Crating your new dog is a good way to prevent accidents in the home.
More than 5 million pets find their way into shelters each year, and 60 percent of dogs are euthanized, according to the ASPCA. Bringing a needy shelter dog into your life is one way to reduce the population of homeless pets. When you adopt a dog, there is an adjustment period for both you and the dog, but if you're prepared and anticipate the dog's needs, you can make the transition go smoothly.
Meeting Your New Dog
The dog doesn't know what to expect and may be traumatized from being in the shelter or abandoned by previous owners. When meeting a strange dog for the first time, speak in a calm voice and let the dog smell the back of your hand before you pet her. Take the dog for a walk around the shelter and let her get familiar with you. After you've adopted her, place her in the car and restrain her in either a crate or a harness that attaches to a seat belt. While it may seem like an easy feat to put the dog into the car and drive away, remember that the shelter is a stressful place and that your new dog may suffer from car sickness or have a fear of riding in cars. Bring along a sheet for the seat and towels in case the dog soils herself or vomits in the car.
Checklist
Your newly adopted dog may be sent home with a disposable collar or leash, but you must provide a sturdier, permanent collar and leash for use at home. If your dog is a large breed, choose a strong leash made of leather or nylon. Bring these along to the shelter at the time of adoption. Don't forget to order a name tag. Bowls for food and water are a necessity, and the dog will also appreciate her own comfortable bed. Both dogs and puppies like toys; have plenty on hand to entertain them. Make sure there are no small parts that can be chewed off and swallowed. Keep healthy treats in the house to reward your dog for good behavior.
Arriving Home
It's best to pick up the dog on a weekend or some other time when you can stay home with her for a few days to help her get adjusted. Ideally, two people should go to pick up the dog in case the dog is skittish or scared in the car. When you bring a dog into your home for the first time, keep a careful watch on her at all times, or crate or confine the dog to a small area. Introduce the dog to her new surroundings but don't let children fuss or play with the dog too much; it may be confused or scared. Give the dog the opportunity to relieve herself and show her where you expect her to potty. If the dog is not housebroken, you should use the first few minutes at home to start potty training.
Care and Feeding
Have your new dog checked over by the vet in the first week after bringing her home. If your dog hasn't been fully vaccinated, she will need her shots to prevent illness and protect against rabies. If you have other pets at home, make sure they are current on their shots and healthy before you introduce your new dog. Many shelters spay or neuter dogs before they are sent home; if your dog has not been altered, it's an important first step in dog ownership. Your dog will need a quality dog food that is primarily meat with little fillers, byproducts or additives. Fresh, clean water should be left out for her at all times. When deciding where to put the bowls, choose a spot that is waterproof and out of the way.
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