Adopting a dog from a rescue center is a truly rewarding experience. Unfortunately, the number of animals in shelters has been growing sharply in recent years. Giving a four-legged friend the chance to enjoy a happy home life is an incredible thing to do.
After you have chosen a dog to adopt, you’ll probably be a bundle of excitement as you prepare to welcome your new furry friend to your home.
However, it’s vital to remember that dogs can feel a wide range of emotions just like people.
So, while you may be keen to settle straight into having fun and bonding with your dog, they may be less keen to start with.
One common feeling experienced by dogs who have been adopted into new homes is anxiety.
So, how can you help your new companion overcome this?
Thankfully, there are many ways that you can help your anxious dog. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Speak to the Shelter
Before you bring your dog home, it’s wise to do some research.
Take time to speak to the shelter to find out more about your dog.
Are there things they love, are there things they absolutely hate and leave them feeling scared?
Taking this information on-board will help you better prepare for your dog’s arrival.
This should make bringing your dog home a less overwhelming experience for you both.
Establish a Routine
Dogs, especially anxious ones, thrive on routine. So, getting into a routine pretty early on can bring comfort to your new canine friend.
This can include regular times to head outside for exercise in the yard, a routine for dog walks, and sticking with meals at the same time each day.
While a routine may not sound fun, it can provide your dog with familiarity and comfort in their new environment.
This should help them to feel settled in your home much sooner.
Consider Anxiety-Busting Treatments and Activities
Thankfully, there are many anxiety-busting treatments and activities you can try to help your dog feel calmer.
These include cbd soft chews, calming blankets and coats, and activities to keep your dog’s mind occupied.
Snuffle mats and lick mats can be especially helpful.
There’s no one-size-fits-all anxiety treamtent for dogs. The success of any treatment may vary from dog to dog.
This means you may need to try different things before you find one that best suits your pet.
For some dogs, all you need to do is give them plenty of exercise and provide enrichment activities to keep them occupied and the anxiety should naturally ease.
Don’t Rush Things
You may be tempted to get out and show off your new pet to your family and friends.
This is often a big mistake. Meeting lots of new people in those first days can scare your dog and set them back.
It prevents them getting used to their new routine and settling into it at their own pace.
Patience is key when bonding with your new pet.