Adopting a Rescue Animal
Our dogs and cats are not free. They are all health checked by a vet and come desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. A fee is usually charged when adopting, depending on the circumstances. Cats are from $60, kittens from $160 and dogs from $250. 100% of the money goes straight back into South Gippsland Animal Aid to go towards vet work, feeding, flea treatment and any other vet issues that may arise.
Tips to help make your rescue dog’s transition easier for all
Start day one by teaching your dog appropriate behaviour through consistent, positive reinforcement. Dogs thrive on routine, so orient your new companion to your schedule. As long as you are consistent and provide leadership, the dog will adjust.
Remember, your dog will be excited and anxious about his new home. Don't be surprised at panting and pacing, housetraining accidents, excessive drinking or chewing, or gastric upset. In addition, any dog, especially a male who was not neutered early, is likely to mark new territory - especially if other pets have lived there.
Tell every member of your family to resist the temptation to overwhelm a new dog. Give him some time and space to get settled.
Your new dog will look to you for guidance and it is up to you to teach them good and acceptable behaviour, bearing in mind that in their previous home they may have been allowed to act in a way that is not acceptable in your home. Give him/her time to adjust to and understand the rules and schedule of your household.
All dogs will act different ways in the first few days while they are getting used to their new home. It is up to you to show them that they are in a safe environment and you need to be patient and understanding. The dog will relax as he/she realises that you are not going to abandon them and then the bonding period will begin.
Your new dog will be unsure of his/her new environment and even if house trained will most probably have accidents inside while getting used to the new home and also to mark territory. To minimise accidents inside, be observant of your dog’s behaviour until you get to know when they want to go outside. Take them outside for toilet breaks at regular intervals and always after eating.
Be prepared to persevere. Don’t expect your new pet to be perfect on day one; settling in can take some days but patience and love can work wonders!
Our dogs and cats are not free. They are all health checked by a vet and come desexed, vaccinated and microchipped. A fee is usually charged when adopting, depending on the circumstances. Cats are from $60, kittens from $160 and dogs from $250. 100% of the money goes straight back into South Gippsland Animal Aid to go towards vet work, feeding, flea treatment and any other vet issues that may arise.
Tips to help make your rescue dog’s transition easier for all
Start day one by teaching your dog appropriate behaviour through consistent, positive reinforcement. Dogs thrive on routine, so orient your new companion to your schedule. As long as you are consistent and provide leadership, the dog will adjust.
Remember, your dog will be excited and anxious about his new home. Don't be surprised at panting and pacing, housetraining accidents, excessive drinking or chewing, or gastric upset. In addition, any dog, especially a male who was not neutered early, is likely to mark new territory - especially if other pets have lived there.
Tell every member of your family to resist the temptation to overwhelm a new dog. Give him some time and space to get settled.
Your new dog will look to you for guidance and it is up to you to teach them good and acceptable behaviour, bearing in mind that in their previous home they may have been allowed to act in a way that is not acceptable in your home. Give him/her time to adjust to and understand the rules and schedule of your household.
All dogs will act different ways in the first few days while they are getting used to their new home. It is up to you to show them that they are in a safe environment and you need to be patient and understanding. The dog will relax as he/she realises that you are not going to abandon them and then the bonding period will begin.
Your new dog will be unsure of his/her new environment and even if house trained will most probably have accidents inside while getting used to the new home and also to mark territory. To minimise accidents inside, be observant of your dog’s behaviour until you get to know when they want to go outside. Take them outside for toilet breaks at regular intervals and always after eating.
Be prepared to persevere. Don’t expect your new pet to be perfect on day one; settling in can take some days but patience and love can work wonders!
