How to Care for a Rescue Dog or Cat

Every day animal shelters take in dozens of homeless dogs and cats who with hope await their forever home. Sadly for some that never happens, but there are the lucky ones who are rescued and their futures look bright. If you have made the commitment or are considering adopting a pet from an animal shelter either to rescue a dog or taking one of the many cats for re-homing, here are some tips and hints on how to care for a rescue dog or cat.

• Remember that your rescue dog or rescue cat may have had a traumatic background and you won't ever know the full extent of the emotional distress that the pet has suffered, so it will always take time and patience to build up trust between you and your pet. It won't just happen overnight.

• When you bring your rescue dog or cat home make an area for your pet where he or she can go to if they are feeling unsure or nervous (a safety zone), for example; behind a sofa or under a table etc... This is a place where no-one can get to them and if your pet is feeling vulnerable, they know they can always go to this area and be safe. Obviously over time the pet will use the area less and less as he or she will start to feel more relaxed around you and understand that you are not a threat. If they had a favourite cat toy or dog toy at their rescue centre, bring it with him so they have something familiar around them.

• For the first couple of weeks do not fuss over your rescue dog or cat too much, just let your pet settle in, it will be very daunting for your new arrival to be in a different place. Let your pet observe you and your family so he or she can get used to the surroundings and routines. When your pet is ready naturally he or she will come to you.

• Take extra care to think around your new rescue animal, try not to make loud noises and sudden movements. Also things that you may not even think of could scare or bring back painful memories to your rescue pet things such as; raising your hand, carrying a mop or broom or even something as minor as dripping water. Obviously it is not possible to know what your pet fears or to not go about your daily business, but be as thoughtful as you can in the beginning.

• Let your new rescue pet sniff you and your family's hands so he or she can become familiar with all of the new scents and understand that no one is a threat to him or her. Feed treats by hand so the pet can see that you are a food source and he or she will start to feel positive around you. If there is a member of your family that the rescue pet fears, try to build their trust up with that person, encourage the person to feed the meals everyday so that the pet gains trust in that individual.

The main thing is you should allow your rescue dog or rescue cat the time and patience that is needed, for your pet to begin to trust in you. There is nothing more rewarding than gaining the trust of a rescued animal and seeing their newly found confidence appearing day by day. And remember helping save just one rescue pet can make a big difference in life and I am sure your newly rescued pet would certainly agree on that one.

Cat Rescue Centres and Rescue Dogs Homes can be found all over the country, you can easily search online to find the nearest animal rescue centres to you.

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