It is important to allow the cat access to a safe haven where the or she can get away from the dog, such as a tall cat tree or shelf. If you are introducing a dog to a dog, try to have the meeting on neutral territory, such as the sidewalk in front of your house or a nearby park. If there is more than one person in your household, discuss your pet rules before the pet comes home. Decide who will be in charge of feeding, cleaning, walking the dog, changing the litter box, and other pet care needs. It is also important to decide on training issues, such as whether or not the dog will be allowed on the couch.
Nothing is more confusing to a dog than getting mixed signals.
If you are bringing a dog home, schedule your time with the new dog so that you can make small entries and exits throughout the first few days, slowly increasing the amount of time that you are gone. Do NOT over-emotionalize your greetings and exits, as this can cause the dog a great deal of stress and anxiety. Your comings and goings should be calm and quiet, so that your dog realizes that your leaving is not a big deal. Doing this will go a long way toward helping your dog to not develop separation anxiety, a behavioral problem that is common with many rescue dogs. Please indicate if you are under the age of 18.