Page 42 - Waterfall_Issue 7_2022
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Waterfall Lifestyle
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHEN ADOPTING
A RESCUE DOG
By Sybie Loftwing
From separation anxiety othing is more exciting than there's a lot we can do to help our
and irrational fears N meeting your dog for the new dogs if we see them struggling.
first time and taking it to
its new forever home, but
to having a nervous there may be some surprises in store For the first few days, they may just
want to be left alone and that's fine!
bladder, you never if your new dog comes from a shelter. Remember, they don't know where
they are or what's going on, so just give
know what could Animal shelters give abused or them some space and let them explore
otherwise neglected animals a surroundings in their own time. Try to
be on the cards for a second chance at life when they feed them at the same time every day
find new, loving homes. Many dogs – this will help to build a routine – and
rescue dog once you that end up at shelters have gone make sure that fresh water is always
through traumatic experiences, available. In fact, fresh water should
bring it home. Don’t or they may have severe injuries always be accessible, especially after
be discouraged by or illnesses when rescued. they've been on a car ride or they've
experienced any exciting event.
uncertainty, take on the Coming from an environment Try to keep loud noise, commotion,
dominated by abuse could have
journey and you might long-lasting effects on anyone, and and guests to a minimum at first
it's important to remember that dogs because this can be overstimulating
just find yourself with can suffer from depression, anxiety and overwhelming for an anxious
and even PTSD (post-traumatic stress dog. As exciting as having a new pet
the greatest companion disorder) related to any traumatic is, small children especially should
experiences they may have had try extra hard to give the new pup
you could hope for. before being rescued. However, some space, particularly if the dog is
40 Waterfall Issue 7 2022