For those of us looking to take in a pet, we're told 'adopt, don't shop', but giving a loving home to a dog in need is about more than a fluffy bed, a collar of their own and plenty of treats.
As Suzi Walsh, Dog Behaviourist, explained on Today with David McCullagh, taking in a rescue requires a well-thought out strategy to make sure they - and you! - settle into their new life comfortably and safely. For the full interview, click above.
Before sharing her advice, Walsh stressed that there is "no correlation" between dogs from a shelter and having more behavioural problems.
"The current situation we have in Ireland, we don't have a great breeding plan or breeding profile in our country, so actually in fact it's just as risky to get a purchased dog, unless you're really really knowledgeable and you know what you're doing and you're going to really credible sources", she said, adding that many shelters do incredible work settling the dogs before they're adopted to help with the transition.
There are some basic preparations you can make before adopting a dog to help more: moving valuables to places the dogs won't reach, avoiding having too many guests over at first and keeping the home peaceful.
Walsh also suggests bringing the dog into the home "early in the morning", make sure they haven't eaten right before getting in the car for the journey home and that they have the "entire day to get settled and more comfortable in your home environment".
For the first 72 hours, keep the environment relaxed and peaceful, Walsh added, rather than focusing on getting out for lots or walks or starting on obedience training. "Just get used to them and don't put any pressure on the dog."
Walsh noted that there can be a well-meaning urge to "compensate" for what the dog might not have had in a shelter, which can lead to creating a sense of overwhelm for them and yourself. "You're thinking about the mentality of a two- or three-year-old child and it's very easy to overstimulate a two- or three-year-old child, so the same goes for a dog."
If the settling in period feels challenging at first, Walsh said there can be a moment of "panic", when the new owners can doubt themselves or be consumed with worry about the dog settling in.
"But always remember, though, the rescue or shelter or people like me [are] on the phone for some advice and some help, and I never mind giving advice or help to someone who's just had a dog arrive into their new home. I certainly won't be going out to see them in the first few days because they do need time to settle in, but the expectation and reality can sometimes be a little bit challenging for people."
Rather than focusing on obedience training, Walsh suggests working on house training and on getting the dog to settle.
"We're all very good at pointing out all the things that dogs do wrong and correcting for all the naughty things, which is fine, or giving them attention when they look for it, which is also fine. But what we tend to lack is giving them attention when they're being really, really calm."
She suggests rewarding your pet when you see them truly relaxed, lying down, not looking at you or seeking attention. "Mark that behaviour."
Triggers to avoid include leaving the dog alone too quickly to bringing them around other dogs or new people too soon, and Walsh noted that different breeds can have different triggers or challenges. Introduce the dog to new experiences slowly, she said.
Separation anxiety can be especially challenging for dogs and their owners. Walsh suggests transitioning them into it slowly.
Walsh also noted that medical problems can be a cause of separation anxiety, saying: "About 83% of behaviour problems are caused by undiagnosed discomfort in animals." So be sure to get your new dog very closely checked by your vet.
For more tips, listen back to the full interview above.
