Choosing to forgo purchasing a new puppy for a grown dog at a shelter or rescue agency is a commendable decision that new pet owners can feel good about making. But owners should realize that many of these pets have backgrounds that involve serious abuse and, as a result, may have a number of serious behavioral problems that will need to be addressed.
Steps to Take After Bringing Your New Pet Home
The most vital period for new pets is the first few weeks in a new home. This adjustment period is difficult for any animal-even healthy puppies-but it is particularly critical to provide gentle care for abused dogs during this time. Keep the following things in mind before you bring your new shelter dog home:
NEVER push the dog to do anything during this period. The dog may hide in a dark corner of the house for a long period after bringing it home. Just allow the dog to come out when it feels it is safe. Eventually it will and the bonding between you and your new pet will be all the stronger for waiting.
Keep the dog in the house--when you get a new pet it is difficult to resist the urge not to take it all over the place. After all, dog parks and lakes are great fun for both dog and owner. But this period should be as peaceful as possible. The dog should be exposed to very little outside stimuli besides your careful attention.
Keep the dog away from other dogs and people--when you first get a dog from a shelter, you do not know how it will react when exposed to other dogs and even friends.
If you are patient, an abused dog can become a very loving and grateful pet.
To find out more about caring for an abused dog, visit the website of the austinveterinarianclinics.com Austin Veterinarian Clinics today.
James Witherspoon
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