What To Expect When Adopting A Rescue Dog

There is no doubt that one of the most rewarding ways of bringing a new dog into your home is to adopt a rescue from a rehoming center. Not only will you get the benefit of a loyal and loving pet that will bring your family closer together and give you excuses to go for walks together, but you will also get the sense that you are doing something positive for a dog that needs the love and support that a caring home can provide. 

Often, we never really know what a rescue dog will have been through. Their previous owners may have been unable to cope with the dog, or a change in their lifestyle may have meant that they had to give up a much-beloved pet. Very often, there are some sad or upsetting circumstances that surround a dog being given up. Whatever the situation is, the dog needs the love that a new home will provide. 

It can be tough for a dog being up for adoption. They may not know what is going on or understand the situation fully. If you get a rescue dog, you need to be committed to providing a consistent routine for the dog so that they know where they stand. It can be a lot of work bringing a dog into your lives, but the joy that they will give to you will be worth it.

Finding The Right Dog To Adopt

Getting the right rescue dog is not as simple as finding a breed that you like. You should consider the dog’s temperament, how they are around any children or other pets that you have, how much walking they will need, and whether they can be left alone for any length of time. 

Ask lots of questions at the rehoming center and if there are any dogs that you are interested in, meet them a few times to see how well they take to you and your family. 

Given the fact that the dog may have been through a lot already, returning an adopted dog can be difficult for everyone if it doesn’t work out for any reason. The better prepared you are at the start, the less likely this will be to happen. 

Preparing Your Home

Bringing your new dog home will be exciting. Make sure you have a bed made up for them, and you have plenty of the best puppy food. Make them feel as welcome as possible, but don’t fuss over them or stress them out while they settle in. 

Allow them the opportunity to settle in slowly. Over the first few days, keep them at home, or just let them run in the garden. If they’re going out for a walk with you, keep it low profile and gentle. They need to adjust to life with you on their own terms, there may be quite a culture shock if they meet everyone in your life all at the same time.