Just like us, pets need order and leadership. They seek order, which you must provide. Your pet needs to know that you are the friend and that you have a set of rules to live. Being friendly makes the transition from the shelter to your home more comfortable, faster, and more rewarding.
To help set order, hold a family meeting to create rules about caring for the dog. Purchase your essential pet care items such as ID tags, a collar, and a leash, food and water bowls, toys, home and bedding, and necessary grooming tools.
Just before you bring your new pet home, take it for a walk to tire out a little. For starters, when the new pet arrives at home, limit your pet to one room or area. Most mammals instinctively like to den, and a crate or cage makes the ideal place for your pet to sleep and get away from everything else.
Next is to plan a trip to the Veterinarian. You can read more about finding a Vet using our "Animal Hospital Locator." Your visit to an animal hospital will make sure your dog is healthy and will not transmit any diseases to other dogs. Welcome, Home Your Newly Adopted Friend.