Page 18 - IFV_Issue 7_2022

Lifestyle

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN

ADOPTING A RESCUE DOG

BY SYBIE LOFTWING

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 and even PTSD (post-traumatic stress experienced any exciting event.
meeting your dog for the first disorder) related to any traumatic Try to keep loud noise, commotion,
Ntime and taking it to its new experiences they may have had before and guests to a minimum at first
forever home, but there may be some being rescued. However, there's a lot we because this can be overstimulating
surprises in store if your new dog comes can do to help our new dogs if we see and overwhelming for an anxious
from a shelter. them struggling. dog. As exciting as having a new pet
Animal shelters give abused or For the first few days, they may just is, small children especially should try
otherwise neglected animals a second want to be left alone and that's fine! extra hard to give the new pup some
chance at life when they find new, Remember, they don't know where space, particularly if the dog is nervous
loving homes. Many dogs that end up they are or what's going on, so just give or fearful – the last thing we want is an
at shelters have gone through traumatic them some space and let them explore accident to cause a child to develop a
experiences, or they may have severe surroundings in their own time. Try to life-long fear of dogs.
injuries or illnesses when rescued. feed them at the same time every day After an adjustment period of a few
Coming from an environment – this will help to build a routine – and days, your new dog should be able
dominated by abuse could have long- make sure that fresh water is always to settle in just fine. If your pup is full
lasting effects on anyone, and it's available. In fact, fresh water should of energy and willing to play when it
important to remember that dogs always be accessible, especially after arrives at its new home, make sure you
can suffer from depression, anxiety they've been on a car ride or they've have some toys available.

16 • Issue 7 2022 • The Villager