New Adopter Checklist

YOU ADOPTED YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND…NOW WHAT?

To help make the transition to your new home as smooth as possible, please
take care to do the following:

1. Purchase and attach a pet id tag that includes your dog’s name and your
   contact information.
2. Slowly introduce your pup to new things and people. We know your excited to show off your new buddy- but go slow. A good rule of thumb is to introduce no more than one new person (outside of immediate family) a day.
3. Save the dog park trips (or other busy environments) for a few weeks down the road to avoid overwhelming and confusing your new family member.
4. Contact your vet and get a Meet and Greet vet appointment
   scheduled within 2 weeks of adoption. Don’t forget to bring in a fecal
   sample and be sure to get a supply of Heartguard and Flea/Tick
   protection. (Make note of the last treatment your pup received- located on their adoption paperwork envelope)
5. Research some local trainers and obedience classes in your area and sign up!
6. There is no better way to learn more about your pup and help him/her adjust to their new surroundings. Always use positive reinforcement and never punish your dog.
7. If applicable, transfer the microchip ownership to your name. Check your
   Vetting Paperwork to verify if your dog is microchipped and contact the
   company directly.
8. Call your town hall and follow the steps to get your pup licensed.
9. Be aware that all new canine residents are a potential flight risk.
   1. Make sure your dog is fitted with a secure martingale collar or harness.
   2. Keep your pup on a secure leash at all times when outside your home (do not use retractable leashes).
   3. Keep car windows cracked to a point where your dog cannot jump out.
   4. Hold onto the leash when car doors open.
   5. Do not let small children hold the leash unattended.
   6. Keep pups away from exit doors so they can’t sneak out.
10. Develop a rainy day/bad weather plan. Learn how to teach them nose work, buy interactive toys that dispense food/treats to keep them entertained. Have some no rinse shampoo on hand.
11. Begin a positive grooming routine. Make a plan for clipping nails, cleaning teeth, and a stress free bath time.
12. Create an emergency plan with family and friends. Secure a backup to watch your pup when an emergency comes up. Also, confirm who would take over the care of your pup if you are no longer able to care for them and make a plan for them in your will.
13. Research Pet Insurance or start an “unexpected pet expenses” jar.

Finally….relax and enjoy your new buddy. Be sure to have reasonable
expectations and give them the time they need to decompress from their long
and arduous rescue journey. They will need time to learn your routines and gain your trust. The time this takes will vary greatly, from weeks to a year. Please be patient and proactive.