Bringing home a new pet is exciting and joyful, but welcoming a dog — particularly if he or she is a rescue — can also be a bit nerve wracking at the same time. And if you, as the pet parent, are feeling this kind of anxiety, just think about how your new puppy or adult dog might be feeling coming into a new place for the first time. You want to get it right. You want them to feel at ease and at home instantly, but more often than not, rescue pups need time to adjust.
With this helpful guide, your new rescue dog — no matter the age, breed, or previous situation — will feel safe, loved, and content in their furever home. Just remember, the below tips are meant to act only as a general resource for pet parents. Every rescue dog (or puppy) is different and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult a professional — your vet, a trainer, even a pet behaviorist — to dig deeper into any specific issues your new dog might be experiencing.
Before you bring them home
First, know that bringing home a rescue dog is an admirable decision: Data shows that 6.5 million companion animals enter the shelter system every year, of which roughly 3.3 million are dogs, according to the ASPCA. Getting to this point meant you likely spent a lot of time considering what size or kind of dog or puppy to welcome…
How to Help a Rescue Dog Adjust to Their New Home. Retrieved August 18, 2021 from https://embarkvet.com/resources/blog/how-to-help-a-rescue-dog-adjust-to-their-new-home/