The first thing to remember is that a pet, especially a dog, is a very sensitive and dependent creature. After being traumatized by abandonment and placed in a shelter that can only meet its most basic needs, an adopted pet needs time, patience, and understanding. Given that, an adopted dog can be, as one family recently wrote us, the "best pet of all time." Gratitude and loyalty from a dog who just needs time is the very best thanks!
The second thing to remember is that a shelter is not like a home. The animals here are confined, their energy is pent-up, and they have little opportunity to let their personalities shine. The only thing they have is their runs and limited contact with our kind staff. So, you can assume that they will change once you've brought them home.
Third, scary as it might sound, while many of our dogs are not "bad," you should assume that the pet you choose may very well be destructive, noisy, and perhaps not even housebroken. Therefore, it's a good idea to set aside a small area of the house (not the basement or the garage) where they can see the action, where they can slowly adjust to the activity and personalities around them. The kitchen or a mudroom is great.
At the same time, take as much time as you can
to be with the dog, until you feel you know the dog and what he or she will do
when frightened, bored, happy and excited. As the dog gets to know you,
and you get to know the dog, you will be the one to determine whether to let
the dog have run of the house, or whether it's time for friends and family to
come and meet your new pet. The most important thing is to take time to be with the dog, to walk him or her, to play, to establish a bond that's based on trust.Once that's established, you have it made. But remember, it is never safe to let a dog loose to run unless the area is fenced!
A great option, if you have the time, after the dog is in the home long enough to identify this new place as home, is to enroll him or her in obedience classes. Obedience training does amazing things for both dogs and dog owners, and it can make the difference between a successful adoption and a failure (the return of the dog). Make a few calls to kennels or local veterinarians to find out where obedience classes are taking place in your area.
You have a 30-day trial period with you new pet; follow these simple guidelines and make the most of it. How great it would be if you and your dog made a friend for life!
