Helpful tips on adopting a dog

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Christmas is fast approaching and some parents might be thinking of getting a puppy as a gift for their children.

It is always a big decision, welcoming a new dog into the family.

The responsibility is tremendous, the atmosphere at home shifts and it can often be incredibly overwhelming.

The Garden Route SPCA is often inundated with complaints about neglected pets at Christmas and even worse, after the festive season, unwanted pets, given as gifts, are taken to the SPCA.

The dogs are either unsuitable for the family or the home is unsuitable. The SPCA then has the task of rehoming the unwanted dogs.

When bringing home a rescue dog, there are often more challenges that come with giving a dog a second chance at a happy life.

Popular South African radio personality, Martin Bester, of Jacaranda FM, has three adopted dogs.

He says: "My dogs have changed my life for the better."

Martin shares: "Adopting a dog certainly has its challenges, but the opportunity to give that animal a second chance at a happy life is one of the most extraordinary things a person can do."

If you're planning on bringing home a dog, here are Martin's top tips on how best to welcome a rescue into your home

Do your research

"Research is certainly the first step to adopting any dog.

"It's important to learn about the qualities and traits of that breed and determine if it's a suitable breed for you and your home."

Martin explains that some breeds are really big or really small; some breeds require more exercise; some are more difficult to maintain physically and require different levels of grooming.

"If you already have a pet, you need to ensure your new addition is comfortable with other pets as well," Martin adds. The shelter you are adopting from should conduct the necessary home checks before your new addition comes home.

Prepare your home

"It's always important to prepare your home before your new dog comes home," Martin shares.

"Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your rescue is so important. In addition to basics like food, water bowls, a collar, get your dog a new bed to sleep in, some toys and treats."

Martin adds that it's also important to unpack which family member will be responsible for feeding, walking and training and, if there are any other animals in the home, make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations.

"Your new dog will be extremely inquisitive and probably unsure when it arrives at its new home," Martin notes.

"Show them around the house. Showing the dog where their food, bed, and toys will be will help make them feel at home quicker.

"The dog should also have enough time to explore the garden. Remember, rescues usually have a traumatic past and making them feel comfortable is an important step in the adoption process."

Introducing your pup to the family

Coming into a new home is certainly an overwhelming experience for any pet, especially a rescue.

On top of being in a new space, meeting new people and new dogs can get a little much which is why it is recommended that you introduce your rescue to the rest of the family slowly.

"Conducting a 'meet-and-greet' for your new pup is so important and it's vital to spend some time to do this introduction properly," the Jacaranda FM presenter shares.

"Bring your family members and other dogs to meet your rescue one by one, preferably outside. Make sure other dogs can see how comfortable you are with the new arrival and at the same time reassure them of their place in the house."

Start training immediately

Training is so important when it comes to bringing a new dog into a home.

"Puppy training is a great way to ensure that your dog learns basic commands, socialises and builds a connection with you," Martin says.

"However, rescues often come home a little older and, sometimes, one needs to break through barriers built up by the dog as a result of its past trauma. Training both helps your new dog settle into their new environment and rewards behaviours you want."

A trip to the vet is mandatory

Within the first week of bringing home your new adopted pooch, plan a check-up with your vet to ensure that your dog is happy, healthy and up to date with all of their vaccinations.

"While the animal shelter would have made sure that the dog is looked after while in their care, visiting a vet in the first week is important to ensure that your new dog is healthy."

Consider adopting an adult dog

While puppies are adorable, Martin suggests that, if you're adopting, bringing home a slightly older dog will help ease the transition process for you. "It's a misconception that older dogs have their own issues or won't integrate into your new home with ease," Martin notes.

"Older dogs are less likely to mess in the house or chew your furniture. The truth is, many older dogs are surrendered due to no fault of their own."

Martin and his three dogs.