These 10 Handy Tips Are Sure To Help You Take Better Care Of Your Foster Dog
Caring for a pet is a full-time job and it is equally taxing as it is to care for a human being. A pet is a living breathing being with all its needs so you have to be prepared for it.
[ ADVERTISEMENT ]
It is not snuggles and cuddles at all times, so when you are bringing home a dog to foster, you must be prepared for it mentally. You will be in charge of taking care of your foster dog.
You will have to feed it, clean it, bathe it, and on top of all of this, you have to make sure that it is comfortable and happy. So, if you're considering the foster life, scroll down to read a few tips to guide you to make your foster dog feel comfortable and at ease at your home.
These tips are aimed at helping you transition smoothly in the role of a foster parent.
Some people have a difficult time adjusting to their new routine and the new family member. But if you follow these tips, it will make it a lot easier for both parties to adjust.
1. Make sure there is a safe space for your new furry buddy.
This is probably the most important thing to do. There has to be a safe place for the dog to relax.
The place should be located indoors and it should be properly ventilated as well as quiet. It is quite possible that the dog is not house trained, so there must be a proper place for it to clean itself.
2. Make sure you have all the information you need beforehand.
It is very important that you have all the information required to take care of your new foster dog You must know if they require any medication.
You must also know if they like company or staying alone. You should learn about their food preferences and allergies as well.
You must be aware of all of these things beforehand.
3. Hold on to the toy shopping for a bit.
It's difficult to hold back but you should not immediately buy toys for them. It is important to know them first and then buy the toys accordingly.
Know their habits. If they like ripping off their bed, then stuff toys is not a good option for them.
4. Plan their outdoor activities.
Once you have judged your foster dog's temperament, then you must plan its outdoor activities accordingly. Some dogs do not like staying on leash.
So for them, you have to designate a secured place and leave them off leash to play and have fun. Others might like going for walks while they are on a leash.
So it all depends on what your dog likes. But rest assured they like outdoor time so you have to plan accordingly.
5. Focus on giving them tasty but healthy meals.
Like human babies, your dog baby might like comfort food more than the healthy one. So you have to plan a balanced diet.
There are many healthy but delicious options available for dog meals. So you must choose from them and see which ones your dog likes.
6. It is important to dog-proof your home.
Not for your sake only but for the sake of your dog too. You do not want them destroying your things playing with them and getting injured in the process
You definitely do not want them chewing on your plants which might be poisonous for them. Similarly, you have to hide your small object as they might swallow them.
Put latched on your trash cans and keep away your sharp utensils also.
7. Gradually introduce them to your friends and family.
A foster dog may have gone through some trauma or be shy otherwise. Therefore you must take ti slow while introducing them to your family and friends.
Do not just spring everyone on them suddenly.
.
8. Form a routine for them.
It is very important that you form a routine for them. Their life will be much more in order if there is a routine to follow.
This will also discipline them instead of giving you new surprises every day. Try following this routine yourself.
9. Keep their medication on hand.
As described earlier that you must have all the information about your foster dog especially their medicine. So, you must keep whatever medicine they require handy.
If they are required to be taking daily medication, it should be available and should be administered on time. Similarly, if they require de-worming or anti-flee treatments, they should be made available.
If you are having trouble feeding your dog their medication, Try hiding it in their favorite food or treat.
10. Give them space.
You have to set boundaries for yourself where your dog's well-being is concerned. Foster dogs are especially vulnerable due to their background.
So you must respect their boundaries for them to adjust well and get better at life.