I am interested in knowing the "side effects" that dogs experience when they are placed in a new home. Chihuhua, 10 years old. The owner has developed health problems and cannot adequately care for the dog. If you have had any experience with this kind of situation, please post your reply. Thanks
2006-11-18 13:02:13 · 7 answers · asked by h v 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
I've not had experience with that breed, but many dogs are rehomed successfully. Labs are rehomed commonly here and they are so accomodating and happy. Dogs are remarkably adaptable so unless the dog is extremely shy and timid, it shouldn't be a problem.
If you are considering this dog, what I would suggest is that you visit this person for a while if the dog doesn't have to be rehomed immediately. Maybe you can help out with the dog until it gets to know you. Occasionally take it for car rides and a visit to your house. then when you "adopt" it - everything won't be so new, strange and scary.
2006-11-18 13:11:15 · answer #1 · answered by dobes 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have two Huskies, both came from animal shelters. Our female had been with a family until she was 10 years old, and they had to move and couldn't take her with them. She then spent many months waiting at the shelter. No one wanted her because of her age. We adopted her.
The pros: She was already house trained, would obey simple commands, walked well on a leash, and liked kids and cats. The cons: She had severe separation anxiety and couldn't be crated because she developed a hate of being caged while at the shelter. She broke five of her teeth on the metal bars and had a badly infected tooth when we got her, which cost over $1000 at the vet. She also got diarrhea within minutes of being left alone. She was what some people call a "velcro" dog. I had to work with her for six months for her to be comfortable being alone.
It turned out to be time and money well spent. She is now almost 15 and is smart, playful, and fun. She trained on our invisible fence in one day. She loves kids and goes to the local elementary school in the winter to get hitched to a sled and pull kindergarteners in the snow. She stays home while I go to work and must sleep all day because she doesn't have any naughty habits.
Older dogs have issues, it's true. But if you want a dog without having to go through the puppy phase, an older adult is a great solution. And you can teach an old dog new tricks. Like I said, our dog trained right away on the invisible fence. She is a great companion and I wouldn't trade her for the world.
2006-11-18 13:22:57 · answer #2 · answered by Doe 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We have a lab we got at the shelter and she did fine. The beagle we got from a friend took a lot more time to adjust to us, but is fine now. We also have a foster dog that is a lab. He was in very bad shape when we got him, but after a few weeks he is fine now too and awaiting a new home. You just need to be very patient with the dogs as it is a huge change for them, but if you give it plenty of attention and love it will probably be okay in the end.
2006-11-18 15:27:22 · answer #3 · answered by flowergirl1994 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I also have adopted a dog 2 weeks ago. It is the same thing like a child being taken away from their family (if the family is not fit to care for them). The dog may experience anxiety, depression, or be scared.
The best thing to do since your dog is a small dog, let it sit on your lap and give it lots of love and attention. You and your new addition (new dog) will be able to bond this way. Your dog will begin to trust you and will become your life long companion.
Good Luck :-)
2006-11-18 13:31:24 · answer #4 · answered by Debbie S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there is likely to be some moping, and grieving. but, in about 3 weeks or so, if the dog is friendly, it should adjust just fine..We have had dogs left at the boarding kennel, at that age, and being left for the first time.when an elderly must leave them there for an extended period...they all seem to come around and respond to love and good care...
2006-11-18 13:27:41 · answer #5 · answered by Chetco 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
every dog is different.. more intelligent breeds (of which a Chihuahha isnt) have more difficultly that less intelligent breds
well socialized dogs certainly have a better time of it.. unfortunately most people fail to socialize the smaller dogs... often they are babied too much
good luck
try to make sure the dogs toys, bedding etc. go with the dog.. AND its food type is the same
2006-11-18 13:19:03 · answer #6 · answered by CF_ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well if its lived in the old home for 10 years it will have trouble adjusting. if you still have its old crate/bed/toys etc, use those.
and it will also be pretty tired
2006-11-18 13:07:28 · answer #7 · answered by Michelle 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋