11/15/2025
Congratulations! You walked into the shelter, locked eyes with a dog, and it’s basically love at first sniff. You’re already imagining Instagram selfies, matching Christmas pajamas, and late-night cuddle sessions. But hold up, before you start planning your lives together, there’s one tiny thing: you have to get them home first.
Think of this like a first date: your dog is excited, nervous, and 100% suspicious that you might be a serial killer. They don’t know you yet, and you don’t want them running off and ending the relationship before it even started. So here’s your foolproof guide to getting your pet home safely:
Step 1: Pre-Date Prep (Before You Leave the Shelter)
Before you even leave the shelter, it’s all about first impressions and preparation. Make sure your dog’s collar is secure and properly fitted, complete with an ID tag. Add a harness for extra security, and if your pup has Houdini tendencies, clip the leash to both the collar and harness because double commitment never hurts. Your car should be set up with a crate or seatbelt harness at the ready, so they can feel safe and you can drive without panic. Don’t forget your adoption paperwork, medications, and shelter contact info. And get all the insider info from the staff about feeding schedules, potty habits, and quirks. Nothing says “I’m paying attention” like remembering their favorite things, so take notes so you can ace your first date.
Step 2: The Car Ride (The Awkward First Drive)
The car ride is basically your first date, thrilling but anxiety-inducing. Keep your dog safely contained in a crate or seatbelt harness, like giving your date personal space while still holding hands. Windows up, convertible tops down? Nope. Not the time for dramatic hair-in-the-wind selfies. And forget any pit stops! No Starbucks, gas, or Target detours, you wouldn’t run errands on a first date! Speak calmly to soothe their nerves, but don’t reach into the crate or over-manage them; nobody likes clingy behavior. If possible, bring a wing-woman (or wing-man) along to monitor your dog, hand out treats, and make sure nothing goes sideways.
Step 3: Arriving Home (First Impression Matters)
Pull into your garage or driveway first to prevent any accidental escapes. Nobody wants a dramatic exit before dessert. Keep your dog leashed until they’re safely inside a secure area.. Let them tour their new digs at their own pace, sniffing around the yard and house like they’re picking their favorite coffee shop table. Double-check doors, gates, and fences for gaps or loose latches. Finally, create a calm space where your dog can decompress, because a little chill time after a whirlwind love story goes a long way.
Step 4: Pro Tips for a Healthy Relationship (aka Avoid Drama)
Start your relationship off on the right paw by keeping routines simple: regular meals, potty breaks, and quiet time. Avoid overwhelming adventures like dog parks or marathon walks for the first few days, giving your pup time to adjust and feel safe. And if you notice extreme fear or stress, reach out to the shelter; even the best relationships sometimes need a little professional advice.
Follow these steps, and your first day home will feel less “chaotic thriller” and more “adorable romantic comedy.”