October 4th is a special day for 100 California dogs. Dogs that were to be euthanized simply because there was overcrowding in the shelters, will find a permanent, loving home in Vancouver.
Just one of many successful rescue stories – Finn!
Susan Patterson from ‘Thank DOG I Am Out,’ made it her mission to join forces with California’s ‘Wings of Rescue,’ in an attempt to partner these adoptable rescue dogs with loving homes here in British Columbia.
With the help of volunteer pilots, devoted dog lovers, and on the ground volunteer support, this has been a successful endeavour in the past. Together they continue to organize permanent homes for each of these dogs and puppies, get vaccinations, prepare for their trip from California shelters to Bellingham airport, and help ease them into their new BC homes.
Whether you are one of the chosen 100 for Saturday’s dawggy-fest or will eventually be bringing a furry friend home, you may need a bit of guidance. Susan was kind enough to let us in on some of her expert advice on how to introduce your new dog into the family.
How to Introduce Your New Dog into the Family
1) Screening Process
Screening Process Disclosing information, such as if there are other animals in the house, any children, lifestyle etc. is very important. This allows the rescue agency to place you with the appropriate dog.
2) Ask For Assistance
“Thank DOG I am Out,” says Annie!
Ask for assistance if need be, with regards to introducing your new dog into the home. This can be a difficult task for many, and having a good first introduction is crucial for a successful one.
3) Introduction With Other Dogs
Introduction with other dogs needs to be in neutral territories. Best to do a few “walk by each other” with dogs on leash, starting at about 5′ apart. Let the dogs smell each other, look and sense the experience. After that has gone well, we suggest just standing around, ignore the dogs, and just chat, let the dogs get closer to each other, sniff, etc. It is best to keep the humans standing, stay high up. Keep human energy at a neutral as well, no squealing or excitable sounds.
ALL toys, food bowls, bones, beds, etc must be lifted off the floor – again, staying neutral.
4) Feed the Dogs in Separate Rooms
Li’l Bentley so happy to have found a home!
Feed the dogs in separate rooms until food guarding is not an issue.
Keep a Normal Routine
Keep a normal routine, as it will make it easier for the new dog to adjust and it keeps a certain level of normalcy for everyone else.
Interested in adopting one of these furballs? Check out Thank DOG I Am Out’s website.
Check out their Facebook page!
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