Recent Christmas commercials show that puppies are popular for family presents, but I strongly encourage adoption or fostering. Puppy mills, backyard breeders, and scams are growing more common, as are designer breeds linked to greed and rising inhumane treatment.
Many parents choose to gift their families a puppy without realizing this decision may inadvertently contribute to the puppy mill industry.
Adopt or rescue your next pet – that in itself is the biggest Christmas present itself. Take for example Wyatt, who’s now at a foster home waiting for his forever home. He’s great with kids, other dogs and cats, and would be a welcome addition to a family for this upcoming holiday.
Wyatt is vaccinated, microchipped, neutered, and a very happy well-balanced dog.
A common issue I’ve encountered in the ER is people lacking patience and planning when bringing a pet home. While instant gratification is common in society, it doesn’t apply to raising pets or creating a balanced home.
In animal care, the “Rule of 3” or “333 rule” is often used when introducing adopted or rescue dogs to a new household.
There are many resources on the internet that describe this, but it takes roughly 3 days for the shock to wear off of moving into a different environment, 3 weeks for the comfort zone to take effect, and 3 months to understand that this is where home is at.
The 333 is a great way to ground your expectations. Never give up or push a newly adopted dog, you have no idea what they went through. The only thing that matters is love and kindness.
Each dog has its own individuality, and sometimes it takes a while before their true character becomes evident – but if you use the guidelines and positive training techniques you too will have a happy dog household.
– Charlotte