Dog Momma highly recommends getting dogs from people who love dogs enough to keep them alive ’til Mr. or Ms. Right comes along. Such people and organizations go by many names: rescue, shelter, humane society, SPCA, pound. They have dogs of all ages available for adoption, even puppies. (Going to a reputable breeder is another option if you have your heart set on a puppy.)
Adopting a dog is the right thing to do on many levels. It’s right for you, it’s right for the dog, it’s right for society. A staggering number of dogs are put down every day. Adopt one such dog, and you have saved a life.
Rio’s first day with us
The Joy of Discovery
Our Rio, a rescue dog, was about three years old when he came to us. How could he have lived this long without knowing carpet? stairs? a couch? TOYS? bones? children? the aromas of the kitchen? the wide expanse of a public park? How sad that he had to wait this long to experience these firsts. But what a joy to open these doors for him!
Earning Trust
A puppy is like clay in your hands, ready for you to mold him into a happy and well-mannered adult. An adult dog with a past may have emotional “baggage.” You may have to spend the first six months just teaching him to trust you.
A training regimen can get you that trust. I started taking Rio out, just the two of us, while the rest of the house slept another hour. The agenda was basic training: walk by my side, sit when I stop, stay until I release you, come when I call.
Rio was not used to this discipline. At first he pitched a fit over everything. I had to stand my ground, hard as it was for me to be firm when I really just wanted to coddle my new baby. However, after only a few days, Rio understood the routine—and clearly loved it. He knew where he fit in the family because he understood that I was the pack leader. Our whole house relaxed as a result. Everyone started to get along better.
A bit giddy…just rescued her first dog 🙂
Give Yourself a Pat on the Back
As you grow to love your pet, you’ll see many reasons why adopting a rescue dog was the right decision. You’re giving a deprived animal a happy and healthy life. People who have adopted rescues tend to be proud of themselves, and rightly so.
Just to bring the point home, go back after a few months to where your beloved dog came from. (Don’t take him along.) It will blow your mind. The very best of rescue organizations and shelters can’t provide a tenth of the healthy exercise and TLC your dog enjoys every day. Reward yourself for the effort you have made and the life you have saved. You are a good person!
