{"id":1031,"date":"2024-05-14T09:45:54","date_gmt":"2024-05-14T09:45:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/?p=1031"},"modified":"2024-06-28T08:41:20","modified_gmt":"2024-06-28T08:41:20","slug":"dog-adoption-creating-a-forever-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/?p=1031","title":{"rendered":"Dog Adoption\u2014Creating a Forever Home"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- wp:themify-builder\/canvas \/-->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1033,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,23],"tags":[38],"class_list":["post-1031","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-all-posts","category-dog-adoption","tag-dog-adoption","has-post-title","has-post-date","has-post-category","has-post-tag","has-post-comment","has-post-author",""],"builder_content":"<h1>Dog Adoption\u2014Creating a Forever Home<\/h1>\nAre you considering dog adoption or rescue? TrackiPet shares tips for making your dog adoption story a shining success!\n<section>\n\u00a0\n<\/section>\n<img src=\"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash.jpg\" title=\"anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash\" alt=\"anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash\" srcset=\"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash-1024x640.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/anoir-chafik-2_3c4dIFYFU-unsplash-600x375.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px\" \/>\n<h1 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\"><strong>Everything you need to know to give your dog adoption story a happily ever after.<\/strong><\/h1> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>If you\u2019re considering dog adoption or rescue, TrackiPet applauds you! Dog adoption is one of the most rewarding things a pet parent can do.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>And, sometimes, one of the most challenging.\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Why is that? Well, because adopted dogs come into our homes with a set of experiences that we can\u2019t control or usually even know. Many adopted dogs adapt easily to their new homes anyway. Others need more time and patience. All are deserving of love and safety.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>To set you up for success, let\u2019s go over best practices during the following dog adoption stages:<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <ul> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pre-adoption<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Settling in<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term care\u00a0<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Giving back<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>And for inspiration, we\u2019ll be sharing some heart-warming rescue stories along the way!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h2><strong>Pre-adoption<\/strong><\/h2> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Sometimes, you\u2019ll have months to plan for your rescue dog\u2019s arrival. Many\u00a0<b>shelters, rescue networks, and previous owners<\/b>\u00a0offer a thorough transition process. Other times, they show up in your life without warning like a gift you didn\u2019t know you wanted!\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Assuming you have at least a\u00a0<i>little bit<\/i>\u00a0of time to prepare, here are some steps you can take to make your adopted pup\u2019s transition a smooth one.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>Choosing the right dog<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Most shelters and rescue networks offer something like a catalogue of the dogs in their care. As you peruse your options, it\u2019s important to be realistic about the factors that will make you and your new rescue a good fit.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>The size and layout of your home, your family structure, and the time and resources you can dedicate to exercise, training, and medical care all help you determine what kind of dog would be happiest with you. Here are some things to consider:<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <ul> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Breed<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Age<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gender\u00a0<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Size<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Health and Special Considerations<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0703\/7878\/3009\/files\/hannah-lim-U6nlG0Y5sfs-unsplash_480x480.jpg?v=1690969318\" alt=\"Dog Adoption\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Dog Adoption\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\"><\/h2> <p>\u00a0<\/p> <h3>Learning about your potential match<\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>The more information you have about your new rescue, the more prepared you\u2019ll be to meet its needs. A medical history and a summary of previous living conditions are great places to start when they\u2019re available!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>This sort of knowledge will help you understand your new pup\u2019s behavior and the training techniques that are most likely to be effective. You may even be able to provide consistency in training commands, toys, or diet that your new dog will find really comforting amid all the change!\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Many rescue dogs come with incomplete histories. That\u2019s ok! Patience, love, and observation will get you far.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>Preparing the home<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Rescue dogs have often lacked stability in their lives or had their stability taken away from them. Preparing your home not only lays the groundwork for clear communication and expectations but also mitigates the negative effects of certain behaviors that arise in times of change.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Set up pooch\u2019s physical living space. It might be limited in the beginning and grow with time and trust.\u00a0<b>Dogproof<\/b>\u00a0this space by:\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <ul> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Removing chemicals<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Removing fragile or dear items<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arranging for easy clean-up of potty accidents<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Securing cables<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Setting boundaries with toddler gates<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Finally, arrange pooch\u2019s bed (and\/or crate) and toys!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>You\u2019ll also want to pre-plan a routine for feeding, exercise, potty, and training time. Make sure you\u2019ll be able to stick with it for the long term. Clear your schedule as much as possible for the first few weeks after pup moves in to maximize bonding and training time.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>Success Story: Rebuilding Health<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Butterball\u00a0was found on the street as a puppy, emaciated and full of fleas. Fortunately, a good Samaritan found her and brought her to an excellent shelter with a strong rehabilitation program. She was nursed back to health and given all the best until she found her loving forever home!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Triplets\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogstrust.org.uk\/about-us\/news\/puppy-trio-happy-ending\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Pickle, Pepper, and Pesto - open in a new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-brl=\"PR\" data-uw-original-href=\"https:\/\/www.dogstrust.org.uk\/about-us\/news\/puppy-trio-happy-ending\">Pickle, Pepper, and Pesto<\/a>\u00a0were found with bad cases of mange, a disease that affects the fur and skin. An amazing rescue team took them in and gave them the care they needed. All three pups have fully recovered and been successfully rehomed!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h2><strong>Settling in<\/strong><\/h2> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Congratulations! You\u2019ve now welcomed your brand new rescue. How can you help them settle in?\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>The vet<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Depending on your rescue dog\u2019s age and history, they might need basic medical care like vaccines, microchipping, sterilization, or a general checkup. It\u2019s crucial that these are completed before you introduce socialization and outdoor exercise into your routine. Even if pooch is up-to-date, it\u2019s useful to build a strong relationship with your vet early on.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>Creating a safe, calm environment<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Avoid overstimulation during pup\u2019s early days in your home. Introduce them to their space, toys, and routine with calm and consistency. If you have kids, make sure an adult is around during their early interactions with pup. And maybe wait a while before bringing playdates home.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Even if your new rescue is already well trained, big changes can cause unexpected behaviors. Accidents, chewing, and guarding are not unusual and should be treated with patience. Be on the lookout for symptoms of medical distress or behavioral issues that will require-long term training.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3><strong>Diet<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Whenever possible, maintain consistency with the diet that pooch is used to. If you\u2019re going to make a change, do so gradually, mixing increasing amounts of the new food with the old one.\u00a0<\/p> <p>Watch carefully how pooch responds to their diet.\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0703\/7878\/3009\/files\/richard-brutyo-Sg3XwuEpybU-unsplash_480x480.jpg?v=1690969553\" alt=\"Dog Diet\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"Dog Diet\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\"><\/h2> <p>\u00a0<\/p> <h3><strong>Success Story: Overcoming Trauma<\/strong><\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>When\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.animalhumanesociety.org\/news\/our-10-most-heartwarming-dog-adoption-stories-2021-so-far\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Oakley - open in a new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-brl=\"PR\" data-uw-original-href=\"https:\/\/www.animalhumanesociety.org\/news\/our-10-most-heartwarming-dog-adoption-stories-2021-so-far\">Oakley<\/a>\u00a0first arrived in his forever home, he showed signs of serious trauma. He was wary of toys (especially squeaky ones), reluctant to accept food, and had a nervous demeanor. His amazing new parents made it their mission to help him overcome his past and blossom into the trusting, fun-loving pup they knew he could be.\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Then the pandemic struck. Suddenly, they needed Oakley\u2019s support just as much as he needed theirs. Luckily, being stuck at home allowed them to dedicate tons of time to training and bonding and Oakley advanced quickly. Now he\u2019s absolutely thriving, thanks to the love and attention of his adopted parents.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h2><strong>Long-term Care<\/strong><\/h2> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>In many ways, long-term care for a rescue dog is the same as for any other. They need their vet visits, grooming, age and breed-appropriate diet and exercise, and ongoing training.\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>But an adopted dog may have different benchmarks than other dogs. The lasting effects of abandonment, abuse, or puppyhood illness may be apparent for a long time to come. Stay patient and committed and always celebrate small wins!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h3>Success Story: Senior Dog Adoption<\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>A lot of adoptive pet parents hesitate to take in senior dogs. It takes strength to bond with a beloved pet knowing that a hard goodbye is on the horizon!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Meet\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rd.com\/list\/rescue-dogs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Lady - open in a new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-brl=\"PR\" data-uw-original-href=\"https:\/\/www.rd.com\/list\/rescue-dogs\/\">Lady<\/a>, an elderly yellow lab whose previous owner sadly passed away. His son fostered her but couldn\u2019t really provide the home she needed and ended up giving her to a local shelter. On her first vet visit, the caring professional knew immediately that Lady would be coming home with her.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Lady needs a lot of special care, but she returns the favor with endless love, snuggles, and patience with the children in her new family! Now this special girl can live out her days surrounded by people who adore her.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h2><strong>Giving Back<\/strong><\/h2> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Dogs are endlessly sensitive and LOVE to be useful. This makes certain dogs ideal for special companionship tasks! Training a rescue as a service dog for a member of your own family or as a therapy dog to collaborate with a local non-profit is a great way to integrate pooch into the community.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Remember, not ALL rescue dogs can be trained as service dogs. Here are some traits that make a great candidate for service training:<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <ul> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A calm temperament<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A strong attachment to\/desire to be with humans<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A quick learner<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No preexisting behavior problems<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1-2 years of age<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adequate physical condition for the necessary tasks<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Service dogs can be trained to assist with a wide range of physical and mental conditions including PTSD, epilepsy, mental illness, blindness, deafness, and mobility issues.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>If you think your rescue dog would make a great service dog, there are a few ways to get them trained up:<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <ul> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A certified training program<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One-on-one training with an expert<\/li> <li style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At-home training<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Training should be fun for pooch. If they show signs of discontent, they may need a career change.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Whether pooch becomes a dedicated service dog or just loves to visit hospitals and care homes, they\u2019ll absolutely love the praise, bonding, and sense of fulfillment!<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0703\/7878\/3009\/files\/dana-ward--tALwr-WoAU-unsplash_480x480.jpg?v=1690969698\" alt=\"dog adoption\" data-uw-rm-alt-original=\"dog adoption\" data-uw-rm-alt=\"ALT\"><\/h2> <p>\u00a0<\/p> <h3>Success Story: Ready for Duty<\/h3> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dogstrust.org.uk\/how-we-help\/stories\/service-dogs-uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\"Service Dogs UK - open in a new tab\" data-uw-rm-ext-link=\"\" data-uw-rm-brl=\"PR\" data-uw-original-href=\"https:\/\/www.dogstrust.org.uk\/how-we-help\/stories\/service-dogs-uk\">Service Dogs UK<\/a>\u00a0trains rescue dogs to assist veterans struggling with PTSD.\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>\u201cThe dogs typically assist by waking their handler from nightmares, fetching medication, interrupting anxiety attacks and depressive behaviours, taking them to the nearest exit when overwhelmed and positioning themselves to provide tactile comfort and support when needed.\u201d<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>These canine heroes are matched with human heroes to help both move forward with fullfilling, rewarding lives. Veterans and rescues go through the training program together, building an unbreakable bond along the way.<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <p>Veterans report a renewed zest for life. Pooches report dedicated care, lifelong friendship, and a sense of purpose!\u00a0<\/p> <h2 role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" data-uw-rm-heading=\"level\">\u00a0<\/h2> <h2><strong>Are you ready to embark on the dog adoption journey?<\/strong><\/h2>","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1031","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1031"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1031\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1065,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1031\/revisions\/1065"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1033"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1031"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1031"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/trackipet.ca\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1031"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}