Second Chance: Three Days, Three Weeks, Three Months + Upcoming Concert!

Second Chance: Three Days, Three Weeks, Three Months + Upcoming Concert!

For 30+ years, the Animal Resource Center and Shops of Second Chance Humane Society have been serving Ouray, San Miguel, and Montrose Counties. Adoption hours are from Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. View shelter pets and services online at www.secondchancehumane.org.

“Connecting Pets, People, and Community While Saving Lives.”

View shelter pets and services online: www.adoptmountainpets.org.

Please reach out to our dog den staff with any questions about these deserving dogs. animalcare@secondchancehumane.org

Donate here or mail to: PO Box 2096, Ridgway, CO, 81432. 

Go here for more options from Second Chance.

How long does it take to know if a dog or cat is the right fit for your home?

Adopting a rescue dog or cat is an exciting event. You decided to add a new family member, you fell in love, and now it’s time to bring him or her home. Sometimes it goes smoothly, but there will likely be an adjustment for you and the animal.

There are some guidelines for what to expect in the first three days, three weeks, even three months after adoption. Understanding what your pet might be going through might help you feel more patient and optimistic. Any dog or cat needs time to adapt and adjust. In most cases, he or she will embrace their new life and be a wonderful companion for your family.

The first three days are the scariest time (and you might think, “What have I done?!”). You both may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what is happening. He or she are not themselves and might be shut down. Maybe they hide under furniture, in a crate, or another safe area. They may sleep a lot, not eat or drink, have bathroom accidents, and test boundaries. To help, set up a safe quiet space such as a spare bedroom or laundry room with a cozy bed and crate. Check-in with your pet, but don’t force them to accept attention. Speak calmly when getting to know each other. Introduce them slowly to their new environment and family.

After the first three days, your new friend will likely settle in and feel more comfortable. She or he may start to realize that your home is a safe place. Establishing a routine is very important in the first three weeks. Consistent boundaries and rules are key. They may start showing their personality. You may also see behavior issues that should be addressed.

You might see your dog or cat’s true personality and temperament three months later. They will start to have a sense of security and be comfortable in the home. Trust is building, and the animal will start bonding with you, your family, and other pets. At this point, you can realistically judge if they are in their forever home.

Just like people, young pets adjust more quickly. Older and shyer animals may take a bit longer. Depending on their history, you may need to give it more time. As long as you see progress, you are doing the right things.

Lillypad

Lilypad should adjust quickly to her new home. Despite being out of sorts at the shelter, she settled into his foster home and showed her true personality. Her foster mom says, “Lilypad is a very sweet, petite little love bug. She has a lot to say and knows how to use her voice! She loves to cuddle, play, and sleep under the covers at night.”

Upcoming:

 

Announcing a benefit concert in March. Please share now or at a later date. Go here for more: https://ci.ovationtix.com/35465/production/1228037?performanceId=11586395

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