How To Adjust Your Shelter Pet To Home Life

Pet Adoption

Adopting A Pet - Shelter Dog - Image

Are you planning to adopt a furry friend in the near future? Perhaps you’ve recently adopted and welcomed your new companion into your family. Either way, bringing your best friend home can pose a few lifestyle changes for both you and your pet that you should be aware of. Help your shelter dog comfortably adjust to their new home with these tips.   

What are tips to help my shelter pet adjust?

Something to be aware of is that adult shelter dogs, as opposed to puppies, can be much easier to train. Although puppies can come with less baggage, shelter dogs may have histories before they come to you, and some of their stories may not be positive. They may have been isolated, neglected or, in some cases, physically abused. Common obstacles dog owners experience are: 

  • Lack of socialization with other animals and/or people
  • Health problems that may have developed from malnutrition or life as a stray 
  • Behavioral issues like barking, growling, biting, potty training regression, separation anxiety and eating problems

What things should I do before I bring my shelter dog home?

What to buy for a new dog.

If you’re adopting a shelter dog, you, of course, already have a love for dogs and a big heart, but you’ll need some equipment if you want to help your pet successfully transition from shelter to home. Some dogs will have their own unique set of needs, but here’s a basic checklist of items to have on hand before welcoming your pet into their new home. 

  • Collar
  • I.D. tags
  • Leash
  • Harness
  • Dog beds
  • Crate
  • Baby gate(s)
  • Blankets
  • Old towels
  • Food and water bowls
  • Toys
  • Treats
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Veterinarian-recommended food
  • A reliable veterinarian 

Always be sure to check with the shelter you’re adopting from to find out if your dog will require additional equipment.

How should I introduce my shelter dog into my home?

Bringing your shelter dog home can be one of the happiest days of your life. You will likely be excited and want to kick off your lives together with full speed ahead. To avoid overwhelm, take the necessary steps to help your pet settle in comfortably. 

  • Don’t bring your shelter dog around the other pets too soon. Your shelter dog is surely happy to be headed home with you, but your new best friend has a lot of changes to deal with. Introducing them to other pets too fast can be overwhelming. Take one step at a time, and let them get used to their surroundings first. If you have another pet at home already, most shelters will require a meet-and-greet with both pets to ensure they have positive chemistry before the adoption. If this is your case, introduce your new dog to your other pet slowly when you bring them home, and always watch them when they interact over the first few weeks to months.
  • Properly train your dog. Many shelter dogs have had little training or have forgotten what they used to know during their time in the shelter environment. Starting the training process right away will help them start off on a good paw, especially when it comes to obedience and potty training. 
  • Respect your shelter dog’s limitations. As you learn to understand your shelter dog’s past and possible emotional baggage, it’s important to respect their boundaries and help others (both in your family and strangers) do the same. If your pet is not friendly with strangers, you may invest in a shirt that says, “Don’t pet me” to wear on walks or outings where you’ll come into contact with new people.   
  • Don’t expect perfection from day one. Like most things in life, your shelter pet will take time to adjust to their new environment. They may have sleepless nights or potty training-related accidents. You may have to take extra time to socialize your pet or get them used to walking well on a leash. Knowing that these challenges will inevitably arise, you can learn to anticipate them and overcome common obstacles. 

Whether your pet has been around a while or is a new addition to your household, we want to make sure that you and your pet are living your best lives. Since 1988, we have been the poop scooping professionals. We will do the dirty work for you, so you can focus on welcoming your shelter dog into their new home. 

 

Senior Pet Adoption

Pet Adoption

Senior dog and cat on couch


Are you considering pet adoption but unsure whether to choose a puppy or kitten? Think about the incredible advantages of adopting a senior pet! Senior pets—typically defined as animals over the age of seven—often have so much love to give. They not only enrich your life but also deserve a second chance at happiness. Let’s explore the numerous benefits of adopting a senior pet for both the pet and the owner.

Benefits for the Owner

  • Calm Companionship: One of the primary advantages of adopting a senior pet is their tranquil demeanor. Older animals are generally more relaxed than their younger counterparts, making them ideal companions for families or individuals seeking a peaceful home environment.
  • Known Temperament: Senior pets have well-established personalities. This allows potential adopters to match their lifestyle with a pet that has a temperament suited for their home. Whether you need a lap dog or a quiet cat, you can find a senior pet that fits perfectly.
  • Less Destructive Behavior: Senior pets have already gone through the teething and chewing phases, meaning they are less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. They are often already house-trained, which can save you time and effort in your pet parenting journey.
  • Deep Emotional Bonds: Many senior pets have experienced abandonment or loss, which can lead to an intense sense of gratitude toward their new owners. Adopting a senior pet allows you to form a profound emotional connection as they show appreciation for your love and care.
  • Easier to Train: Contrary to popular belief, older pets can learn new tricks and commands! Senior pets tend to be more focused and eager to please, making training sessions a rewarding experience. They adapt well to new routines, which can make life easier for their owners.
  • Shorter Commitment: If you’re not ready for the long-term commitment of raising a puppy or kitten, adopting a senior pet offers a shorter commitment while still providing a loving relationship. You can enjoy the companionship without the uncertainty of how long they will be with you.
  • Reduced Adoption Fees: Many shelters offer lower adoption fees for senior pets, making it a more affordable option for potential pet owners. Some rescue organizations even provide special programs for those who choose to adopt older animals, further incentivizing the decision.

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Benefits for the Pet

  • A Second Chance at Life: Senior pets are often overlooked in shelters, facing the risk of euthanasia. By choosing to adopt a senior pet, you provide them with a new lease on life, filled with love, care, and comfort.
  • Comfort and Security: Many senior pets have had turbulent lives and yearn for a stable environment. By welcoming a senior pet into your home, you offer them the security they need to thrive and enjoy their golden years.
  • Improved Quality of Life: With proper medical care, a loving environment, and a balanced diet, senior pets can experience significant improvements in their health and happiness. Your home can become a haven for them, promoting longevity and well-being.
  • Less Stress: Older pets tend to prefer a quieter, more stable lifestyle. By adopting a senior pet, you create an atmosphere that reduces their stress levels, allowing them to enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling life.

A Win-Win Situation

Adopting a senior pet offers a multitude of benefits that positively impact both you and your new companion. You gain a loyal friend who appreciates your love and care, while the pet receives the stability and affection they need to thrive.

If you’re looking to bring joy into your life, consider opening your heart to a senior pet. Their gratitude and companionship will not only enrich your life but will also allow you to make a meaningful difference in their world.

View our Pet Wellness Videos for more expert pet advice.

At Pet Butler, we want you and your pet to live your best and healthiest lives, which is why we offer Pet Waste Removal and Pet Care services year-round. We offer weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, and one-time clean-up services to meet your schedule and needs.

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