Setting You & Your Pooch up for Success

Safety Items needed:

Animal Care Zone takes the safety of animals very seriously. The transition into a new home can be a stressful and scary experience for even the most confident dog. During this time, your dog can be a flight risk (prone to escape) and extra caution should be taken. 
In addition to the adoption fee, families must arrive to pick up the dog with the following safety supplies: 

• 1 Martingale Collar - When fitted correctly, a martingale collar is comfortable and impossible to slip out of.
• Harness & Seat Belt - One of the top ways people lose pets is during car travel. You can purchase a harness with a seat belt for around $15-$20. NEVER attach the seat belt to a collar as this could result in fatal injury in the car.  It should be used with a harness only. Never let your dog ride in the front seat. An airbag deployment can result in fatal injury, resulting in death. 
• 2 Nylon Leashes - We do not ever recommend using a retractable leash. 
• 1 ID Tag for Collar - This can be purchased at any pet store and should be engraved with your phone number and the dog’s new chosen name before the day of adoption.
• License - Look into obtaining a pet license with your city. If your dog is ever lost, it will be important that your dog is licensed with the city. 
• Microchip - You must register the dog's microchip number before the day of adoption. 

Other Items Needed:

Before you take your new home dog, you need to have the following items:

• 2 dog bowls, one for water, the other for food
• Dog food and dog treats 
• A crate that can serve as a safe-house for the dog. It should have a mat inside, with a blanket
• A dog bed outside the crate, with a blanket
• Some dog toys to keep the dog engaged
• You can think of purchasing a dog camera if you will be leaving the dog alone often
  
• Compostable poop bags. You will need to buy these regularly. 

Time Investment Needed:

During the first few weeks, prepare yourself to put in more time with your newly adopted dog. Going on longer than usual walks is a good way to bond.  Being more present in the home than usual will help your dog get used to you. 

Some dogs experience stomach upset and diarrhea in the first few days. You may need to clean up more often. They may also not eat for the first few days. House-trained dogs may regress and have accidents. Some will shy away from you for a while until you earn their trust. This is all normal. Be patient with your dog. It could take anywhere from three days to three months for your new dog to settle in.