How To Take Care Of A Pet

Are you thinking of adopting a rescue pet? Feeling excited but slightly in the dark about what to do with your new housemate? You’ve come to the right place! To celebrate National Rescue Dog Day on May 20, we’re sharing this handy guide on caring for your rescues.

How to Take Care of Your Rescue Pet: 5 Important Needs

Rescuing a pet can be one of the most fulfilling experiences for pet lovers, but it’s also a huge responsibility. Careful planning helps you avoid the potential behavioral and physical issues common with rescue pets.

1. Vet Visit

Your first stop should be the vet. Animal shelters are usually overcrowded, and your new fur baby may have been exposed to infectious diseases such as parvoviruses, feline caliciviruses, canine distemper viruses, and more. Even if your pet came from a foster home, it’s still best to have them checked by a vet before bringing them home. 

Set up a vet visit the day you pick up your dog or cat. Your vet will likely conduct a physical exam and several tests to check for fleas, ticks, ringworms, life-threatening diseases, and other communicable diseases. They might also ask for medical records if the shelter can provide them

2. Small And Safe Room

New environments can be overwhelming for rescue pets. Many have lived in cramped shelter cages for months or years, especially those from the city pound. Some animal shelters ask volunteers to play with or walk rescue pets for socialization, but not all pets have this privilege. 

Patience is key for the first few days as your rescue may be shy, withdrawn, afraid, or even aggressive. For the first few days, keep your rescue pet in a small, quiet room with easy access to their bed, food, fresh water, litter box, and toys. Separate them first from other pets in your house, giving everyone time to adjust to the new situation.

3. High-Quality Pet Food

There are two things you can’t scrimp on–medical care and food. Dogs and cats don’t need the latest pet fashion or the most expensive toys, but quality pet food is a must. It keeps them healthy and energetic.

Choose pet food that fits your pet’s dietary needs. We highly recommend wet commercial pet food for its palatability, hydration benefits, and variety. For instance, Purr Delight cat food offers a tuna cat food and special cat food with malunggay for cats variant, which is not only yummy but also packed with immune-boosting vitamins.

4. Quality time

Spending quality time with your rescue pet helps them get used to your presence. Speak gently to them, take them for short walks, and pet them if they’re comfortable with it. Never scream at or harm your pet as this will only increase their discomfort, fear, and distrust. 

Each pet rescue is different, and some take a longer time to adjust, especially if they were abused. The beautiful thing about dogs and cats is that they’re extremely forgiving when they experience the love and care they deserve.

We love the transformation story of Wendy, a rescue dog who was too terrified to come inside her foster mom’s house even in the rain. Dodo’s heartfelt feature video showed how Wendy’s foster mom created a safe space for her in the shed and spent time with her until Wendy felt comfortable. Eventually, the foster mom’s efforts paid off. Now, Wendy is an indoor dog and on her way to finding her furever home. 

5. Socialization 

Once your pet is comfortable with you, it’s time to introduce them to new people and pets. Proper socialization makes pets friendly and confident, reducing the stress for you, your other pets, and everyone around you.

The Animal Humane Society suggests starting socialization in puppyhood and adolescence. Puppies are easier to train to handle separations from owners and prevent biting. Adolescents need continued exposure to new people and dogs through playgroups, dog parks, doggy dates, simple leash walks, and physical touch. 

When dogs grow old, they naturally don’t enjoy playing with unfamiliar dogs anymore. Rescued seniors may feel especially vulnerable. It’s important to respect their space and season. But you can still set up play time by introducing them to one dog at a time and keeping them leashed until they get comfortable.

For rescue cats, Tenth Life, a cat shelter, recommends patience and positive play experiences with interactive toys and catnip. Slowly introduce human touch using toys first, then gradually pet them and lengthen lengthen your interactions. Golden Oldies Cat Rescue advises ensuring your cat trusts you before introducing them to new people. Let family members and friends quietly share the space with your cat, keeping their voices calm and avoiding approaching the cat. Gradually, your rescues should feel safe around them.

Why Should I Adopt a Rescue?

Adopting a rescue saves the life of a pet. According to PAWS, there were about 12 million stray cats and dogs in the Philippines in 2019. Sadly, the Philippine News Agency reports that adoption rates are less than one percent. To make the situation more heartbreaking, impounded pets may end up being euthanized if they’re unclaimed or not adopted. Lawmakers are pushing for legislation to encourage adopting strays and impounded animals, but spreading awareness and enacting change takes time. Meanwhile, millions of strays need help.

Adopting a rescue may improve your life. The health benefits of pets are much touted. They keep you active, reduce loneliness and anxiety, and provide incomparable companionship. Some of them may be extra clingy, but you’ll also enjoy days full of fun and laughter with their playful antics. While the “pet effect” on health varies, one thing is certain– when you give dogs and cats much love, they love you back even more. 

Adopting a rescue pet is a journey filled with love and patience, but the rewards are immense. Celebrate National Rescue Dog Day by opening your heart and home to a rescue pet in need. Visit your local animal shelter or explore online adoption resources today. Together, we can make a difference, one rescue at a time!