When you bring an animal home from the shelter, there are many things that you need to prepare for. From pet-friendly furniture to bathroom breaks, there are many accommodations that need to be made in your day to day life. In addition, raising a puppy is different from adopting an adult animal. When you adopt an animal, there are experiences that they have had that have shaped their behaviors. Due to this adjustment, it is important that you take the time to get to know what your dog wants and needs. In this article, we will share five things you need to know before adopting a pet.
1. The Brand of Dog Food Matters
Although it is tempting to purchase the cheapest brand of food at the store, this option does not work well for many animals. Most breeds of dogs are prone to sensitivities that limit the ingredients that they can consume. Earthborn Holistic Pet Food has created a wholesome and delicious alternative to traditional brands. This nourishing dog food offers selections that are enriched with vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates.
2. It Is Difficult to Teach an Old Dog New Tricks
When you raise a puppy, you have the ability to establish a framework that supports proper behavior. When you adopt an animal from the shelter, you are inheriting the poor behaviors that the dog learned from its prior owners. Although it is possible to train your animal, it is difficult. Start by building trust with your pet. Execute short training sessions that allow your dog to slowly warm up to the new behavior. Use positive reinforcement as often as possible.
3. You Will Have to Alter Your Schedule
When you bring an animal home, your life will change. Dogs wake up early and need to relieve themselves. If you are constantly gone during the day, you will have to find ways to swing by the house and let your animal out. In addition, pets need to release their energy. Each day, animals need to go on a walk, play fetch, or play with other neighborhood friends. Although these tasks are fairly easy, they need to be executed consistently. When a dog does not release energy or have proper bathroom breaks, they will likely begin acting out.
4. Research Is Important
Many animals that come home from the shelter are a mix of multiple breeds. If this is the case for your pet, it is important that you research the qualities associated with each relevant breed. Researching your dog’s breed helps you learn common allergens, behaviors, and illnesses that your dog may face in the future.
5. It Still Costs Money
Many people choose to adopt dogs from shelters because it is an affordable way to bring home a new pet. Although this is less expensive than purchasing a dog from a breeder, it still has costs associated. Dogs require an immense amount of food, regular check-ups, and emergency veterinarian visits. Be prepared to provide funding for these expenses.
Summary
Adopting a pet from a shelter is a charitable act. When you adopt an animal, you will likely face some challenges. It will take time for the dog to adjust to your home and obey your commands. When you do adequate research and are prepared for this transition, you can provide a happy home for your pet.