Have you ever wondered how to adopt a dog? Adopting him can save his life if he has been abandoned or abused, not to mention that it can be a wonderful experience for you. You can find dogs of all ages and breeds, and adopt one through specific breed adoption centers, kennels or associations.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Finding a Dog
Step 1. Research the various breeds
Each has different personalities and needs. Research the different breed types to find the one that suits you best. There are plenty of articles online, as well as dedicated books and magazines that will help you choose.
- Match the choice with your needs. Some types of dogs are more energetic than others. If you are a sedentary person who enjoys quiet activities, it is not worth adopting breeds known for their energy such as the Boxer or the Jack Russel Terrier. Instead, focus on quieter ones like the Pekingese or Shi Tzu.
- Also consider the environment in which you live. Adopt a small dog if you live in an apartment. Large dogs can still live in small spaces, but they must be given the opportunity to do the right physical activity during the day. On the other hand, some small dogs may feel uncomfortable and unsafe in an environment that is too large.
- Determine how much time you have available. If you adopt a puppy, you will need to train him. Older dogs may already be domesticated and have received training. Additionally, some dogs need more stimulation throughout the day. Take into consideration how much time you might spend on it.
Step 2. Look at dogs with special needs as well
They can be of various kinds: extra veterinary care, physical disabilities, behavioral or emotional problems due to abuse, etc.
- Make sure you understand the dog's real needs before adopting it. For example, if he suffers from a chronic illness, you will need to take him to the vet often. Make sure you can cover the costs if you want to take care of an animal with this need.
- Keep some extra time to spend on it. Many dogs get agitated when they arrive at their new home and this condition can be aggravated if they have special needs. Make sure you have some extra time to help him get familiar with you and your family, as well as the new space.
- Ask the shelter or association: "What should I do and what do I need to take care of this dog?"
Step 3. Visit the shelter
You will find breeds of all ages and training levels. Call and make an appointment so you can meet the adoptable dogs. Also ask if they have a specific foster care program.
- Maybe visit the shelter's website first. Many of them contain information on both the dogs to be adopted and the fostering program. Read the various profiles to know their personality and their needs.
- If you are looking for a particular breed, please enter your details on the kennel's waiting list. Most will contact you when there is one available for adoption.
- Contact a breed specific adoption center. Look for one online or in the telephone directory if you want to adopt a certain type of dog or a purebred one.
Part 2 of 4: Preparing for the new Dog
Step 1. Buy what you need to take care of a dog
A collar and leash, food and water bowls, and a specific food are all necessary. Plus, you can buy a pet carrier, toys, dog bed, and training treats. Here is a list of useful things:
- Bowl for food
- Dog food
- Bowl for water
- Harness or collar
- Leash
- Tag
- sit
- Travel carrier or cage
- A pillow or blanket for the kennel
- New toys
Step 2. Find a vet
You will most likely not need to contact him before adoption, but kennels often ask to find one before taking the dog home. This way you will be prepared in advance.
- Contact the veterinarians closest to you and ask if they have experience with the type of dog you want to adopt. Ask them if they are comfortable with the type of breed you have chosen. If you adopt a dog with special needs, also ask if they have the ability to take care of his or her particular needs.
- Learn about your health plan. Many vets set up an annual one that includes a series of visits and services, for puppies and adults, such as vaccines and specific tests. Ask if they offer discounted packages to help you take care of your new dog.
Step 3. Dog-proof the house
If it's not ready for the new arrival, be sure to remove or relocate any potential risks to your new pet. The extent of this securing depends on the dog's size and personality, but things to do often include:
- Block access to stairs that could give him access to areas of the house that you don't want him to reach, or that could be dangerous for a puppy;
- Cover garbage cans without lids;
- Protect furniture that the dog can reach, especially if it contains food or cleaning products
- Move or secure any object with pointed corners or sharp edges;
- Cover the toilet, especially those with self-sanitizing products;
- Make sure that the yard or outdoor area you take your dog into is fenced.
- Remove or protect any potentially harmful plants in your garden or home, such as fruit, vegetables, or palm trees;
- Evaluate other areas of the house if necessary.
Part 3 of 4: Adopting Your New Dog
Step 1. Fill out the documents
Once you've found the dog that's right for you, you've secured your home and are ready for his arrival, begin the fostering process by filling out the necessary paperwork for the kennel or association. Let the shelter know that you are ready for adoption, get confirmation that the dog you want is still available and ask to send you a copy of the fostering document.
- Adoption documents can take a long time to fill out. They don't just require your name and address, but your vet's contact details, yours, your reasons for adopting and what you have done to prepare for the dog's arrival.
- Understand that kennel volunteers want to make sure your dog finds love, care, and a permanent home for life. Fill out the documents as completely as possible.
Step 2. Pay the adoption fee
Most shelters or associations require a payment to cover expenses, including sterilization and any necessary care after recovery. Rates vary based on the age, breed and needs of the dog, as well as the type of care and training the kennel offers.
- Make sure your payment method is accepted. You may not be able to adopt if, for example, you want to use your credit card, but the shelter only accepts cash or checks.
- Contact the kennel to find out the exact rate to pay, if they haven't told you yet.
Step 3. Plan a home visit
Some shelters require a pre-foster check before giving a dog up for adoption. Ask if it is necessary and, if so, agree on the day and time together.
- Ask in advance for the modalities of this visit. Will it be day or night? Will the kennel provide the food, the kennel and some toys? What do you need to buy?
- The goal of pre-foster care is to make sure you can actually take care of the dog. Ask what kind of documentation you need to provide to prove it.
- Make sure you have time. It is not recommended to leave the dog alone during the visit. Don't have errands to run before your dog arrives, take a break from work or school if necessary, and spend the whole day with him.
Step 4. Plan the adoption
Once you have filled in all the paperwork and passed the examination, you are ready to take your new dog. Plan to go to the shelter and take him to his new and final home.
- Make sure you have suitable transportation. Even if public transport allows pets on board, the dog may be frightened or disoriented and may try to escape. Instead, use the car or ask for a ride to get him home quickly and with minimal stress.
- Make sure you adopt the dog when you can be with him all day. He will most likely be disoriented and a little scared. Leaving him home alone for a long time immediately after adopting him would not help him. Take the day to get to know him and help him get used to the new environment.
Part 4 of 4: Caring for the Adopted Dog
Step 1. Train the puppy
If you adopt one, it may have a lot of energy that needs to be carefully channeled. Sign up for a basic training course with him. In addition to teaching the dog proper behavior, it will help you learn how to handle some unwelcome actions or habits.
- The key to training is consistency. Take the course and practice at home;
- Consider further training if your puppy still needs it after finishing the basic course;
- Pet stores often provide training courses for newly adopted puppies and adults. Also contact one to get advice on educators near you.
Step 2. Socialize your dog
It is important for him to interact with other dogs and people in a healthy and respectful way. Get him to approach him in the most appropriate way, educating others to do so as well.
- Be aware that this may take some time for a rescued animal. They can be shy and cautious. It is important to give them the opportunity to socialize, but without forcing them. You could cause harm to both the dog and anyone who interacts with him.
- Start by introducing it to your family members and friends back home. Let him meet new people in a familiar environment before letting him stay with them for an extended period of time.
- Look for a dog area to bring yours and socialize with others.
- If you think he's too aggressive, ask a behaviorist for help. Aggression often depends on previous training or an inner fear of the dog. Proper training, using positive reinforcement, can help them learn correct behavior.
Step 3. Take him to the vet
Even if the shelter has already done so, it is important to get him checked out after taking him home. This will allow the dog and the vet to get to know each other. It also allows the doctor to make a clinical evaluation and plan a proper health plan.
Call your vet and let him know you have a new dog. Ask him to arrange a visit to get to know him and set up a health plan
Step 4. Be patient
Your new dog is required to get a huge amount of information all at once. In addition, he may still be stressed about his previous abandonment or life in the old house. Have patience and be understanding as he gets used to the new environment.
- Avoid stereotypical but harmful behaviors, such as hitting him, even if lightly, with a rolled-up newspaper or rubbing his nose in pee if they accidentally do it in the house.
- Use positive reinforcement with affection, cuddles, and treats. Try not to react to negative behaviors unless they pose an immediate threat to the dog or someone else.
- Work with an educator or behaviorist if needed to find the right way to train your dog.
- Don't give up if it doesn't do exactly what you want. Keep working and reinforcing positive behaviors.
