As you wait to hear from an FCHS volunteer, consider the following ideas related to pet ownership. We look forward to talking with you soon!
Consider
The 3-3-3 Rule
First three days: Pets may be stressed and overwhelmed, possibly showing anxiety or fear. Give your rescue dog time to adjust to their new surroundings and get used to you. Limit exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences, and provide a quiet and safe space for the dog to rest and recover.
First three weeks: Pets start to settle in. Less stress will help us experience more of their personality (outside of their stress-related coping mechanisms) as they become more comfortable. Work on basic training and stay consistent.
First three months: Pets are further adjusted to new surroundings, people, and animals. They begin to trust, showing their true personalities and integrating into the household.
Other resources:
- Not all dogs are comfortable going on extended trips and will need care during vacations or other family travel.
- If something unforeseen happens to you or your family, who would care for your animals?
- What behaviors or challenges would cause you to return a dog to the shelter?
- Dogs can be expensive to care for, with ~$1,200 - $2,800 per year being required for adequate food, shelter, and medical care.
- Older dogs may require additional veterinary care.
- Younger dogs require consistent exercise and enrichment.
- Puppies require patience and dedicated training.
- It can be challenging and time-consuming to introduce a resident dog to a newly adopted dog.
The 3-3-3 Rule
First three days: Pets may be stressed and overwhelmed, possibly showing anxiety or fear. Give your rescue dog time to adjust to their new surroundings and get used to you. Limit exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences, and provide a quiet and safe space for the dog to rest and recover.
First three weeks: Pets start to settle in. Less stress will help us experience more of their personality (outside of their stress-related coping mechanisms) as they become more comfortable. Work on basic training and stay consistent.
First three months: Pets are further adjusted to new surroundings, people, and animals. They begin to trust, showing their true personalities and integrating into the household.
Other resources: