The new year often brings a desire for new beginnings. For some, that means opening their heart and home to a rescue animal in need of a fresh start. However, the decision to adopt a pet should not be made lightly. Bringing an animal into your family is a long term commitment – they rely on you for their health, safety and wellbeing.
If you’ve decided 2024 is the year to expand your family with a rescue pet, congratulations! With some mindful preparation and understanding of your new friend’s needs, it is an incredibly rewarding experience for both humans and the pet you choose. These tips will help make the transition smooth.
Making the Commitment Consciously
The first step is reflecting honestly on whether you’re ready to make a years-long (or even decades long!) commitment to caring for another living creature. Does it fit into your current lifestyle or lifestyle you hope for in the future. Recognize that a pet needs regular attention, exercise, veterinary care, grooming, quality nutrition and more. These responsibilities shouldn’t be taken lightly. Do your research on a breed or animal’s specific needs before deciding to move forward with an adoption.
Preparing Your Home Thoughtfully
Once you’ve determined you can make the required commitment, shift your focus to preparing a safe, comforting environment for your new family member. Every animal and breed has different requirements, so adapt your home accordingly. For example, make sure all chemical cleaners, toxins, medications, stringed blinds or tiny objects are securely out of reach if adopting a curious kitten. Do you have valuables that could be knocked over by a large wagging tail? We always recommend getting down on the ground and looking at your home from the pet’s perspective so you can see potential hazards.
Making the Transition Smoothly
While bringing your rescue animal home is an exciting milestone, remember the adjustment period after adoption can be challenging and should be handled with care. If possible, take some time off from work or other obligations to spend caring for, bonding with and continuing the training of your new pet during this transitional period. Look into options like dog walkers or pet sitters to arrange adequate care on days when your schedule keeps you away for long hours right away, you want to go out in the evening for an extended period of time or go on a vacation.
Additionally, allow about 2-3 weeks for your new companion to settle into their environment before arranging formal training. Some behaviours may resolve on their own as they become more comfortable. Other undesirable habits may surface that weren’t initially apparent as well. Giving them ample time to adjust will allow for accurate training that addresses their true needs.
Introducing Your New Pet Gently
Finally, when adoption day arrives, create a low-stress introduction on your rescue animal’s terms. Understand they may be overwhelmed, fearful or even unsocialized. Let them explore calmly, provide a designated safe zone, and give them time to acclimate without pressure to interact with other pets or family members until ready. Moving slowly, respectfully and based on their body language cues is key.
Adopting an animal can be such a fulfilling act – especially by providing a second chance for an animal in need. But good preparation and research is critical. With understanding and compassion on your side, you’ll make progress together.
Morag is the owner and founder of York Regions most trusted premier in-home pet care and dog walking companies. In 2000 she saw a need for an alternative to kennels, catteries for family pets in the area and has always believed that pets are much happier and less stressed staying in their own familiar environment. Morag and her team are all certified in Pet 1st Aid and CPR, she also offers continuous training to her team members through online and hands on pet care and pet behaviour and care courses. Morag has earned her certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Professional Dog Walking and Canine Attendant training. She has lived in the Newmarket/Aurora area since 1991 is a wife, a mother of 2 adult children and a grandmother of 2 delightful little balls of energy. She has also been owned by fish, birds, mice, rats, cats, dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs and is an advocate for all living creatures. In her spare time she likes to be involved in her community and events travelling, reading and cooking.
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