Prepare for the pooch
Two among October's awareness campaigns go together: Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and Emotional Wellness Month. A successful dog adoption improves the emotional health of both parties; study after study proves that owning a pet reduces stress, improves physical health, and even lengthens life. Plus pooch gets more attention and space than a four-by-two cell.My son has worked at Kootenai Humane Society for almost two years. In that time he's learned a lot not only about dogs, but also people. Adopting a dog should be a wonderful thing, but too often simple and preventable mistakes lead to unhappy situations and sadly, unnecessary returns or runaways.
Unlike many other pets, a dog's brain is complex enough to have emotional reactions. Like people they need adjustment periods and a little patience any time they face major change, even a change intended for the better. A little preparation by the adoptive family can make a huge difference in the success of the transition for all.Tips from experts:
* Ask. Consult the kennel tech/employee who routinely works with the dogs. That's not any shelter employee; go back at a time when you can get help matching your desires with the dog's known personality. Looks and a friendly lick are not the chief criteria for a happy relationship. * Meet-and-greet. If you have other pets, ask for a meet-and-greet. Trained staff help introduce your pets to a potential new one in a controlled environment. This isn't just for dogs and cats; one successful KHS meet-and-greet was with a parrot.
* Timing. Don't go the first day planning to adopt. Consider a return trip to avoid impulsive decisions; get to know each other. Also plan the adoption when you have extra time to spend with the new pet at home, preferably for the first few days.* At home. Expect hyperactivity for a while; the jumping will subside eventually. Ignore/don't reward it, rather than punish. Exploratory behaviors such as chewing (say no and offer a chew toy), sniffing, and mouthing new things is normal.
* Feeding. Food stealing is normal. New dog doesn't yet know that you will regularly feed him; you're not the one he's used to relying on. Consider buying food he's used to from the shelter for the first week or two. Too many changes at once increase stress and digestive problems.* Accidents. Count on them, even from housetrained animals - it's a new environment. They will subside in time, sooner if you walk the dog on a consistent schedule (more often at the beginning, especially after feeding). Consistent locations for relieving also help. Praise when he does it right is more effective than punishment when he doesn't.
* Training. The first few days are critical - a balance of understanding and consistency. Basic training books are plentiful at bookstores and libraries; prepare ahead.Dogs need structure. Do not give her the run of the house and do not say yes to something you have said or will say no to later. Correct, praise, and redirect. Choke collars are not recommended even with careful use, and can be dangerous. Slip leashes are better.Poor or improper training is the chief reason for failed adoptions. That's a people problem for which the dogs sadly pay.
KHS has a plethora of eager new pets. Discounts may be available for seniors over 55 and KHS has October specials, such as spay/neuter discounts (for existing pets) and $25 adult cat adoptions. To visit, volunteer, or donate call (208) 772-4019 or see their wish list at www.kootenaihumanesociety.com.
Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. E-mail sholehjo@hotmail.com