We just bought a 3 year old sheltie from a couple who had had her since she was a pup. We just got her last night. She is acating super scared of EVERYTHING i feel so bad! I knew it would be a bit tricky with her being 3 years old and only being with that family. The family sold her because they have a 14 mo. old and a 4 mo. old and she said she just does not have the time for her. She seems very depressed, lost and sad. I've played with her and taken her on MANY walks today. Does anyone have any good suggestions on helping her adapt to us her new family? I know it will take a bit but i want to do everything i can to make her more comfortable. Someone suggested putting karo or kyro syrup in her water? I've never ever heard of that so if you have fill me in. Any suggestions would be great! thanks!
2007-09-11 12:04:54 · 5 answers · asked by roxygurl1307 3 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Shelties are not very fond of changes in their routines. Since you only got her last night, give her a chance to settle in, especially before introducing her to new sights and sounds. Keep your walks confined to a small area, preferably one that is quiet, and with little traffic and strange people. Karo syrup? That's ridiculous. All that would do is raise her blood glucose, which she does NOT need. One of the best ways to make her feel comfortable is to not make any special production out of her. Don't go seeking her out, and she will miss the contact. Soon she will look for you, at which point your casually pet her, rather than making a big fuss over her. Trust me, in aobut 2 weeks, she will be a whole different dog.
2007-09-11 12:32:11 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 6⤊ 0⤋
I wonder how I ever managed to have three kids,6 cats, 5 dogs and still go on living. It is really sad when people get rid of a dog for that reason. I am sure a three year old Sheltie was not much bother. If she was, THAT is the real reason that they got rid of her.
Shelties are a nervous breed to begin with. In time, you can hope she will adjust. It is a big change. Karo syrup is good for raising blood sugar. It won't do anything for making the dog settle in. Time is the only thing that will do that.
I hope those people don't get another dog. O dog is a member of the family FOREVER. Shame on them!!
2007-09-11 12:20:14 · answer #2 · answered by ARE YOUR NEWFS GELLIN'? 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
I don't know what karo syrup in her water is supposed to do besides raise her sugar level? Just love her and treat her with kindness. If you find she has a favorite treat, then offer it when you are spending some quality time with her. Maybe in the evening, just get her to come and sit with you and without fussing over her, just pet her and relax with her. When getting ready to go for a walk, speak with excitement and enthusiasm in your voice. Like this is a grand adventure you two are headed out on. Brush her, this can be a very bonding experience.
She will adjust, I have seen it hundreds of times with the rescues I foster. She misses her family, rightfully so, but she will soon adopt your family as hers and her loyalty will be with all of you.
Actually, the woman probably did the best thing for her dog. With two babies only 10 months apart, she doesn't have time to think, let alone try to entertain the dog. She was thinking of the dog when she made her decision and she made the right one.
2007-09-11 12:14:58 · answer #3 · answered by gringo4541 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There's no need for the karo syrup. That'll just make her water taste funny.
The best thing that you can do is act normal. As much as you feel bad for her, don't baby her. Don't cuddle her, and tell her it will be ok. Especially when she's acting nervous or afraid. You should stay calm and unconcerned. You family is her new pack, she needs to know that you are stable and in control. This will make her feel safe.
Establish a routine, with meals, walks, bedtime.
Many shelties love playing fetch with balls or frisbies. Some prefer stuffed animals.
Just be patient. It will take her a while to get adjusted to your home, and family.
Good luck!
2007-09-11 12:21:02 · answer #4 · answered by Suzi 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Good on you for taking on this responsibility. And don't get me started on the thoughtlessness of people who think that pets are disposable items :(
It will take time but the dog will come around. Did the previous people give you any of the dog's belongings - bedding, bowls, toys etc? This would help with the transition as she would have familiar items around her.
Keep doing what you are doing. Keep her busy and provide lots of company for the poor thing. Shelties can be a bit timid so don't rumble with her, be gentle and just let her take the lead. They go well with obedience training so this may be a good activity for you to do with the dog too.
Good luck
2007-09-11 12:20:17 · answer #5 · answered by Joh 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋