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Adopting a New Pet3-3-3 RULE
3 days
Your new pet may be overwhelmed with their new surroundings. They may not be comfortable enough to be “themselves”. Many animals don’t eat when they are stressed, so don’t be worried if they doesn’t eat for the first few days. They may shut down and want to curl up in their crate or under the table. Or they may be the opposite and test you to see what they can get away with, kind of like a teenager.
3 weeks
They are starting to settle in, beginning to feel more comfortable and realizing this really could be their forever home. They have figured out their environment and are getting into the routine that you have set. They will start to show you their real personality. Behavior issues may start showing, so this is your time to be a strong leader and teach them what is right and wrong.
3 months
Your pet is now completely comfortable in their new home. You have built trust and a true bond with your new pet, which gives them a complete sense of security with you. They are set in a routine and will come to expect dinner at the usual time.
Evaluating Some Questions
Before adopting a pet ask yourself some questions:
Is the whole family in agreement to adopt a new pet?
Do I have the time to help the new pet adjust?
Will I have time after that to spend with the animal?
Can I care for this animal financially for the rest of his life?
Does anyone have any allergies?
Will I still want this pet even if we move, have a baby, get a different job, etc?
Preparing the Home
Be sure you are ready for the new pet to come home. Make sure you have toys, bedding, food, and anything else you may need. Create a quiet environment for the new pet to get comfortable and have a safe space they can retreat to if they need some alone time.
Children
Do not let children hug, kiss, or lay on the new pet. They are stressed and possibly scared. This will only cause the animal to bite out of fear. That is not fair to the animal or the child.
3-3-3 Rule
3 days to decompress
3 weeks to learn routine
3 months to start to feel at home