Adopting pets has become very vocal advocacy in recent years – and for good reason. Shelters are swarming with dogs that have been neglected, abandoned, and abused by their previous owners. If you want to take part in this advocacy and adopt a dog from a shelter, it is important to know that this is no easy task.
Dogs can have post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. And dogs who have PTSD tend to have behavioural issues. So before you go and adopt a dog, you might want to know how to handle emotionally scarred dogs.
PetCareRX gives us some tips in nursing dogs with traumatic pasts.
Develop a routine.
One of the best ways to get your newly-adopted dog to trust you is by creating a routine. You can start by feeding them at exact timings. Schedule a time for its daily grooming session. Take your dog to a walk at the exact same time every day. A busy and predictable schedule will help your dog feel safe in its environment.
Positive reinforcement training.
Instead of scolding your dog for mistakes, reward their good deeds. Positive reinforcement training allows you to engage with your dog in a relaxed setting while training it to understand basic commands.
Remain patient and calm.
Dogs with severe emotional scars often take months, even years, to properly recover. This will take a lot of time and effort in your part as a caretaker.
Give your dog attention.
As a responsible pet owner, it is your job to give your dog attention and love every single day. However, you should not go overboard as well. Give your dogs freedom and personal space.
Read more tips in the full article here.