Adopting A Senior Dog: Helping Fido Adjust

November is Adopt A Senior Pet Month! We love seeing older dogs get second chances. However, going to a new home is a huge change for Fido, and one that can be quite stressful. A San Antonio, TX vet discusses helping your canine buddy get settled in this article.

Take Him For A Walk

Before bringing Fido inside, take him for a walk around the block. You don’t have to go far: you just want to give your furry friend a chance to get an idea of the lay of the land. This will also help him begin to process the fact that he’s been adopted.

Provide A Safe Space

Put Fido’s bed in a quiet spot at first, and just let him have the time and space he needs to relax and settle in. Don’t be surprised if he sleeps a lot in the beginning: that’s normal. It usually takes dogs three days to get used to a new place, three weeks to settle in, and three months to really feel at home.

Offer Doggy Luxuries

Fido may be nervous and unsettled at first. Do everything you can to make him feel loved and safe. That means offering things like soft beds, fun toys, and, of course, treats. Sticking to a set routine can also help.

Treats

Speaking of treats, you’ll definitely want plenty of those on hand. Snacks can go a long way towards helping Fido feel safe and cared for, and also great for bonding. Don’t go overboard, though, as overfeeding your pooch could cause him to become obese. Stick to small snacks.

Visit The Vet

One of the first things you’ll want to do is take your canine pal to meet his new doctor. A thorough exam is definitely in order. This is also a perfect time to get some specific advice on things like diet and exercise needs, supplements, grooming tips, and other aspects of your pup’s care.

Keep Things Positive

Older dogs are often super cute. However, you don’t want to force attention on your canine companion. Trust, friendship, and affection all have to be earned. Talk to your new buddy, play with him, and just spend time with him. You may find that Fido’s sweet expression and soulful eyes melt your heart!

As your San Antonio, TX pet clinic, we’re here to help. Call us anytime.