HOW TO HELP YOUR ADOPTED DOG ACCLIMATE
The 3-3-3 Rule If you’re ready to add a canine friend to your household, you may be considering adopting from a shelter. It can be gratifying to give an animal a new lease on life and a loving forever home, but adopting from a shelter also comes with its own set of challenges! You’ll probably have limited information about your pet’s history with people and other animals, and it may or may not have received any training. Many dogs also come with their own set of bad habits or fears from previous life experiences. While it’s exciting to bring a pup into your home, it’s also important to remember that it’s a major transition for the dog. Having the right expectations, plenty of patience, and a positive attitude will help ease the transition for you and your new four-pawed pal. Following the 3-3-3 rule will help ensure you’re on track in the early days, weeks, and months after adopting.
In the first three days … Your dog may be feeling overwhelmed, nervous, and may exhibit some behaviors to test the boundaries of their new situation. As a result of being stressed, they may not eat or drink much and may not be very social. You should keep things quiet and calm and be patient while your pup settles into their new space. Make sure you have a bed, crate, or area where your dog can retreat and feel safe. Create a daily schedule for walks, mealtime, playtime, and rest. In the first three weeks … Your dog will start to settle in and feel more comfortable in its new environment. The smells of the house, yard, and neighborhood will be familiar, and you’ll both be getting into your new routine together. While you may see some behavior issues or boundary-testing, your pup
will probably start to show more personality and affection as it feels more comfortable.
You should continue your established routine, give positive reinforcement for good behavior, and enforce boundaries when necessary. In the first three months ... Your dog will become completely comfortable in its new home. You’ve put in the time, routine, and treats to build trust and a bond together. Your dog should be eating normally, exhibit ease while at home, and hopefully, be responding well to training! If you give your adopted animal the right time and environment to adjust, you will have a lifetime of love and fun together!
Your Dog’s Favorite Sliders Inspired by RachaelRayMag.com
Clients Spreading the Word Thanks so much to these clients who referred new patients to us last month:
While you enjoy your favorite grilled meals this Memorial Day weekend, don’t forget about the dogs!
Myles Roberts Sara Zuidema Kathy Ladner Mary Day Nick Ladoge Carol Nations Julie Bennett
INGREDIENTS
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 lb ground lamb or chicken
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling Small dinner rolls (optional)
1/2 cup cooked rice 1/4 cup plain yogurt 1/2 tsp ground cumin
DIRECTIONS
1. In a bowl, combine meat, rice, yogurt, cumin, and salt. 2. Form the mixture into 4 patties. 3. Drizzle each side of patties with extra-virgin olive oil. 4. In a heated nonstick skillet, cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side. 5. Place cooked sliders on a small roll for an extra treat, then chop the sliders into bite-size pieces for easy consumption!
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