Adopting a dog is a big deal and needs your careful consideration. There are plenty of things you’ll need to think about before deciding on adopting. After you have decided to adopt, you’ll also have a couple of things to do to ensure the transition process goes smoothly for both of you.
In this post, we provide some handy tips that will help you on your journey from deciding to adopt, to welcome him home.
Think About Your Lifestyle
Before adopting a rescue dog, you’ll need to be sure that your lifestyles allow for it. Having a dog is a huge responsibility, and he’ll need your time, care and attention. You won’t be able to hop in the car and go away for long weekends at the drop of a hat anymore.
Consider Your Budget
You also need to keep in mind that there are a lot of costs involved in owning a pet. Not only do you have to feed and take care of him, but you will also have to budget for vet bills, which can get expensive if your dog ends up having a chronic illness.
Look at Temperament and Socialization
If you’ve seen that you are ready and financially stable enough to adopt, you’re ready to continue with the adoption process. Be sure to select a rescue with a good temperament and social skills as this will make the transitional phase a lot easier for both of you.
Buy the Necessities
Before you bring your new best friend home, you’ll have to ensure you’ve got everything he’s going to need. Stock up on bedding, toys, a food and water bowl as well as food. Be sure to check with the shelter what his diet was before buying just any type of food.
Make Some Time for Him
The transition phase might be difficult, as he needs to get used to his new surroundings, smells, and of course you. If possible, bring him home on a weekend when you have time off, or take some time off to ensure you get to bond with him.
Take Him to the Vet
You’ll also need to take your rescue pooch to the vet to ensure all his vitals are good and if he hasn’t been neutered before, to do so. If you adopt from a reliable shelter, they will provide you with the details on his vaccinations and health vitals.
Train Him Well
Whether you adopt a puppy or an older dog, you will have to train him. This is great for bonding and for laying down ground rules. He will understand what type of behavior is acceptable and what is not if you train him well from the get-go.
Shower Him with Love
And finally, your new doggo will need some love and affection, and plenty of it. Make sure he is comfortable in his new surroundings and that you give him enough time to start forming a deep and meaningful bond. He is after all your new bestie!
Owning a dog is a great experience, and you’d be amazed at all the benefits of being a pooch parent hold. Be sure to select your new best friend wisely and from a reputable shelter, and you should be good to go.
