If you’re thinking of adding a dog to your family, consider adopting your new best friend from an animal shelter or humane society. Not only will you feel good about helping a homeless pet, but you’ll get a great companion. Many great dogs end up in shelters due to life circumstances that have befallen their original owners, and the staff at these organizations carefully screen the animals for good health and good temperament. Also, some shelter animals have had the benefit of being trained to develop good manners while waiting for a new home.
You can find almost any age, size, and breed of dog in an animal shelter. From entire litters of puppies to young dogs and domesticated senior dogs as well.
When a new dog arrives, the shelter staff carefully evaluates it for physical and behavioral soundness. They take note of quirks and work with specialists to eliminate negative behaviors. Most shelters even have adoption counselors who interview prospective adopters to understand their needs and lifestyle so they can make the perfect match.
Bringing home your newly adopted dog is exciting for you, but it can be a bit overwhelming for her. Keep him on a leash as she leads him from room to room, giving him plenty of opportunities to sniff. It’s a good idea to make her first stop on this tour a stop at the dog toilet area. The excitement of a car ride and getting to a new place can make you want to empty your bowels or bladder.
It is important to understand that dogs are creatures of habit. So the sooner you establish a firm routine, the more comfortable your new dog will be in his new home. Always feed him in the same place and at about the same time each morning. You will find that you grow up to anticipate “what comes next.” For example, if you always feed him after you bring the newspaper, you’ll notice that he gets very excited when you open the door to go out. Dogs pick up on it quickly.