Tips for adopting frightened dogs

It is impossible to know what challenges dogs on the street face. Those that are picked up and helped by rescuers may learn to trust their rescuer but it takes time.If they are then moved to a new home, that’s another change, which is another stress.

However, with patience, a nervous stray will learn to trust.

Here are a few tips to help ease that first contact when you bring your newly adopted rescue home:

> A cornered animal expects to be attacked. Give them room and don’t force contact.

> Sit down. Predators try to tower over dogs, so try and stay a bit lower down.

> If you can, sit down with a book and read. Let the dog learn your scent.

> Move slowly and speak in low, quiet tones. Fast moves can be seen as aggressive or at least unpredictable. And shrieking is frightening.

> When the dog is calm, use food to show you’re a friend. Putting food where they can get it without you touching them will help them associate you with nice things.

> If the pet eats, praise softly. If they are too nervous to eat, take a break and let them rest. Then return later with a treat and repeat.

> If the dog freezes, growls or slinks away, know that is a fear response. Move back a little, and disengage. Let the pet calm down.> Once there’s calm again, offer more food.

> When the dog comes to you, let them sniff, and pet very gently. Don’t hug! Let the dog choose how it’s touched.

> Most of all, give it time.