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 caring for a human being. A pet is a living, breathing being with all its needs, so you have to be prepared for it.
It is not just snuggles and cuddles at all times, so when you bring 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 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 in making your foster dog feel comfortable and at ease in your home.
These tips are aimed at helping you transition smoothly into the role of a foster parent.
Some people have a difficult time adjusting to their new routine and the new family member. However, if you follow these tips, it will make it much 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 must be a safe place for the dog to relax.
The place should be indoors, properly ventilated, and quiet. It is quite possible that the dog is not house-trained, so there must be a proper place for it to relieve 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 it requires any medication.
You should also know if it likes company or prefers to be alone. Additionally, you should learn about its food preferences and allergies.
You must be aware of all these things beforehand.
3. Hold off on 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 get to know them first and then buy toys accordingly.
Understand their habits. If they like ripping apart their bed, then stuffed toys are not a good option for them.
4. Plan their outdoor activities.
Once you have assessed your foster dog's temperament, you must plan its outdoor activities accordingly. Some dogs do not like being on a leash.
For those dogs, you need to designate a secure place and allow them to play off-leash. Others might enjoy going for walks while on a leash.
It all depends on what your dog prefers. But rest assured, they enjoy outdoor time, so you have to plan accordingly.
5. Focus on giving them tasty but healthy meals.
Like human babies, your dog may prefer comfort food over healthy options. Therefore, you have to plan a balanced diet.
There are many healthy yet delicious options available for dog meals. You must choose from them and see which ones your dog likes.
6. It is important to dog-proof your home.
This is not only for your sake but for the sake of your dog as well. You do not want them destroying your belongings while playing and getting injured in the process.
You definitely do not want them chewing on your plants, which might be poisonous to them. Similarly, you have to hide small objects, as they might swallow them.
Put latches on your trash cans and keep sharp utensils out of reach as well.
7. Gradually introduce them to your friends and family.
A foster dog may have gone through some trauma or may be shy. Therefore, you must take it slow while introducing them to your family and friends.
Do not just spring everyone on them suddenly.
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8. Form a routine for them.
It is very important that you establish a routine for them. Their life will be much more orderly if there is a routine to follow.
This will also help discipline them instead of giving you new surprises every day. Try to follow this routine yourself.
9. Keep their medication on hand.
As mentioned earlier, you must have all the information about your foster dog, especially regarding their medication. Therefore, you must keep whatever medicine they require handy.
If they need to take daily medication, it should be readily available and administered on time. Similarly, if they require deworming or anti-flea treatments, those should also be made available.
If you are having trouble getting your dog to take their medication, try hiding it in their favorite food or treat.
10. Give them space.
You have to set boundaries for yourself regarding your dog's well-being. Foster dogs are especially vulnerable due to their background.
Therefore, you must respect their boundaries to help them adjust well and improve their quality of life.
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