Tag: First Batch

What is the Best Way to Rehome a Dog?

The best way to rehome a dog is to try to find him a new home yourself. This way, you will have full control over who your dog’s new family is and can ensure it will be a good fit. You’ll find many resources are available to help you along the way and to make it easier to match your dog with a family that will love her as much as you do.

Not Sure Where to Start? 

There are many ways you could go about searching for a home, but some aren’t as safe as others. Instead of listing your pet on a classified site or Facebook yard sale site, consider using a website called Rehome. 

This website was created just to help pet owners like you who are faced with the need to give up their pet and want to do so in a safe and responsible manner. Rehome puts a host of resources at your fingertips, all of which are designed to simplify the process of locating a great home for your dog. Here’s how it works:

  1. Upload a Pet Profile: You can even include a video to help your pet get noticed.
  2. Review Applications: Rehome will notify you every time someone shows interest in your pet. They even offer screening guidance to help you choose the ideal home.   
  3. Meet Adopters: Rehome provides tips for a safe meet-up and advice about what to look for in potential adopters.

    Once you’ve found a home, the new family will be able to access the pet’s medical records (that you’ll upload) right from the Rehome site. 

    Rehoming your pet should always be a last resort. Whether the pet has behavior issues, you’re having financial problems, or you just think you’re too busy to keep your dog, there are resources available to help you work through those problems. Check the Keep Your Pet section on the Rehome website for advice.  

    How Do I Surrender My Cat?

    You can surrender your cat by bring him to an open admissions shelter or rescue organization. If ensuring your cat ends up adopted into a loving home is important to you, there is another option that will help your cat be seen by millions of potential adopters.

    Why Should I Think Twice About Surrendering My Cat To A Shelter or Rescue?  

    Shelters can be very stressful environments for pets. When a cat is used to living in a home they know and are comfortable in, moving to a shelter or rescue with other pets and people they don’t know may be a big adjustment. It’s also possible that a shelter or rescue will have limited space, causing additional stress for your cat.

    To give your cat the best possible chance you can at finding to a new home, it’s best to try to find them a home yourself. If your cat can stay in your home during the search for a new family, they will be less stressed and most likely have an easier adjustment to their new home.

    How Do I Find A New Home For My Cat? 

    Start with your friends and family. Does someone you already know want to adopt your cat? You never know unless you ask.

    If your friends and family aren’t able to take your cat, you can make a profile on Rehome. Rehome is a free program that allows you to post your pet on Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of adopters to see.

    Signing up for Rehome is easy and free. All you need to get started are photos of your cat, some basic health and behavior information, and a bio that describes your cat’s personality and temperament. Once you’ve entered all this information in your cat’s profile, you can post your cat and will soon begin to get applications from potential new families.  

    Why Is My Dog Barking At The Wall?

    Your dog may be barking at the wall because he hears animals or pests scurrying about or because he is experiencing cognitive dysfunction. The latter is more likely to occur when the dog is older. If he only focuses on one area of the wall, pests are more likely the cause while those with a medical problem typically stare and growl at various places on the wall.

    So It’s Not Ghosts? 

    The internet is fun. It’s given us dancing babies, social media, and information about how to tell if your dog barking at the wall is due to paranormal activity he’s sensing. The truth is that it’s much more likely that he hears mice or other animals or that he has a medical condition. Here’s what you need to do if you dog is barking at the wall:

    Set Up An Appointment With The Vet

    Anytime your pet exhibits strange behavior, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment just to rule out any medical concerns.

    Call The Pest Control Company

    If your pet is barking because some uninvited guests have taken up residence in your walls, the behavior will cease soon after they are removed. Call a humane pest control company that will safely relocate your visitors.

    Another possible reason your dog may bark at the wall, especially if he’s never done it before, is because he senses an outside threat. Whatever the cause, it’s important not to ignore unusual behavior in your pet. Whether he’s trying to warn you, detects pests, or is suffering from a medical condition, it’s vital to address the underlying cause of barking at the wall. 

    What Smells Deter Dogs?

    Citrus and vinegar are examples of smells that deter dogs. When you’re looking for a way to keep your dog away from certain areas in and around your home, one effective method may be applying a scent that dogs don’t like. There are many things you can try, but it may take some trial and error to figure out which deterrents will be most effective with your pets.

    Some Deterrents Are Dangerous 

    When searching for ways to deter dogs, keep in mind that some suggested methods can be dangerous to pets. These include ammonia, some essential oils, and citronella. Since there is so much conflicting information online, it’s a good idea to check with your vet if you’re not sure if a particular item is safe.

    Examples of safe deterrents include:

    • Citrus Peels: You might love the smell of a fresh orange or other citrus fruits, but your dog doesn’t. To try this simple, natural solution, simply pulse citrus peels in a food processor to release the oils and sprinkle them around the area of your yard you want to keep dog-free. You can also bury the peels under some mulch to keep them in place.
    • Vinegar Sprays: Fill a spray bottle with water and add two or three tablespoons of vinegar. You can also place vinegar-soaked cotton balls around the forbidden areas. If you don’t mind the smell, you can also use the vinegar-soaked cotton balls indoors. 

    Another option is to purchase repellent sprays that are available at most retail pet stores. If the natural remedies and store-bought sprays don’t seem to work, seek advice from a reliable animal behaviorist who will be able to give you tips about curbing unwanted behaviors.

    Whether you’re trying to keep dogs from stomping through your garden or from jumping on the furniture, with a little patience, you’ll find the solutions you need.   

    Should You Feed A Stray Cat?

    Before you feed a stray cat, you should check with your neighbors that the cat does not belong to them. Some cats are allowed to wander outside at their leisure and though they are fed, they will still beg for more. If the cat does not belong to your neighbors and does not seem scared of humans, the cat may be lost. You can feed the cats if you have the means to do so and it is legal in your area. You should also refer to our lost pet guide on the next steps.

    Know The Laws In Your Area 

    It is illegal to feed stray or feral cats (cats who have lived their entire life outdoors and do not tolerate human interaction) in some locations, so it’s important to know the laws in your area. It’s also important to know that many communities have groups of animal lovers advocating against such laws—and they have been successful in several places.

    Talk With Members Of A Local TNR Group

    If you notice a cat or multiple cats that are extremely scared of humans, it is likely a feral cat. Find a local group of feral cat advocates who will be happy to give you advice specific to your area. They will know if it is legal to feed these cats and whether or not it will be helpful for them. They’ll likely also encourage you to get the cat or cats TNR’d (trapped/neutered/released), which is another great kindness to these cats. 

    Where Can I Surrender My Cat For Free?

    There may be places where you can surrender your cat for free, but this depends on your location. In most areas, animal control charges a fee to accept surrendered animals, but some may not have a fee. Whether or not rescues charge anything varies by organization, but many do try to recoup a small portion of the cost of caring for the pet by charging a surrender fee. Rehoming your cat yourself is your best bet to avoid paying a rehoming fee. 

    Rehoming Your Pet 

    When you bring a pet into your home, it should be a lifelong commitment. Unfortunately, sometimes giving up a pet can’t be helped. Other times, the circumstances that make you want to surrender your pet could be resolved. For example, litter box issues may be a sign of an easily corrected medical issue. 

    If you’ve exhausted all options and still feel that surrendering your cat is the right decision, consider rehoming him yourself. There are many reasons this is a good option including:

    • You don’t have to worry whether or not he’ll be put down at a shelter.
    • You’ll be able to choose the perfect home for your cat.
    • You won’t have to wait weeks or months for a rescue to have an open spot. 

    While rehoming your cat yourself may take a little time, it’s worth it to know that you’re giving your pet the best possible chance of a happy life in a new home.

    Not sure how to get started? Many resources are available to help you, and one of the best is the Rehome website. You’ll find expert advice, have the ability to create a custom profile for your pet, accept applications from potential adopters, and much more. 

    If you can’t keep your pet, don’t surrender him—rehome him instead. 

    How Long Does It Take an Australian Cattle Dog to Get Used to a New Home?

    The amount of time that it takes for an Australian cattle dog to get used to a new home can vary based on a range of different factors. Australian cattle dogs are known to become attached to their owners, and they may have separation anxiety. As long as the dog feels safe and cared for, and they have owners who understand and accommodate their needs, they should start to acclimate within a week or so. However, it can sometimes take longer.

    Understanding some of the factors that affect the adjustment period and taking steps to make the transition to a new home easier will help to speed up the process. Below, we will be looking at these factors and what you can do to make the dog feel safe and welcome.

    The Age of the Dog 

    The age of the dog could be a factor when determining how long it will take them to get used to a new home. Puppies and younger dogs tend to have an easier time adapting than older dogs in many cases. Older dogs might feel a bit skittish at first, but as long as they are treated well and their needs are met, they will adjust relatively quickly. With older dogs, it tends to be a good idea to continue calling them by the name their previous owner gave them. This is what they are accustomed to.

    Making the Dog Feel Welcome and Part of the Family

    Those who are adopting the dog should make sure that they learn as much as possible about the personality of the dog. Knowing the likes and dislikes of the dog when they come to the home for the first time helps to ensure they feel more at home. Make sure that they are on a good schedule for their walks, playtime, and bathroom time. Give them time to adjust and love and encouragement along the way.

    Be Sure to Choose the Right Dog and the Right Home

    If you are going to be adopting an Australian cattle dog, or if you are an owner who needs to put their dog up for adoption, considering using Rehome. This is a platform from Adopt-a-Pet that helps to make it easier to find the right homes for the dog. Owners who have pets they need to put up for adoption can add photos, videos, and information about their dog’s personality and temperament.

    This information is highly valuable to those who are considering adoption. It can help them to determine whether they are getting the right Australian cattle dog for their home. The information also lets them create an environment that will be comfortable for the dog when it arrives.

    Australian cattle dogs tend to be an energetic and loving breed. Some might adjust to their new life almost immediately. Others will be nervous, and it will take more time for them to become comfortable. Don’t pressure the dog. They will adjust in their own time and become a loving member of your family. 

    How Do I Give Up My Australian Cattle Dog?

    To give up your Australian cattle dog will likely be a tough decision, but you might find yourself in a situation where you do not have a choice. You may be in a tough financial spot that means you can’t take proper care of your dog. You might have to move to a location that does not allow pets. Any number of things could happen.

    If you need to give up your Australian cattle dog, you have several options from which you can choose. However, some of these options are better than others.

    Online Classifieds

    This is an option that many people consider, but it is the worst choice. When you list your dog online through typical classified sites, you never know who will try to get your dog. Having a rehoming fee can help to weed out some of the undesirables, but it is not perfect. There is no way to determine whether you are choosing a good home for your dog or not.

    Shelters and Rescues

    Giving up your Australian cattle dog to shelters and rescues is another option to consider. While many people naturally worry about putting their dog in a shelter, these facilities do try to care for the dog properly and find them a good home. This can sometimes be difficult, though, so adoption is not a guarantee.

    You could also look for Australian cattle dog rescues that specialize in this breed. They can take good care of your pet, but they may still have a hard time finding someone to adopt. Still, it tends to be better and safer than giving the dog to a random stranger from sites like Craigslist.

    Giving the Dog to Someone You Know

    Another option that you may want to consider is having the dog be adopted by someone you know. This might be a coworker, friend, or family member, for example. One of the benefits of this is that you will likely still be able to get updates on your dog to see how they are doing. If you know someone who is looking for a dog, and you trust them to care for your dog properly, you might want to talk with them. Just make sure that they are a good fit for the dog’s needs.

    Give Rehome a Try

    Rehome is a platform that is available from Adopt-a-Pet. This is a peer-to-peer platform that allows owners to create a profile for their dog. They can add a bio for their dog with pertinent information, such as their temperament. You can let the potential adopters know whether the dog is good with children and other pets, or if it tries to herd them, as some cattle dogs will do. You can also add photos and videos of the pet here.

    Owners who need to give up their Australian cattle dog will not have to worry about any costs of fees. The platform is free for owners to use. The fees, which are about the same as would be paid in a shelter, are covered by the adopter.

    What Happens To Pets When Owners Die?

    What happens to pets when owners die depends on whether or not the owner made some kind of plans for their pets. If not, the pets often end up at animal control. That’s why it is important for loving pet owners to make plans for what will happen to their pets after their death.

    It’s In The Will

    While you can’t legally leave your money and belongings to your pet, you can set up a pet trust that provides for your pet’s care after your death. In addition to the money left in the trust, you’ll also need to choose a caregiver. This is the person who will take custody of the pets and who will use the money in the trust for the pets’ care. 

    If there is money left after the pets die, you can specify where the leftover money should go such as to another beneficiary, a charity, or the person who was the caretaker of the pets.

    Using Rehome 

    If a friend or family member of the deceased can temporarily care for the pet, the dog or cat can be posted on Rehome to find a permanent new home. Rehome is a peer-to-peer program that helps a pet go from one home right into another. Simply create a profile for your pet and it will appear on Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of adopters to see.  

    Caring for pets is a big responsibility, so discuss it with them in advance to be sure it’s something they are willing to do. It’s also a good idea to name a backup caretaker in case the first is unable to fulfill the role.  

    How Long Does It Take a German Shepherd to Get Used to a New Home?

    When adopting or rehoming a pet, you might ask, “how long does it take a German Shepherd to get used to a new home?” You might assume it only takes a few days for a dog to realize he’s safe and loved, but the truth is that it takes time for a dog to decompress after a move and to settle into a new routine. For some dogs, it can take a few months to fully become his best self in his new home.

    Why Does It Take So Long? 

    Anyone who works in rescue has seen dogs returned after a few days or a few weeks because he just wasn’t fitting in. Sadly, this means the dog has to start back at square one looking for a new home and that the adopters who returned the dog have to restart their search for a new pet.

    With a little patience and training, it’s very likely that most German Shepherds will learn their adopter’s routine and become a wonderful pet. That’s why it’s so important not to give up too soon.

    But why does it take so long for a dog to get used to a new home?

    Dogs are creatures of habit, so change isn’t always easy for them. They need to adjust to the idea that this is their new home and they’ll need time to learn new routines.

    A Few Tips 

    Here are a few tips for a smooth transition:

    • If you’re adopting a dog who is already in a home, don’t drag out the goodbye from the family giving up the dog.
    • Make the handover quick and pleasant.
    • Give the dog a blanket or other item with familiar scents for the first couple of weeks.
    • If you’re going to change his food, do it gradually.
    • If the dog seems resistant or fearful about certain routines (such as crating) don’t force it in a way that traumatizes the dog. Understand that you might have to start training from scratch.  

      With time and patience, your German Shepherd will learn what’s expected of him and will make a wonderful addition to your home.