Whether it’s your first or twelfth time adopting an animal, bringing a new dog home can feel intimidating. You could have young children, other animals, or an active environment that can lead to unwanted incidents. So, here’s everything to know about dog adoption.
Get Them Tagged and Microchipped
You never know what could happen when you bring a timid, fear-ridden pooch home. One moment, they’re learning to bond with you, then the next moment, they could get spooked and run off. So, getting your newly adopted dog microchipped and tagged is essential.
You want a proper collar with your dog’s name and two phone numbers for you or an emergency contact. Furthermore, microchipping ensures your pooch can get tracked and makes it easier for them to return home after getting lost or running away. You can rest assured knowing your dog will have the proper identification in case they go missing.
Give Them Attention and Time
An adopted dog can have difficulty adjusting to their new environment, feeling confused and intimidated by their surroundings. But dogs have social personalities, so they’ll want to stick by you during their transition. Enjoy your time with them by teaching them tricks, bonding over their new favorite toys, and giving them affection when they’re nervous so they always feel safe and comfortable.
Understand the Costs of a Dog
No matter the age of the dog you adopt, something to know beforehand is the costs that go into dog ownership. Aside from adoption fees, food, water, bedding, and toys, other costs can come with having a pooch in your home. You’ll have to consider whether your pup needs to get spayed, purchase a dog collar, ID tag, and leash, annual vet checkups and vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and more.
If you want to adjust your pup’s behavior, the cost of training classes is another fee to consider. It doesn’t end with adopting the dog and bringing them home; you must adjust your spending to help the dog adjust to your home as best as possible. You also must consider additional bedding, cleaning products, travel supplies, senior dog care, and catering to their dietary or sensitivity needs.
Consider Health-Related Issues
Adopting a dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have, especially when a dog lives with health issues and complications. This can include food and allergy sensitivities, organ issues, disability, mobility issues, and traumatic experiences. Take the time to ensure that your pooch has the absolute best care possible to feel comfortable and happy in your home.
Furthermore, adopting a senior dog comes with some challenges: expect senior dog expenses, heart monitoring, lower energy levels, and other factors that can make their life more difficult. So, practice patience and modify your life to best suit your senior pooch.
