The move to a new home can be stressful for any animal, but especially for a dog that was living in a shelter or that was mistreated by a previous owner. If you’re planning to welcome a new pet into your family, here are some tips to make the transition as smooth as possible.
Communicate with Family Members and Create a Plan
It’s important to get everyone on the same page before you bring a dog into your home. Dogs thrive on consistency and routine. Knowing when they will be fed, who will take them for walks, and when they will play in the backyard can make dogs feel safe and secure. Work out all of those things ahead of time so your family will be able to provide your new dog with the predictability that it needs to adjust.
Get Necessary Supplies
Your dog will need a collar with a tag, a leash, bowls, food, and toys. Find out what kind of food the dog has been eating and buy some of that. If you want to switch your new pet to a different type of food, do it gradually so the dog will have time to adjust and won’t get sick.
Many dogs like to sleep and rest in a crate. While it may seem unfair to keep a pet confined in an enclosed space, dogs’ instincts make them feel safe inside a crate because, to them, it feels like a den. Be sure that the crate you buy is large enough for your dog to sit up, lie down, and turn around comfortably.
Make the Transition as Peaceful as Possible
Arriving at a new home can make your dog feel confused, overwhelmed, and frightened, especially if it has been in a difficult or abusive situation in the past. It may be a good idea to introduce the dog to family members gradually, rather than all at once.
For example, you may want to bring the dog home while your kids are in school so your new pet will have a chance to get used to the adults in the family and explore the house while things are quiet. Then, when the kids come home, the dog will already be somewhat acclimated to the new environment and unfamiliar people.
If you currently have one or more pets, it may be wise to keep them away from your new dog at first. A pet that has been a member of the family for years may feel threatened by a newcomer and may behave aggressively. That can make the transition even harder on a new dog that’s already anxious.
Get Help Dealing with Problematic Wildlife
Dogs make excellent pets, and they can also be excellent workers. At Anderson Wildlife Control, we often take dogs along when we visit customers’ homes to handle squirrels, raccoons, groundhogs, and other wild animals that are causing damage to their properties. If you need help dealing with wildlife, contact us today.
