Page 31 - Boardwalk_Issue 3_2022

LIFESTYLE

From separation anxiety and irrational fears to having a nervous

bladder, you never know what could be on the cards for a rescue dog
once you bring it home. Don’t be discouraged by uncertainty, take
on the journey and you might just find yourself with the greatest

companion you could hope for.

othing is more exciting than There are some other things to consider
meeting your dog for the first time as well, like general potty training and
Nand taking it to its new forever teething for puppies, as well as the fact
home, but there may be some surprises that most shelter dogs are mixed breeds,
in store if your new dog comes from a so it’s sometimes difficult to tell how big
shelter. your puppy will eventually get. A good
way to estimate the adult size is to look at
Animal shelters give abused or otherwise your puppy’s paws – bigger paws mean a
neglected animals a second chance at life bigger dog.
when they find new, loving homes. Many
dogs that end up at shelters have gone However, something that’s guaranteed
through traumatic experiences, or they with a rescue dog is that it will make
may have severe injuries or illnesses when the sweetest, most loving, and most
rescued. entertaining canine companion you could Our rescue pup was much anticipated;
ask for. No one should be discouraged we were so excited to finally bring her
Coming from an environment dominated from considering adoption but be home. Don’t be deceived by her sweet
by abuse could have long-lasting prepared for any surprises that may come face; she’s a ball of mischief one moment
effects on anyone, and it’s important your way. and a cuddle monster the next.
to remember that dogs can suffer from
depression, anxiety and even PTSD Most pet stores should be able to help
(post-traumatic stress disorder) related you with general items such as food,
to any traumatic experiences they may toys, harnesses, collars, and beds.
have had before being rescued. However, Puppies and senior dogs require special
there’s a lot we can do to help our new food, as their bodies are different from
dogs if we see them struggling. adult dogs. Puppies require more protein
and fat in their food, while senior dogs
For the first few days, they may just require less. If you’re not sure, you can
want to be left alone and that’s fine! always consult with the shelter or a vet
Remember, they don’t know where they as to what food would be best suited for
are or what’s going on, so just give them your dog.
some space and let them explore their
surrounding in their own time. Try to Sterilisation and immunisations are
feed them at the same time every day included at shelters, these are so
– this will help to build a routine – and important and are done to ensure the
make sure that fresh water is always health and safety of the animal as well as Once she settled into her new home, all
available. In fact, fresh water should everyone the animal comes into contact Koko wanted to do was snuggle in with
always be accessible, especially after with. us after a long day of digging up our
they have been on a car ride or they've garden.
been engaged in an exciting event. If you’re considering adoption, do some
research on nearby shelters. You can DOG SHELTERS NEARBY
Try to keep loud noise, commotion, and contact any local shelter and talk to them
guests to a minimum at first because this about what you might be looking for. • Wollies Animal Shelter - Pretoria
can be overstimulating and overwhelming You can also help out at any shelter by North: 079 916 4602
for an anxious dog. As exciting as having donating and volunteering, as shelters are
a new pet is, small children especially full of animals that could use all the help • Pretoria Dog Rescue:
083 767 6345
should try extra hard to give the new they can get. Who knows, you might just
pup some space, particularly if the dog is find your new canine best friend while • SPCA - Centurion: 012 664 5644
nervous or fearful – the last thing we want you’re at it. PET STORES NEARBY
is an accident to cause a child to develop a
life-long fear of dogs. Pets are long term investments and • Family Pet Centre - Centurion:
getting one should always be thought 012 764 1400
After an adjustment period of a few days, through and discussed, but it’s
your new dog should be able to settle in definitely worth it. Rescue dogs show • Absolute Pets Jean Crossing -
Centurion: 081 505 5014
just fine. If your pup is full of energy and an incredible amount of compassion
willing to play when it arrives at its new and love and bring so much joy. They • Petzone - Centurion:
home, make sure you have some toys really make the most wonderful 010 055 5031
available. companions.

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Boardwalk Meander Estate Issue 3 · 2022