Rehoming a Dog – a home visit to ensure your rescue dog settles in.

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Adopting a rescue dog can be one of the most fulfilling experiences for any animal lover. You’re giving a dog in need a second chance at a happy life and, in return, gaining a loyal and loving companion. However, it’s important to remember that integrating a rescue dog into your home can be a delicate process. Many well-intentioned owners unintentionally increase their new dog’s stress levels by making common mistakes during the transition period. Understanding these potential challenges can help you create a more welcoming and supportive environment for your new furry friend.

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Understanding Your Rescue Dog’s Background

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Rescue dogs often come from backgrounds that are filled with uncertainty. Whether they’ve experienced neglect, abuse, or multiple relocations, many of these dogs have learned to be wary of new situations. Even dogs with relatively stable pasts can find the rehoming process overwhelming. Everything in their new environment—sights, sounds, and smells—can be unfamiliar and potentially stressful. As a new owner, it’s crucial to recognize that your dog may need time and space to adjust.

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Common Mistakes That Can Increase Stress

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• Lack of Routine and Structure: Rescue dogs thrive on routine and predictability. When they can anticipate what will happen next, it helps them feel secure. Unfortunately, many new owners do not establish a clear routine from the beginning. This lack of structure can leave the dog feeling confused and anxious, further complicating their adjustment.​

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• Overwhelming Socialisation: Understandably, new owners often want to introduce their rescue dog to family, friends, and other pets as soon as possible. However, this can be overwhelming for a dog that is still trying to adjust to a new environment. Too much socialization too quickly can lead to stress and fear-based reactions.

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• Ignoring Body Language: Dogs communicate primarily through body language, and rescue dogs may display subtle signs of stress that inexperienced owners might not recognize. Missing these cues can result in increased anxiety and, over time, may lead to behavioral issues.

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• Skipping Basic Training: Another common mistake is assuming that rescue dogs, particularly older ones, don’t need training. Whether due to a perceived lack of need or a desire to let the dog "settle in" first, skipping basic training can lead to confusion for both the dog and the owner. This can make it harder for the dog to understand what is expected of them, leading to unnecessary stress.

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The Importance of Rehoming Visits

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To help new owners and their dogs navigate the transition period, professional rehoming visits can be incredibly beneficial. During these visits, an experienced expert assesses the dog’s behavior, provides guidance on addressing any issues, and helps ensure the environment is conducive to the dog’s well-being.

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What Happens During a Rehoming Visit

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• Behavioural Assessment: The expert observes the dog in their new home to identify any signs of stress or discomfort.

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• Routine Guidance: They will discuss the importance of establishing a consistent routine that supports the dog’s needs.

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• Training and Support: While solutions will be provided during the visit, the main focus is on giving owners the knowledge and confidence to help their dog adjust.

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Di and Linda regularly work in conjunction with local rescue organisations and can give advice and guidance on giving your rescue the best re-start and techniques to help with any potential, or actual problems, that you may experience.