Adopting A New Dog? Take These Steps To Make The Transition Easier

It's just my opinion, but having a pet (or pets in my case) in your home is one of the greatest parts of life. Especially for those of us who don't have children or for those whose children have grown up and left the nest.

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Once your pet becomes acclimated to your family and your home, life with a new pet becomes so much more enjoyable. They are there for you during good and bad days. Well, dogs anyway, I wonder sometimes if cats really are sympathetic to your mood.

The challenge for most I imagine is those first few weeks when you bring your pet home for the first time. The Broome County Humane Society has some tips for making the transition for your dog from wherever they came from to their forever home.

For the first three days, the Humane Society recommends several items to make the transition easier, including giving your new dog some space, setting boundaries early, staying calm, giving clear direction, being patient, and staying positive. Sometimes with a new dog, and especially puppy challenges early on, can be frustrating.

After three weeks, The Broome County Humane Society states that your new dog will feel more settled and will begin to test boundaries. Give calm but clear feedback when your dog misbehaves.

And after three months, the BC Humane Society reports that your new dog will start to trust the new home, and should understand the new routines you taught. Continue training, and the results should be positive.

Your pet will give you unconditional love for as long as they are a part of your family, and that's what it's all about. For more information about adopting and how to care for a pet, visit the Broome County Humane Society website, or call 607-724-3709.

via Broome County Humane Society