You must bring:

• A secure, properly fitted leash

• A well-fitted harness

Collars alone are not recommended, especially for nervous or fearful dogs.

Why is a harness required?

Many rescue dogs are unfamiliar with their surroundings and may startle easily. A harness provides extra security and reduces the risk of escape.

We recommend traveling directly home after pickup so your dog can rest, decompress, and begin adjusting to their new environment.

Short, calm bathroom walks are fine, but avoid long or busy walks at first. Focus on helping your dog feel safe before introducing new environments.

Decompression is a period where your dog adjusts to their new surroundings.

• Some dogs settle in quickly; others need more time.

• Keeping things calm, predictable, and quiet helps build trust and confidence. Try to keep: feeding times consistent, walk and potty times predictable, and sleep schedules stable.

  Helpful tips:

  • Keep TVs and music low

  • Avoid rearranging the house initially

  • Limit visitors

How long does decompression take?

There is no set timeline. Many adopters find the 3–3–3 guideline helpful:

• 3 days to decompress

• 3 weeks to learn routines

• 3 months to feel at home

This is a guideline, not a rule.

Yes! This is very common with rescue dogs.

• New sights, sounds, and routines can be stressful.

• Give your dog space, patience, and time to adjust at their own pace.

What should I do when I get home?

• Give your dog time to explore slowly

• Offer water

• Allow rest without pressure

• Avoid bathing or grooming immediately unless necessary

Temporary appetite changes can happen due to stress or environment changes.

• Monitor food intake, water consumption, and bathroom habits.

• Contact your veterinarian if concerns persist or worsen.

• Always supervise interactions.

• Teach children to be calm, gentle, and respectful.

• Make sure your dog has a quiet retreat space they can access at any time.

Why is supervision so important?

Dogs may feel threatened by:

• Sudden movements

• Loud noises

• Direct staring or hugging

Teaching respectful interaction protects both children and dogs.

Slow introductions are best.

• Introduce new pets gradually and calmly.

• Watch body language closely and avoid overwhelming situations.

Why should introductions be slow?

Rushing introductions can create fear or conflict. Slow introductions help build neutrality and trust.

Yes! Please ensure your dog’s microchip is registered with your current contact information as soon as possible.

Besides microchips, what else helps keep dogs safe?

• ID tags on collars

• Secure fencing

• Door and gate awareness

Join our adopter community on Facebook to connect with other adopters, share updates, and ask questions:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/608848576866705/

What if I feel overwhelmed?

This is normal. Rescue dogs are a journey, not an instant transformation. Reach out for support early — patience builds success.