When you head toward the shelter, the supplies you’ll need are few and frill-free: cash for the adoption fee (plus a little extra for a donation, so the shelter can carry on doing dog’s work)… photo ID… phone numbers of personal references, including a trusted veterinarian or dog trainer… and, if you rent your home, a copy of your lease or letter from your landlord stating that it’s OK for you to have a dog on the premises. If you’re bringing the dog home by car, paw-proof the interior with an old towel or sheet.
In terms of basic accessories, the shelter usually provides a nylon slip lead. That, mutt mavens, is your cue to begin the extreme makeover show we know you can’t wait to produce and direct: turning that pauper of a pup into a princely pooch. First things first: Remember to record the big day, capturing your canine’s charisma with a reliable digital camera such as the HP Photosmart R837, which includes such key features as "pet-eye fix.”
Start with a new leash and collar. If your adoptee is a big, strong dog with substantial pulling power, opt for a head halter or no-pull harness. Remember, those training aids are toys for you – please don’t forget toys for Spot, and lots of them. A variety of sanctioned chewables ought to keep him enchanted for the next couple of days at least – and, hopefully, away from your shoes and belts.
Next, select a gentle, all-natural pet shampoo to cleanse your dog of any schmutz that may have adhered to his coat. The stress of being in a shelter often results in dry, itchy skin and flaky fur, so read shampoo ingredients and select an emollient product containing soothing botanical ingredients that will moisturize the affected areas. The result will be a head-turning haircoat that’s noticeably improved. In just a couple of weeks under your care, eating gourmet kibble and tantalizing treats, your new best friend’s coat will be nothing less than glorious.
Speaking of coats, if your adopted dog was blessed with a plush, woolly one, he won’t require a man-made thermal layer, but if he’s short-coated, he’ll appreciate a sweater or more high-tech winterproof garment.
Now that Spot’s clean, you should have no fear in letting him explore your home’s coziest zones. Few creatures on Earth know appreciate pampering quite like the formerly homeless shelter dog. He may have been sleeping on the mean streets just days ago, but he intends to enjoy your home and hearth to the fullest (it’s really his now), so prepare to share.
That means making sure to slipcover the sofa; providing access to the furniture with a ramp or step-up (especially if your new buddy is short of leg and/or long of spine); and fluffing up a cushy dog bed, or three. Remember, shelter dogs love the security of knowing there’s a soft sleeping spot that’s theirs and theirs alone - ideally in every room of your home.
The greatest thing about the versatile adoptable dog is how brilliantly he adapts to your lifestyle, whatever that, um, entails. If you thrive on alfresco exercise, he’ll join you outdoors in all types of weather, for mountain hikes, runs on the beach, or romps through the snow. If you’re a sailor, he’ll gladly be your first mate. If you’re a road warrior, the car will be Spot’s command central too - so paw-proof the vehicle’s interior with automotive seat covers.
There isn’t a mutt in the known universe who doesn’t view the kitchen as the most desirable spot in a home. If you’re the type who loves to cook, your adopted dog will be your most enthusiastic recipe tester. Here’s a K9 caveat: Take care to arm your kitchen with a clean, new metal garbage can that sports a tight-fitting lid. Even a few days on the mean streets have a tendency to leave formerly stray dogs with an indelible memory of hunger. This they won’t hesitate to satisfy by rooting shamelessly through your trash the second you’re not looking. Also, if you haven’t lived with a dog in a while, especially a savvy survivor of a stray, make sure anything edible that’s toxic to dogs is placed far out of Fido’s reach – especially your stash of dark chocolate.
