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What You Need to Know Before Adopting a Shelter Dog

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There are so many reasons to adopt a shelter dog. For starters, they’re just innocent pups looking for a loving home. Secondly, they’ll bring so much joy into your life. Yet, as exciting as the process is, there are many things you should consider before you bring a shelter dog home. This article will explain what you need to know before adopting a shelter dog. Soon, you’ll have a furry friend for life.

What Equipment Do You Need?

You should never bring a shelter dog home without preparing. You must make sure you have the right equipment before you adopt any animal. Check with professionals to see what type of equipment you’ll need before you bring Fido home. Purchase a crate as well as a food and water bowl. It’s also essential that your dog has its own bed—you two need your own space. Your pup deserves their own area just as much as you do. You don’t need to spend every minute of the day with your furry friend to prove you love them. So please, buy a bed, treats, and toys so your puppy feels more comfortable the minute they get home.

Is Your Home Dog-Proof?

You must ensure that your house is dog-friendly before you bring one home from the shelter. Pups will try their hardest to get into everything. So please, consider dog-proofing your place before you head out to the shelter. Keep all bags and purses out of your furry friend’s reach, so they don’t get hold of your belongings. Also, consider installing pup-friendly window treatments. Curtains are a nightmare to dog owners because they hang low to the ground—drapes can appear as a fun chew toy. So please, think about putting shutters or blinds in your place. Dogs won’t be able to reach them, so they’ll stay free of chew marks.

Are You Ready for the Commitment?

Think about how much of a commitment getting a dog is before you run to the nearest shelter. You must make sure you’re emotionally ready to become a dog owner before you get one. Shelter dogs need extra love and attention. Some of these animals lived in abusive homes and have gone through things no creature should ever have to. You must prepare to reassure the puppy as much as possible. Let them know you love them and you’re happy that they’re becoming a member of your family. Also, try to be as patient as possible. Pups who come from a shelter may be extremely anxious in their new surroundings. You might be in for some long nights full of howls and cries. However, their anxieties will pass quickly. Soon enough, the two of you will be best buds.

This resourceful guide tells you what you need to know before adopting a shelter dog. Pups who come from shelters deserve a loving home, as well. Some people are anxious about bringing dogs home from shelters. Yet, there’s no reason to be nervous. As long as you prepare and give Fido lots of love and attention, there’s no reason you can’t create a lifetime bond.