Animal Shelter

Adopting a dog is a wonderful way to bring joy into a home, and adoption may very well save a dog’s life. According to the Humane Society of the United States, between six and eight million pets end up in shelters each year and half of those are unlikely to be adopted.
Adjusting to life with a dog is not always easy. Owning a dog is a big responsibility, the scope of which first-time dog owners may not fully grasp until their furry friends arrive at their new homes for the first time. But there are ways to make the transition to dog ownership go smoothly, which should afford new dog owners more time to spend with the newest additions to their families.
Prepare your home before Fido’s arrival. While many dogs adjust quickly to their new homes, preparing the home before dogs arrive can make that adjustment even easier for the dog. Dogs might be nervous and under significant stress when entering a new home for the first time, so prepare the area where the dog will be spending most of its time. Remove items that curious pooches may break, and don’t forget to move household cleaners from floor cabinets to high shelves so dogs won’t ingest anything harmful. Have a crate ready for the dog if you plan to crate him or her so you don’t have to introduce it after the pet has already grown acclimated to its new living arrangements.
Keep things calm. A hectic household might make it difficult for the dog to adjust, so remain calm and encourage other residents to do the same until the dog seems comfortable in its new surroundings. If necessary, limit visitors to your home and steer clear of the dog park or other places where the dog might become overexcited. As the dog grows more comfortable, you can then invite one or two friends over at a time and start taking the dog to the park as well.
Shelter dogs often make great companion animals, and owners should afford their new dogs ample time to adjust to their new home.