Puppy Adopting 101: Everything You Need To Know
From getting your home puppy-proof to making sure you have all the right supplies, pet adoption takes a little bit of thoughtful planning, especially if you’re introducing a small, vulnerable puppy into your homes. So, if you’re looking for a new furry family member to brighten up your life and your home, consider these steps to help you welcome a new pup without unnecessary stress.
First things first – do the research
Many animal enthusiasts rush into the first adoption center they can find, before knowing what they want and, most importantly, if they are ready to accept such responsibility.
There’s an abundance of resources online to help you understand which breed will best suit your daily habits, personality, and lifestyle. Pups grow older, and you’ll need to know whether you’ll be able to keep a large dog, groom the thick coat, or have someone run to the vet when there’s a medical emergency.
On top of that, preparation also includes financial responsibility. You’ll need to understand the costs of adoption itself, vaccination, regular vet checkups, yearly food expenses, and finally, to be prepared for any emergencies. It may seem far fetched with a small cute puppy on your hands, but in the long run, keeping a dog is an obligation to stick to.
Once you’re at the shelter, do your part
Don’t be fooled by the 2-minute adoption scenes in movies, as there’s more to only pointing at a cute dog and taking it home the very next minute. There are paperwork and specific requirements you need to fulfill to be eligible for becoming an animal caregiver.
In order to be sure you have the capacity and means to adopt a dog, animal shelters will provide you with a standard questionnaire and even a background check, to get the whole picture. Things you need to consider are whether you live in a flat or you’re a house owner for insurance covers, or if you need a vet reference if you previously owned a dog. You may even need to have an interview with the shelter representative. Finally, there’s standard paperwork that includes paying a small fee.
The good thing is rescues and adoption centers come with a clean bill of health for the animals, so you won’t have to worry about the initial shots, microchip tagging, etc. Each rescue center or a shelter operates differently, so ask around about the requirements and fees once you find the facility you’d like to work with.
Make sure your house is puppy-proof
Pre-puppy preparation is crucial to ensure your little friend acclimates to the new environment as quickly and efficiently as possible.
This includes removing all the potential traps and accident causers, like dangerous holes, very sharp edges, poisonous chemicals, small objects that can be swallowed, and so on. These little chewing menaces will seek for something to munch on until they grow teeth, so make sure to store away or protect anything valuable they could get their paws on. Since they’re changing their home, puppies can experience separation anxiety, which can result in more frequent wet accidents. There are dog pads and even diapers to help you get through the first weeks of adjusting, which are also very helpful for potty training in the future.
Furthermore, the prospective owners should be one step ahead of the adoption time and get all the needed supplies beforehand. Crates, things you’d put in a crate like toys, blankets, bowls, grooming supplies, as well as food, will all help the puppy find its place in the new environment more effortlessly.
Photo by Andrew Schultz on Unsplash
Be prepared for a load of cuteness
First-time animal shelter visitors are usually not prepared for the avalanche of sad eyes, fluffiness, and all the whimpering and whining. You may find yourself overwhelmed and confused about what you want.
Apart from the required paperwork, many adoption shelters offer images of animals on their websites, so you can decide more sensibly and cool-headedly on which puppy you are actually looking for.
Once the puppy is home, practice patience and acceptance
For the adoption to be truly successful, this part is probably the most deciding. Compared to adult dogs, puppies are more sensitive and susceptible to anxiety and depression due to the stress they can experience when changing homes.
You may find the whole process stressful and tiring, but keep in mind that it’s your job as the dog’s new parent to diminish the shock and provide security.
The best way to help your pooch is to devote time and energy in those crucial few weeks of accomodating. Preferably, the entire family should be involved, as the dog will learn to be equally responsive to all of the household members.
Watch your puppy, play with it, and build the bond necessary to utilize the relationship you’ll create. The more love and affection you give to your puppy, the more attached and devoted it will become once it’s grown.
We are currently operating with limited appointments for foster and adoption. To apply to volunteer please follow this link. Or, click here to view our wonderful animals up for adoption, or click here to donate. Thank you for your continued support.