Your Adopted Pet: "Where am I? And who are all these people?"

"Where am I? And who are all these people?"

Imagine being airdropped into a strange country where nothing is familiar, you do not know anyone, the rules of acceptable behavior have changed and you cannot speak the language. It would be confusing, if not downright scary and you would likely offend a few people before you got the hang of things. This is probably how your newly adopted pet is going to feel although he may not show his confusion. As far as he knows, you are just another part of the parade of people who have passed through his life lately and your home is just another stopover. The pet you adopted has potentially been through a difficult journey that started when his family gave him up or he became lost. He may have been under stress or neglected in his past life or frightened by being homeless. His first stop was at an animal shelter, a concerned stranger’s home or the home of a foster family. He has likely had a complete physical exam, and possibly surgery or medical treatment. In the process he was handled, bathed and petted by a sea of strangers. Once determined healthy and ready for adoption, he was possibly moved from multiple kennels, had multiple kennel-mates or even moved from foster home to foster home – another new environment with more happy strangers and a new routine. He has, now, at long last found a long term family of his own although he does not know or understand it yet. It is now up to you to help him feel loved and secure.

In the process of transforming your pet’s confusion into security and knowledge, it is important to look at things from his point of view. Pets are often eager to please their owners once they understand the rules. It is your job to communicate clear rules in a way that you pet can understand. Be sensitive to the fact that in our pet’s previous home he may have been encouraged to sit on the sofa, beg for food, jump on you for attention or play roughly. If it is not permissible, teach him and do not blame him. Be kind and patient; pets need repetition and consistency to learn. Instruct him in a positive way so that he does not feel defensive or confused. Reward him for good behavior with treats, attention and a happy voice. Use consistent words that can become familiar to your pet to elicit certain behaviors, such as “Off”, “Give”, “Trade” or “Leave it”. Avoid giving attention to your pet for behaviors you do not want them to repeat. We strongly suggested obedience classes for dogs as a way to bond and communicate. They are an excellent resource of information and support as you and your dog adjust.

As your pet settles in and starts to learn the rules in his new home he will get more comfortable. The transition time for each pet is different, taking from a few weeks to a few months to completely adjust to his new life. Like people, pets deal with change and stress in many different ways. Some become overly excited, others will be a bit depressed by the loss of family and surroundings, some are needy and clingy, still others might be a bit defensive and worried, and then there are those that take it in stride! No matter your pet’s reaction, remember to go slowly, start teaching the new rules from day one and be respectful of the difficulty of being “airdropped” into a different world.

It will take time for your pet to bond with you. Offer love and guidance but never force an interaction. Children should be supervised closely when with your new pet and contact should be limited during this time. Keeping the environment quiet for the first few days will be important. Allow your pet to get comfortable with your home and the new rules before he meets your friends, co-workers, and the neighborhood. Be realistic about your expectations during the transition period. Never assume your pet can cope with all the new situations in his life without a problem or two. Set up precautionary measures when he is alone in the house, when he first meets new children, and when around unfamiliar pets. Live by the old saying – an ounce off prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Now that you have had the opportunity to consider this new relationship from the pet’s point of view, we know you will do your best to make the strange new land into a safe and happy home.