Page 32 - FWG_Issue 6_2022

Lifestyle

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN

ADOPTING A RESCUE DOG

B Y S YBIE L OFTWING

From separation anxiety and anyone, and it's important to remember that just fine. If your pup is full of energy and
dogs can suffer from depression, anxiety and
willing to play when it arrives at its new
irrational fears to having a even PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) home, make sure you have some toys
nervous bladder, you never know related to any traumatic experiences available.
they may have had before being rescued.
what could be on the cards for However, there's a lot we can do to help our There are some other things to consider
a rescue dog once you bring it new dogs if we see them struggling. as well, like general potty training and
teething for puppies, as well as the fact
home. Don’t be discouraged by For the first few days, they may just want that most shelter dogs are mixed breeds,
uncertainty, take on the journey to be left alone and that's fine! Remember, so it's sometimes difficult to tell how big
your puppy will eventually get. A good
they don't know where they are or what's
and you might just find yourself going on, so just give them some space and way to estimate the adult size is to look at
with the greatest companion you let them explore their surrounding in their your puppy's paws – bigger paws mean a
bigger dog.
own time. Try to feed them at the same time
could hope for. every day – this will help to build a routine
– and make sure that fresh water is always However, something that's guaranteed
othing is more exciting than available. In fact, fresh water should always with a rescue dog is that it will make
meeting your dog for the first time be accessible, especially after they've been the sweetest, most loving, and most
and taking it to its new forever on a car ride or they've experienced any entertaining canine companion you could
Nhome, but there may be some exciting event. ask for. No one should be discouraged from
surprises in store if your new dog comes considering adoption but be prepared for
from a shelter. Try to keep loud noise, commotion, and any surprises that may come your way.
guests to a minimum at first because this can
Animal shelters give abused or otherwise be overstimulating and overwhelming for Most pet stores should be able to help
neglected animals a second chance at life an anxious dog. As exciting as having a new you with general items such as food, toys,
when they find new, loving homes. Many pet is, small children especially should try harnesses, collars, and beds. Puppies and
dogs that end up at shelters have gone extra hard to give the new pup some space, senior dogs require special food as their
through traumatic experiences, or they particularly if the dog is nervous or fearful – bodies are different from adult dogs.
may have severe injuries or illnesses when the last thing we want is an accident to cause Puppies require more protein and fat in
rescued. a child to develop a life-long fear of dogs. their food, while senior dogs require less.
If you’re not sure, you can always consult
Coming from an environment dominated After an adjustment period of a few days, with the shelter or a vet as to what food
by abuse could have long-lasting effects on your new dog should be able to settle in would be best suited for your dog.

Fourways Gardens • 30 • July 2022