not a bad idea. If you have a spare bedroom, you can set up your dog’s essentials there. If you have other pets, we strongly advise keeping your new addition in a different room.

It’s usually advisable to avoid letting your dog sleep in your bed right away. While up to half of pet owners allow their furry friends to sleep with them, it’s best to let your pup adjust and feel safe first.

How Can I Help Fido Feel Safe?

We wish we could wave a wand and have this happen instantly. Unfortunately, this is not an option.

Time is the most important factor. It will take many modest kindnesses and moments for your pet to feel truly safe. Expect your pet to sleep a lot at first. That’s normal. Dogs understandably find shelters quite frightening. Fido will probably need a few days to decompress.

Toys are also significant. These serve multiple purposes. The primary goal is to keep dogs entertained. However, playing is crucial because it provides dogs with a healthy outlet for any stress they are experiencing. Playing with your puppy is another excellent approach to strengthen your bond with him. Many dogs, especially fearful ones, love having comfort toys to snuggle with. This may be a good bet for a shelter dog. However, every dog has distinct preferences, so provide a variety.

Training

Rescue dogs sometimes need more work here. Fido may already know the most basic obedience commands. Or he might still be working on ‘Sit.’ Taking the time to train your pet every day can be very beneficial. Doing this at the same time every day can help Fido establish a habit and feel more safe. It also helps shy dogs gain confidence. Our canine companions are adorably pleased with themselves after mastering a new trick!

Treats

Normally, we advise folks not to go overboard with treats. That remains true, although you can indulge Fido a little more than normal here. Use tiny snacks to avoid overfeeding your dog. Small amounts of high-quality treats, such as steak bits, can definitely make your pet feel loved and safe. 

Trust

Trust must be gained, and it won’t happen overnight. Patience, consistency, and plenty of tender loving care are required. Always be kind with Fido and address him in a friendly, calming tone of voice. Keeping your pet on a constant routine for walks, meals, and playing will be quite beneficial here. If your pet has any behavioral issues, instead of punishing them, focus on positive reinforcement and addressing the underlying reason.

Bringing Fido Home

Bringing a rescue dog home is a momentous occasion for both the owner and their pet. However, it can be quite overwhelming for Fido. You’ll need to ease him into it.

We always recommend taking your pup for a walk around the block before bringing him into your home. There are several reasons for this. The most obvious is that it allows him to relieve himself. However, it also allows Fido to expel any tense energy, which will make him feel calmer afterwards. It also allows your pet to become acquainted with his new surroundings. That’s far less frightening for a dog than wondering what’s outside.

Preparing For A Rescue Dog.

Petproofing is an important necessary step when preparing for a rescue dog—or any other dog. Fido is lively and interested, with a large appetite and a propensity of investigating things by eating them. That’s a fairly deadly combination. Anything that is dangerous to your pet should be removed or secured.

That list contains the following:

• Toxic Plants
• Medication
• Vitamins
• Household chemicals, such as cleaning agents; automotive products; the chemicals used in lawns and gardens; and pesticides, such as slug bait and fertilizer.
• Anything small and/or sharp
• Personal belongings, such as wallets
• Small items of clothing
• Plastic bags and ties
• Wires and cords

If you have a yard, you should have a look about. Make sure your fence is secure. We’d also recommend getting a self-latching gate.

Some shopping is also in order. You’ll need to get food, snacks, toys, bedding, waste bags, a tie line, a harness or collar, a leash, ID tags, grooming equipment, and, of course, goodies.

Let Love Grow

One of the first things you should do is schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Your dog will need a thorough examination from nose to tail. Microchipping and spay/neuter procedures should also be on the list. This is a great chance to get guidance from your vet.

Aside from that, don’t have too many plans for that first week or two. Just allow Fido the time and space he needs to feel safe and appreciated. That could take two minutes or two months, but that unique moment when Fido first wags his tail when he sees you can be very powerful and fulfilling.

Make An Appointment At Your Saginaw, Mi Veterinary Clinic

Do you have any questions about adopting a rescued dog? Contact us, your local Saginaw, MI pet hospital, at any time!