Rescue Dogs and Time

The hardest thing to give a new dog is time. Making the changes and choices that set the dog up to successfully become a part of your home.

There is dog proofing time. Identifying where a dog can get out. A door that is usually left open. A fence too low. A space just the right size for a scared animal to squeeze through and disappear. A person that is used to going in and out the door and leaving it open every time. Consider the adjustments needed so you do not have to be saying “no” constantly during the first few days. Socks, shoes, children’s toys, and small electronics should always be away from the dog's reach. Trash cans should be put away during the first few days then only introduced with supervision.

There is household education time. All in the household must accept that every one must do their part in keeping your dog safe, and yourselves and your property undamaged. This includes closing doors, picking up items the dog should not have, and insisting that visitors do not put your dog in danger. Make rules. Ask everybody that walks in your house to respect you by following your safety rules. You must have a plan for when a person has to come inside your house and you know that that person will not follow your safety rules.

There is the time needed for a dog to get used to his new life. Once your new dog arrives he may choose a spot where he can hide, watch, and listen. It will be easier if you have that space ready. Some blankets in a quiet corner or a dog crate with no door. Your dog will need quiet slow safe time with you, only you, and the people who live in your house. Visitors will be disruptions to the dog figuring out how things work in his new home.

Always keep in mind that your new dog had a life before he came to your home. You do not know the things that hurt him, that scared him, that taught him survival traits will not go away in a week or a month. Once your dog has his safe space that is where you will give him food and water. Everyone must respect that space. Do not force him out of that space unless it is really necessary. To keep people and pets safe everyone in your house must accept that your dog gets to eat in peace.

Give your self time to control the changes in the life of your household so that everybody will grow older together peacefully.