Expert: Kristin Date: 7/22/2008 Subject: Basic ownership and new home questions
Question Hi,
I will be picking up my new family memeber (Dog) friday after she gets
spayed and gets her final vet check from my local Humane Society. She is I
believe 6 or 7 years old. She is a little older. She is Lab Terrier mix. I know
that she had just been made available for adoption a few days before I came
in looking. She was getting flea treatments and overal check. From what I
understand her previous owners left her outside. They also shaved her teeth
down to flat molar like teeth. Poor thing. Anyways I am messaging you
because I have a few questions for you. She is extrodinarily shy. I walked her
a few times when I went to go visit as she waited for her vet date. Every time
she was very shy of where we walked. There was a path at the society that
lead through the woods. At first she would not move into the woods part.
Second time she was pretty ok with it. I want her to be comfortable in the ride
to the apartment as well as when she reaches my apartment. It is a large
apartment 700 square feet and I plan on giving her pretty much free range. It
also has a huge green space for her to play if she wants outside. What is the
best way to get her in the car for the first drive to her new home? Also what
can I have ready for her at my place to make her comfortable if anything? It
looks like I will be getting her a day after her spay surgery. Anything to
expect? When I saw how shy she was I just fell in love with her. I am a shy
person to and I really would like the opportunity to show her that we all aren't
so bad. I just want to know what is the best thing to do. Thanks.
Adam
Answer Probably the best way to travel would be to use a dog seatbelt as it keeps the dog from wandering and becoming a problem
As for her being shy,that is normal,esp in a shelter,she might not be as shy at home,the best way to overcome it is to just have her do things in small steps,like getting her used to short walks,then slowly making them longer
Also give people small treats to give her if she unsure of new people
And for a few days after the spay just take it easy no walks ect
