10/01/2024
Have you made the decision to adopt a rescue dog?
Your dog may have experienced some difficult times, been badly treated, may be wary of humans. They will have baggage.
Often rescue dogs have travelled a long, arduous journey, in a vehicle for many hours.
They will need time to recover from their journey
Your instincts will be to make a fuss of your new dog, DON’T
Your new dog has no idea where they are or who you are.
You have good intentions but your new dog doesn’t know this.
They need to learn to trust you
Give them space
Do not hug them
Do not encroach on them. Let them come to you to interact
Let them explore their new environment in their own time
You are introducing a strange dog into your home. This will change the dynamics of the relationships for everyone, including yourself and your other four or two legged family members.
• Do not allow children to scream, race around, jump about or touch the dog. This dog needs to have a calm quiet space where THEY MUST BE LEFT ALONE.
Make it your responsibility to learn about Dog Communication
Displacement Behaviours are a clear indicator of the emotional state of a dog. These displacement behaviours are used globally.
Ensure you are listening to your dogs subtle signals, so they don’t need to escalate their behaviour to make you listen.
Remember: Your dog WILL take weeks to de-stress. Some dogs may take months, some dogs will take years and some may always be concerned and worried. But you will learn to manage your rescue so they can experience love and happiness in their lives and you will have a wonderful companion.
Time and patience is paramount.
If you have any concerns or your dog is struggling;
Don’t wait
Don’t let it escalate
Please contact either your rescue provider or
Bone Zone