Shelter Adoption- Old Friends make New Friends

Adopted Pets as Your New Pet

Animal overpopulation is a huge issue. Pet shelters are overflowing while the stray population grows as well. Adopting an  adult dog or cat is increasingly becoming popular. While an adopted pet can have many benefits, there are also unique problems that come with the task. Before you adopt and old pet as your new pet, there are some pieces of information you should know.

Introduce Adopted Pet to Old Pets

Many families looking to adopt a new pet already own other pets. When these older dogs and cats are introduced to other adult pets, problems can arise. When puppies and kittens are introduced, however, dominance is clearly outlined. Since this is not able to occur with adopted pets, slowly introduce them to your animal family. Make sure you supervise the meetings for the first few weeks at least. This will help both the new and old pets adjust to each other.

Be Patient

Adopted pets can come with a multitude of issues. They may have been abused or neglected. For this reason, be patient with your new dog or cat. If he cowers when you try to pet him, try a slower approach. This is usually a trait of formerly abused dogs.

New pets may also take longer to learn obedience. If you've ever heard the saying, "You can't teach an old dog new tricks," you'll understand. Learning where she should go when she needs to go outside is something a dog must learn over time.

Old Shirt for Sleeping

One way to help your new adopted pet get used to you is to give him an old shirt of yours. Make sure to wear the shirt for at least 8 hours before handing it over. This can be a sleeping bed for your new pet. Your scent will quickly become the one he knows the best.

Walk Around the Neighborhood

Adopted pets need to become familiar with their surroundings. It helps them find their way home in case they get lost. These animals tend to be moved around a lot. To get your dog or cat used to her surroundings, take frequent walks. Let her stop and smell whenever she wishes.

Implement Consistency

When you adopt a new pet, you may be adopting bad habits as well. Some animals are allowed to chew on furniture and eliminate in the house. When you introduce a new pet into your life, make sure to be consistent with your rules right from the beginning to minimize old tendencies. Consistency is the only way your new dog will learn.

There is nothing more loving than adopting a dog or cat from a pet shelter. There are, however, certain things you must be educated about before you make that purchase. While you can skip the puppy stage, you cannot skip other undesirable pet steps. Loving patience is the best thing you can provide for your adopted pet. Over time, your adopted pet will become an important and essential part of your family.