So You Want to Adopt a Dog...

To start of, I'm just going to give you a little background on my process of adoption and the struggles I had to face at the start and what I did to help/fix them.

I adopted my dog from Romania through a charity called "Angel Watch Rescue." They're a charity that rescue dogs of all ages from shelters in Romania where the dogs aren't fed, groomed, walked and live in dire conditions.

When you adopt from Angel Watch, they microchip, vaccinate, and spay the dogs ready from rehoming. There is a fee but this depends on the dog you wish to take home.

Dakota (or Dee for short) was a very timid girl when we got her, shy of every noise and often cowered when you went to stroke her. Fast forward one year and she's in a much better place than she was and loves going out and about.

So here are my tips for adoption so you can make sure you're ready for this commitment:

1. Time

All dogs are very different, especially when they've come from abusive backgrounds or backgrounds where they're not wanted or can't be looked after anymore. You will have to put a lot of time and dedication into your new friend. Once they arrive home with you, they may not want to play or run around just yet, they're more likely to go around the house to figure things out. This isn't because of you or the fact that they're not a playful dog, its just because they're in a new place which can be a very scary thing.

Make sure you hand feed in the beginning to gain trust between you and the dog. This is a good way to show you're not going to hurt them and that you simply want to be there for them. With adopted dogs, it can take around 6 months to 1 year for them to fully come out of their shell.

On a side note, remember not to force your new dog to do things they clearly don't want to with the exception of vets etc. If they don't want to go for a walk, let them out in the garden instead.

2. Classes

When we were in the early stages of having Dee, she displayed signs of aggression by showing her teeth. With this it can be scary and many families will want to give the dog back to the rescue, but wait before you make that decision because this behaviour can be changed with dedication and classes!

I highly recommend "Tellington Ttouch." They do a variety of workshops and classes in which they teach dog behaviours, how to handle your dog and practicing the Ttouch. This is great for dogs with behaviours of aggression or nervousness. The Ttouch a special series of hand massage movements which you practice on your dogs pressure points to relieve stress and anxiety. Believe me, it's worth the time and money!

You can also go to obedience classes too if you new friend isn't so good in the listening department.

3. Accessories

This may not seem that important but believe me, things from a harness to body wraps can make a huge difference!

This harness is great for dogs that pull or twirl as it clips on to the back of front of the harness. You can place this harness on without putting it over the dog's head, which can cause stress to some dogs.

This body wrap can help improve body awareness and coordination. It can really help calm excited dogs or increase confidence in timid dogs. I'd recommend using it for visits to the vet, car travel, and noise sensitivity like fireworks. Also an excellent starting place for dogs that are fearful of containment, wearing a car/walking harness or coat.

I have this harness for Dee for when we're out and about or in the park. When she's around new dogs, especially jumpy dogs, she can growl, try and run, or wet herself. This harness lets other dog owners know that she's nervous and when put under pressure, can be unpredictable in sense of the above. Very useful for both parties!

4. Bonding Time

Dee has some issues when it comes to men, in the sense that she gets nervous due to her past. When dealing with this sort of behaviour, make sure you take the time to spend 1:1 time with your new friend to build up trust on both sides. I recommend walks, giving treats, hand feeding, and even sitting watching TV in the same room together.

I take Dee for long walks on a Sunday, followed by a delicious pigs ear (her not me!). We both look forward to it and it builds up a routine that both of you get in to.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hopefully this information helps you on your decision to adopt a dog. It's a wonderful feeling and you really do make a friend for life as well as giving them an amazing one they never had. It's important to know that it takes time for them to play properly and come out of their shell, but once they do, the fun never stops!

Adopt don't shop!