Is your canin e buddy a rescue? If so, put a pawprint on your calendar for May 20th: it’s Rescue Dog Day! Quite a few of our canine patients are former rescues that are now happy, healthy, and beloved family pets. Giving a pup a second chance is a truly wonderful act of kindness. If you’ve adopted a rescue dog, you definitely deserve a round of ‘applaws!’ Here, a Wake Forest, NC vet discusses caring for rescue dogs.

P  recautions

Rescue dogs all have their own unique stories and histories. Fido may have been a pet who got lost and had to fend for himself. Or, he may have come from a bad situation. If you’re not sure, just be prepared. Make sure that your home and yard have been thoroughly petproofed. When walking your new pal, use a sturdy leash and collar. You want to have a good grip on your furry friend, just in case something spooks him.

Getting Settled

It can take a few days for Fido to relax, a few weeks for him to adjust, and a few months for him to really feel at home. We don’t usually advocate spoiling dogs, but you may need to give your new pet some extra treats at first. This will help him feel safe and start to trust. At first, focus on making your pooch feel comfortable and addressing any health issues he may have. If your canine pal needs training, start his petucation immediately. Be positive, and offer lots of rewards! 

Let Love Grow

It’s truly beautiful seeing a rescue dog grow, thrive, and shine with great care. Just be prepared for a few bumps along the way. That’s only to be expected. You may also discover that Fido has a few quirks. For instance, he may be scared of specific things, such as loud noises or certain types of people. Or, he may be reluctant to let you care for his teeth or nails. Ask your vet or a professional behaviorist for tips on helping your pooch cope with fear, anxiety, and/or behavioral issues. In many cases, time and TLC are really the only solutions. The good news is that time and TLC can make a dramatic difference. Tail wags from rescue dogs are truly priceless!

As your Wake Forest, NC animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care! Call us anytime!