Fostering From An Older Dog
A dog breeder can help you learn some foster dog tips when it comes to buying puppies. You want to be sure that the puppy that you get is a good purebred. Ask your breeder for a copy of her record on her dogs, and be sure to ask if she got her puppies from the same place that she got her adult dogs. This can tell you quite a bit about her breeding practices.
Another thing to check is that her dogs were neutered or spayed when they were younger. If the dog has just been spayed, then you’ll probably want to start that practice a bit earlier so that the older dog won’t have to deal with hormones, which can harm them. Another good tip is to ask about the diet and lifestyle of the older dogs, since these are much more prone to health problems.
Another way to foster a loving relationship with any older dog is to take them to meet their prospective owners. Chances are that the new family will love older dogs just as much as you do. In fact, they may be even more excited than you are! Introduce them to the family members first, so that they get to know everyone before introducing them to your pets. It’s also nice to introduce them to other people so that they feel comfortable.
Be sure to bring along some toys when you visit the animal shelters. Older dogs are often very bored, and those with behavioral issues may need something to occupy them. There are many dog toys on the market today that are specifically made for older dogs to keep them busy in their little homes. Some of these toys are also very creative – you can get a ballerina or a cowboy for your older dog to play with!
One important thing to remember when fostering a dog from an older dog is not to leave them alone with anyone who is potentially harmful to them. Chances are that any unsuspecting person will be able to snap, bite, or worse. It is also important to make sure that you are acquainted with the “rules” for owning a dog of any age, so that you know what to expect. This can prevent any issues that could lead to you and your dog both being taken away.
Be sure that the older dog is getting plenty of exercise and interaction. They will be happier if they are able to run, play, and explore new things. They will also be less likely to develop any behavioral problems or aggressive tendencies toward other dogs or people, if they get out and about and socialize with other dogs regularly.
It’s also important to foster a healthy relationship between the dog and the family or other dogs in the household. Never hit or push a dog because it will only cause more stress and pain. It’s more beneficial to work with an older dog than it would be to throw a newborn baby in there and have that dog forever frightened and aggressive toward everyone in the household.
Dogs have a way of getting better with repetition. Don’t expect your dog to be perfect the first day you bring them home. Over time with regular training and consistency you will see that your older dog will become a well-adjusted, stable adult dog that you can be proud of. Fostering an older dog from an older dog isn’t as hard as you might think. With the right resources and the right attitude you can have a wonderful adult dog without all of the headaches that can come along with adopting a new puppy.