Dogs are social creatures; they want to be with their respective families and be included in regular actions and life. It is disconcerting that some people purchase dogs just to line them up and let them live their lives without human contact. However, the decision to get a puppy should not be discarded immediately; even smaller dogs tend to outlive larger dogs. Anyone considering getting a puppy should be prepared for a long-term commitment; a rescue dog can be shy but here’s all you need to know about it.
Choosing a Shelter
A portion of that money goes into the fund for other less fortunate pets who don’t yet have homes of their own. So not only have you saved a life, but you’ve also improved the lives of other displaced pets. Some offer vouchers for this campaign so you can have your pet spayed or neutered when they are old enough. Many shelters and rescues offer standard vaccinations such as rabies and DA2PP (as well as DHPP) to ensure your pet is protected from deadly, contagious germs.
Many adopted dogs are not housebroken, which means they are prone to accidents or disruptive behavior. If your dog is not yet housebroken, start by putting all food and snacks in your pet’s crate. You will find that your new intake will be increasingly convinced to crate train when fed inside. Crate training can help with house training if you let the animal out all the time. It may also feel safer kept in a crate when you are at school or work. Your pet will learn to recognize his box as his protected place.
Storing the Cage Nearby
One of the best ways to get a good night’s sleep is to not leave your new pet alone during the night. It helps reduce separation anxiety and will teach your new dog that today is bedtime. Keeping your new pet’s crate in your room can help him bond with you much faster. Even if you sleep through the night, this will give your pup eight hours of positive time with you. Your furry friend will feel much safer sleeping next to you.
It can be disastrous to house the animal along with your current pets once they are in your facility. Instead, choose a place where the dog can meet your pet. They can meet and play with each other. Excitement and combativeness can come from nervous energy. If you train your pet before bedtime, you may be able to convince them that it is time to sleep, not play.
Teaching the New Dog
Shelter and rescue dogs often arrive with “traits” that the previous owner couldn’t handle. Training your new dog with an experienced trainer who knows positive reinforcement approaches can help build a bond between you and your pet. The expert trainer can often address your dog’s problem behaviors or have your puppy examined by a canine behaviorist. Either way, training can enable you to own a pet. Give your new dog a chance to get used to you and his environment, as well as the idea of having a cat away.
Keep your cat in another room with food, water, a scratching post, and a litter box, and allow your pet to get used to them before introducing a cat. Give your pet a few weeks without a cat, and allow your cat to “watch” when your furry friend is in his crate, but don’t start opening it until everything is settled.