Wow – Whatta Yard – Doggie Adoption 101

Reny arrived with wags and kisses!

"Oh, I don't need to worry about this – I've had lots of experience with dogs . . ."   "Uh-uhhh"

Silly me.  I figured that since our kitties got along with our other dog, their meeting with Reny, would be smooth and without a hitch.  Lesson #1 in adopting . . . .  Be Prepared. Plan the logistics of bringing a new pet into your home. If you have other dogs or cats, think through things like:

• How will you make the introductions? (This is majorly important – and the thing I messed up. Now that we (the family, dogs and cats) have 3 days at home under our collective belts, our living routine is working itself out almost smoothly.  But we're still nowhere near how I want "the family" to be.  Taking big positive steps, though.)
• Save yourself a lot of grief, the "what-was-I-thinking?" stuff . . . give these things some attention before your new pal arrives!  (How to Introduce a Dog to your Cats)
• If you have kids, other adults in the household (parents, seniors, etc.) consider any special needs, schedules.
• Where will your new dog sleep?  Eat?  Do you need to partition off spaces?  Are the barriers you have tall enough to prevent your new pooch from jumping or climbing the partition?  I put up a baby gate that I thought was tall enough to keep Reny from jumping out of the kitchen.  I didn't think about climbing though . . .
• What happens if your existing animals are nervous?  How can you smooth the transition?
• Bach Rescue Remedy to the rescue!  A few drops in the drinking water, sprayed in the air.  (More on this later. At least have a plan – then you can always throw it to the winds when the troops arrive . . .  Anyone have any success or "learning experiences" (ahem!) to share about this?  I'd love to see your suggestions.