make a difference in your new dog's life
Regardless of your experience with dogs, whether you've had 1 companion or 20, bringing a rescue into your home can be a joyful, entertaining, but sometimes challenging endeavor. It's up to you to help them learn how to live harmoniously within your family.
Rise to the challenge and make sure your new rescue successfully settles in with their new family.
Helpful Guides for the First Few Weeks
Guidance for Adopters of Rescue Dogs
These guidelines offer suggestions for picking up your dog off transport, introducing your new dog to your current dog and/or cat, and more.
Decompress for Success
Adopting a new dog is all about changes for both of you. Use this guide to build a foundation for a lasting relationship.
Find a Trainer
Help your new dog navigate his surroundings by attending a class or consulting a trainer. The Vermont Professional Dog Trainers Network is a community of certified professional dog trainers committed to using positive reinforcement methods. They list a number of excellent trainers, dog camp providers, veterinarians, and dog groomers, as well as the only two certified dog behavior consultants in the state. Find them at http://www.vtdogtrainers.com/
Additional Resources
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In addition to the items discussed in the video, be sure to purchase an ID tag with your dog's name and your address and phone number.
Understanding what your new rescue dog has been through can help you make his/her transition easier.
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Bringing Your New Dog Home (Part 1)
Follow these easy and fun steps when introducing your new dog to your home. The time you spend together will strengthen your bond and ensure that your dog understands what you want from her.
Bringing Your New Dog Home (Part 2)
From entering your home to identifying potty space, these simple guidelines will help you create a plan for a smooth transition.
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What to expect with your new dog (Part 1)
Commitment and exercise are important for a happy, healthy dog. This video is for active people and nonactive people alike.
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Teach your puppy from the get-go that she will get rewarded for being a "good student." Puppy training can be fun and the payoff will be huge. Follow along with Stonnie Dennis as he teaches the basics.
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Your new dog doesn’t come to you with a set of perfect behaviors in place. A little attention to leadership in the beginning will strengthen your bond and result in a happy and well-behaved dog.
The top experts give you their tips for training. Get a jump on training with these Top 10 Training Tips.
We recommend crating your dog until you are certain that he/she understands the "rules of the house." Learn how to size a crate, why crating is beneficial, and more.
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