Post Adoption
How We Support You and Your Dog After Adoption
Our support doesn't end the day you take your dog home. This is the start of an exciting journey. As you set out together, there are bound to be a few bumps in the road. Whatever the challenge, our post-adoption support is here for you. The key to success is to give your pet time to acclimate. Please be sure to check out the below references for guidance on handling and caring for your new pet.
Our support doesn't end the day you take your dog home. This is the start of an exciting journey. As you set out together, there are bound to be a few bumps in the road. Whatever the challenge, our post-adoption support is here for you. The key to success is to give your pet time to acclimate. Please be sure to check out the below references for guidance on handling and caring for your new pet.
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,
|
After 3 weeks,
|
After 3 months,
|
Bringing Home Your New Dog
We feel it's important to hlep 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 leash and collar with you for your new dog.
- Secure the dog in the car by thethering 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.
- Children should refrain from showing their love to the dog in the form of hugging and kissing.
- Please 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 overtime. Respect your new dogs need for alone time as well as your resident dogs 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. 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 the most 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.
No Paws On The Ground
“NO PAWS ON THE GROUND” is for any puppy or dog who has not had a full schedule of vaccinations. Until two weeks after all THREE boosters have been administered, your puppy is at-risk. They should NOT be put down in the grass or on the ground in any public spaces where another dog may have been, including friend/neighbor’s house, 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” is for any puppy or dog who has not had a full schedule of vaccinations. Until two weeks after all THREE boosters have been administered, your puppy is at-risk. They should NOT be put down in the grass or on the ground in any public spaces where another dog may have been, including friend/neighbor’s house, 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
By understanding our dogs' individual needs and personalities, and introducing them with care, we create a foundation for lasting happiness, harmony, and unforgettable moments with our beloved canine companions.
By understanding our dogs' individual needs and personalities, and introducing them with care, we create a foundation for lasting happiness, harmony, and unforgettable moments with our beloved canine companions.
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 ensures a peaceful interaction. 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 provocation. 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 and ensuring a peaceful introduction.
- 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. Finally, supervise their interaction closely. If either dog shows stress or agitation, slow the introduction process, prioritizing their comfort and safety.
- 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. This simple precaution sets the state for a harmonious household.
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. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, capable of detecting scents from over three feet away, so there's no need to offer your hand for them to sniff. 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 respect boundaries and 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. For adult dogs, socialization should be slower and more cautious, with rewards and a safe retreat. Proper socialization reduces anxiety and aggression.
Start Training:
Training your dog is essential for ensuring children's safety. Teach basic commands like "sit," "down," and "stay" 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 paw holding, gently tugging of the tail, hugging, and ear checking, 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. Introduce the crate gradually, making it cozy and inviting. Establish clear rules, designating the crate 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, promoting harmony in your home.
Don't Force Anything:
Prioritize a safe and gradual approach. Avoid holding your dog while children pet it, as this can cause terror and aggression. Instead, 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. For adult dogs, socialization should be slower and more cautious, with rewards and a safe retreat. Proper socialization reduces anxiety and aggression.
Start Training:
Training your dog is essential for ensuring children's safety. Teach basic commands like "sit," "down," and "stay" 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 paw holding, gently tugging of the tail, hugging, and ear checking, 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. Introduce the crate gradually, making it cozy and inviting. Establish clear rules, designating the crate 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, promoting harmony in your home.
Don't Force Anything:
Prioritize a safe and gradual approach. Avoid holding your dog while children pet it, as this can cause terror and aggression. Instead, 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
Paws Rescue League ensures every adopted dog's microchip is registered, significantly increasing the likelihood of reunion by 50% if lost or stolen. With over 6 million pets going missing annually in the US, microchip registration is crucial for swift returns. By prioritizing registration, we provide peace of mind for pet owners and maximize the chances of a joyful reunion.
Paws Rescue League ensures every adopted dog's microchip is registered, significantly increasing the likelihood of reunion by 50% if lost or stolen. With over 6 million pets going missing annually in the US, microchip registration is crucial for swift returns. By prioritizing registration, we provide peace of mind for pet owners and maximize the chances of a joyful reunion.
After finalizing your adoption, Petstablished will email you a link to create an account and access your pet's vital information, including digital medical records, microchip number, and adoption documents. Follow the link, set a password, and log in to view and update your pet's details anytime, ensuring you're always informed and organized.
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 pets microchip will be registered and paid for by Paws Rescue League Inc. to ensure each dogs chip is registered.
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 pets microchip will be registered and paid for by Paws Rescue League Inc. to ensure each dogs chip is registered.
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 us on Facebook
