Dog Adoption Tips

We know how exciting it is to bring a new family member into your home! Just as you would prep your home for a new child, we encourage you to approach adopting a pet in the same manner. The key to helping your new animal make a successful adjustment to your home is being prepared. It can take anywhere from two days to several weeks for you and your pet to adjust to each other so be patient and reach out if you have any questions or need additional resources. 

Gather supplies 

Don’t forget to Stock Up on the supplies you need to bring your pet home at the time of adoption! Our retail center is open to adopters and members of the public to purchase the supplies they need for their furry family members. All dogs are required to leave with a leash and collar on.  

Establish house rules 

Plan ahead the consistent dog-care regimen among household members.  

• Who will regularly feed your dog?  
• Will you allow them on furniture? How will those boundaries be established?  
• Where will they sleep at night?   
• Will they be crated when owners are not at home?  
• Are there any rooms/spaces in the home that are off-limits?  

The First Weeks 

Give them a crate 

Dogs instinctively like to den, a crate can serve as their own private space. Your dog’s crate should be large enough to allow your dog to stand up, turn around, and sit comfortably in a normal posture. Make it comfy by providing bedding and toys. In addition, place your dog’s food bowl immediately inside the crate with the crate door open during feeding time. This will create a positive association with the crate.  

Crates should always be a positive and safe space. Do not use the crate as a punishment and only crate your dog when it is necessary. Extensive amounts of time spent in a crate can ultimately cause anxiety and stress which should be avoided.  

Crates are a vital tool in training your pet. If a crate isn’t an option, consider some sort of confinement to a dog-proofed part of your home, sectioned off with a dog/baby gate. 

Use training to create a happy adoption 

Dogs need order, consistency, and patience. Stay calm. Reward them with praise when they do well. Positive reinforcement creates lasting success. Sign up for our First Class Canine Training classes, and you’ll learn what a joy it is to have a well-trained dog. 

Patience is key 

Finally, remember to temper your expectations. Life with you is a different experience for your new companion, so give them time to adjust. You’ll soon find out that you’ve made a friend for life. No one will ever greet you with as much enthusiasm or provide you with as much unqualified love and loyalty as your dog will. Be patient, and you will be amply rewarded.