Post Adoption
Just adopted a new dog? Congratulations! Remember: the key to success is to give your dog time to acclimate to their new home and routine. Below are some references for guidance on handling and caring for your new pooch.
The 3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Month Rule of Adopting a Rescue Dog
The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline, every dog is unique and will adjust differently. Give your dog space and allow them to go at their own pace.
The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline, every dog is unique and will adjust differently. Give your dog space and allow them to go at their own pace.
In the first 3 days,
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After 3 weeks,
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After 3 months,
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Bringing Home Your New Dog
We feel it's important to help you recognize the stress involved for every dog when they get adopted. As humans, we love our new dogs immediately, but, please remember your new dog doesn't really know you yet or have reason to trust you. Below are some of the key things we've learned over the years that we feel are important for every new adopter to remember:
- Bring a properly fitting collar and leash with you to transport your new dog home (we highly encourage using a slip lead or martingale collar/leash to secure the dog safely - most dogs who go missing get loose from their owners in the first 2 weeks after adoption!)
- Secure the dog in the car by tethering the leash or with a crate.
- Purchase a crate. It should be large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around freely, but not too much excess space.
- Purchase some dog toys and treats (ask the foster for some ideas).
- Check with the foster and/or adoption coordinator to find out what your new dog has been eating. You should plan to transition them slowly to their new food. This helps prevent stomach upset.
- Keep visitors to a minimum until your dog has a chance to bond with you and your immediate family.
- Keep outings with your new dog to a minimum while you get to know them over a few weeks and can build a trusting relationship.
- Feed your new dog separately from resident dogs and keep treats/bones/etc. to a minimum while everyone establishes boundaries.
- Supervise children with your dog and remind them to respect your dog's boundaries (avoid climbing on, hugging, putting their face up to the dog's face, grabbing ears or tail, taking away bones or toys, etc.)
- Keep your dog under your supervision while outdoors (even for potty breaks) for a few weeks while they learn about their new enviornment.
- Remember the best doggie friendships are built over time. Respect your new dog's need for alone time as well as your resident dog's need for alone time. Take walks together and engage in play, but don't force them to be together 24/7 right off the bat.
- Consider the use of a crate when leaving your new dog unattended. This keeps your dog and your possessions safe! If your dog is not already crate trained, start with short periods of time (20 minutes or so) and work your way up to longer stretches.
- Keep your new dog secured in your vehicle when you are out and about for the first few weeks via a leash. Door darting out of a car is a common way a newly adopted dog is lost following adoption.
- Avoid dog parks. If you are a dog park type of person, consider avoiding them for at least a month or two after adopting your dog until you really get to know their personality and how they interact with other dogs.
No Paws On The Ground
“NO PAWS ON THE GROUND” protocol applies to all puppies who have not yet been fully vaccinated. Your puppy does not have full immunity until two weeks after their last vaccine. They should NOT be put down in the grass or on the ground in any public space where another unknown dog may have been, including the vet, pet stores, and dog parks. They should only touch the ground inside your house and your back yard. Their immature immune system makes them susceptible to deadly, highly contagious viruses such as Parvo, Distemper, Parainfluenza, Adenovirus, etc.
“NO PAWS ON THE GROUND” protocol applies to all puppies who have not yet been fully vaccinated. Your puppy does not have full immunity until two weeks after their last vaccine. They should NOT be put down in the grass or on the ground in any public space where another unknown dog may have been, including the vet, pet stores, and dog parks. They should only touch the ground inside your house and your back yard. Their immature immune system makes them susceptible to deadly, highly contagious viruses such as Parvo, Distemper, Parainfluenza, Adenovirus, etc.
How To Properly Introduce Two Dogs
Allow time for your new dog to decompress in a quiet space before introducing them to your other dog(s). There’s no need to rush introductions – let them adjust to their new surroundings, reduce stress and anxiety, and feel secure. Giving your new dog space to decompress sets the stage for a calm and successful introduction to your resident dog(s). Once they’ve settled, you can begin controlled, outside introductions on leashes.
Introduce on neutral territory
Introduce on neutral territory
- When introducing dogs, a gradual and controlled approach is always best. Begin by walking them separately on leashes in a neutral outdoor area, using high-value treats for rewards. Keep a safe distance initially, allowing dogs to become familiar without getting too close. Positively reinforce calm behavior with treats and praise. Gradually decrease the distance, monitoring behavior and adjusting as needed. For puppy introductions, use your yard or home with a gate/fence barrier, following the “No Paws on the Ground” rule. Gradually introduce the puppy, supervising interactions closely.
- Carefully monitor their body language for defensive or wary signs like raised hackles, bared teeth, growling, stiff-legged gait or prolonged stares. If you notice any of these, calmly intervene and redirect their attention. If they seem relaxed, gradually decrease the distance and reward calm behavior with treats, reinforcing positive interactions.
- Patience is paramount. Allow them to set the pace, and don't force interactions. Some dogs may quickly become playmates, while others require more time to feel comfortable. Take it slow, respecting their boundaries, and prioritize gradual progression.
- Once dogs are comfortable viewing each other up close, progress to walking them together, starting with one behind the other, then switching. If they remain calm, allow side-by-side walking. Continue to supervise their interaction closely. If either dog shows stress or agitation, slow the introduction process, prioritizing their comfort and safety.
- Once your new dog and resident dog(s) are comfortable enough to be inside the house together, it's a good idea to keep their leashes on for quick corrections/separation if needed.
- When introducing a new dog to your household, always feed them separately from other pets, at least initially. This helps prevent food-related aggression, resource competition, and stress. Your new dog is adjusting to a new environment, people, and pets, and may feel protective of their food. Feeding separately reduces mealtime stress and anxiety, creates a safe eating space, and fosters positive associations with mealtime. Consider feeding in a quiet area until your new dog becomes comfortable with their surroundings.
How To Properly Introduce Your Dog And Small Children
When introducing children to your new dog, it's essential to prioritize caution and calmness. Excitement can run high, but sudden movements and loud noises can frighten your new pet. Begin by standing still, allowing your dog to become familiar with your scent and the presence of children. After a few moments, kneel down to your dog's level, offering treats and speaking calmly. Encourage children to follow your example, moving gently and avoiding sudden movements. It's crucial to let your dog approach you and the children, rather than forcing interaction. When your dog does approach, allow them to sniff your hand before petting. During this introduction, remind children to be gentle and respect the dog's boundaries (i.e. avoid hugging the dog's neck or crowding them).
Socialize Your Dog
Socializing your dog is vital, especially between 8-16 weeks old, to foster lifelong comfort and confidence. Introduce puppies to diverse people, situations, and children in a positive, gentle manner. Proper socialization as puppies reduces the likelihood of anxiety and aggression as adults. For adult dogs, socialization should be slower and more cautious, with rewards and a safe retreat.
Start Training
Training your dog is essential for ensuring children's safety. Teach basic commands like "sit," "down," "stay", and "place" to redirect impulsive behaviors and encourage calm interactions. Consider professional training options, such as group classes or private sessions, to help your dog become well-behaved and responsive.
Practice Handling Exercises
Prepare your dog for physical affection and handling. Gently expose your dog to touching various parts of its body (paws, ears, tail, etc.), rewarding calm behavior with praise and treats. Monitor for signs of fear or anxiety, and prioritize keeping children at a distance if necessary.
Crate Train Your Dog
Crate training provides your dog a secure retreat, reducing stress and anxiety around children. If your dog is not already crate trained, introduce the crate gradually, making it cozy and inviting. Establish clear rules, designating the crate as off-limits to kids. Supervise interactions and respect crate time. This safe space allows your dog to recharge, feel secure and interact on its own terms.
Don't Force Anything
Prioritize a safe and gradual approach. Allow your dog to become comfortable around kids at its own pace. Use positive reinforcement with praise, treats, and attention when your dog behaves calmly, teaching it that kids' presence means good experiences.
Socialize Your Dog
Socializing your dog is vital, especially between 8-16 weeks old, to foster lifelong comfort and confidence. Introduce puppies to diverse people, situations, and children in a positive, gentle manner. Proper socialization as puppies reduces the likelihood of anxiety and aggression as adults. For adult dogs, socialization should be slower and more cautious, with rewards and a safe retreat.
Start Training
Training your dog is essential for ensuring children's safety. Teach basic commands like "sit," "down," "stay", and "place" to redirect impulsive behaviors and encourage calm interactions. Consider professional training options, such as group classes or private sessions, to help your dog become well-behaved and responsive.
Practice Handling Exercises
Prepare your dog for physical affection and handling. Gently expose your dog to touching various parts of its body (paws, ears, tail, etc.), rewarding calm behavior with praise and treats. Monitor for signs of fear or anxiety, and prioritize keeping children at a distance if necessary.
Crate Train Your Dog
Crate training provides your dog a secure retreat, reducing stress and anxiety around children. If your dog is not already crate trained, introduce the crate gradually, making it cozy and inviting. Establish clear rules, designating the crate as off-limits to kids. Supervise interactions and respect crate time. This safe space allows your dog to recharge, feel secure and interact on its own terms.
Don't Force Anything
Prioritize a safe and gradual approach. Allow your dog to become comfortable around kids at its own pace. Use positive reinforcement with praise, treats, and attention when your dog behaves calmly, teaching it that kids' presence means good experiences.
Microchip Information
Our dogs are microchipped prior to adoption and your adoption fee includes the microchip registration. Microchipping pets increases the likelihood of reunion by 50% if lost or stolen.
Our dogs are microchipped prior to adoption and your adoption fee includes the microchip registration. Microchipping pets increases the likelihood of reunion by 50% if lost or stolen.
After finalizing your adoption, Petstablished will email you a link to create an account and access your pet's vital information, including microchip number and adoption documents. Follow the link, set a password, and log in to view and update your pet's details anytime.
Viewing Microchip Info & Creating Your Account:
Step 1: In the email you receive from Petstablished, click Access My Pet's Information and create a password.
Step 2: Once in your account, click on Your Pets (located on the left hand side of the page).
Step 3: Scroll to the pet you adopted, and click the Register Microchip button. Your new pet's microchip will be registered and paid for by Paws Rescue League Inc.
Step 4: Once you have made an account you can input all your information, including the microchip number, breed of pet (if known), an alternate contact, and other details about your pet. This information will help if your pet is ever lost.
Viewing Microchip Info & Creating Your Account:
Step 1: In the email you receive from Petstablished, click Access My Pet's Information and create a password.
Step 2: Once in your account, click on Your Pets (located on the left hand side of the page).
Step 3: Scroll to the pet you adopted, and click the Register Microchip button. Your new pet's microchip will be registered and paid for by Paws Rescue League Inc.
Step 4: Once you have made an account you can input all your information, including the microchip number, breed of pet (if known), an alternate contact, and other details about your pet. This information will help if your pet is ever lost.
Join our Adopter Alumni Facebook Group
We love when our adopters stay in touch! Connect with other adopters and share updates on your adopted PRL pup! Some of our adopters have even arranged playdates with littermates or other PRL dogs in their area.
