Tag: First Batch

How Do I Find a Good Home for My Great Pyrenees?

You can find a good home for your Great Pyrenees when you know what your dog needs and take the time to find the right new owner. Although you probably never thought that you’d have to give up your dog, now that you do, you need to find her a wonderful new home. Keep the below tips in mind.

Know What Your Dog Needs

You know your dog better than anyone else, which means you know what she needs from a new home. You know her quirks and all of the good and potentially troublesome qualities that she might have. Before you start to think about who should get your dog, you need to write down all of the needs she has.

Does she like to get out and go hiking? Does she have a lot of energy that she needs to burn, or does she like to have lazy days most of the time? Does she hate cats? Does she have any medical issues?

All of this information will be important when you’re choosing an owner for your dog. After all, you don’t want to give her to someone who can’t provide what she needs.

Does the New Owner Have Everything Your Dog Requires?

You need to make sure that the owner has enough space for her, and that they’ll be capable of providing her with plenty of exercise. If she doesn’t do well with small animals, you won’t want her to go to a house that has rabbits and cats, for example. Learn as much as you can about the people who want to adopt before you make your choice.

Charge a Rehoming Fee

If you’re going to be letting someone you don’t know adopt your dog, it’s important to charge a rehoming fee. This money isn’t used to line your pockets, of course. Instead, it’s used to help deter the wrong people from getting your dog. It can help to keep your dog safe from people who might be looking for free dogs they can sell to labs or who have other nefarious purposes in mind.

Even shelters and rescues charge these fees, although they typically call them adoption fees. The only time you don’t need to charge a rehoming fee is when you’re giving your dog to someone you know.

Use a Quality Rehoming Service

If you’ll be giving your dog to someone you don’t know, be sure to use a service like Rehome. This can connect with you to people looking to adopt. Fill out your dog’s profile, add photos, and then wait for applications to start coming in from potential adopters. It’s easy to use and free for owners. Rehome will charge the new owner a rehoming fee, so you don’t have to worry about it.

Consider People You Know

Of course, you might have a family member or a friend that’s looking to adopt. If you feel they’ll be a good fit for your Great Pyrenees, let them adopt her. You’ll like knowing that your dog is going to a great home where she’ll be loved.

How Can I Find a Home for My Pit Bull?

If you’re asking how can I find a home for my pit bull, you’ve likely made the decision to give up your pet. Coming to this conclusion is not easy and figuring out the next step can cause anxiety. One of the best ways to put your mind at ease, and ensure your pit bull ends up in the right home is to rehome him yourself. There are other options, but this one lets you choose your pet’s new home and make sure he finds the right fit. You might not know where to start, but there are available resources, such as those on the Rehome website to help you every step of the way.

Giving Your Dog a Second Chance at a Forever Home

There are many reasons people choose to give up their pit bulls, including everything from allergies to behavior problems. In many circumstances, these issues can be resolved with additional training, a trip to the vet, or other professional help. If possible, see if there are other steps you can take to keep your dog home with you.

If you find that giving up your dog is the only option, be sure to give him the best chance at happiness in a new home. Here some tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t List Your Dog Free to a Good Home:Instead charge a small rehoming fee of at least $50. This will eliminate people who search through online classifieds looking for pit bulls to use for dog fighting, or other ill intentions.

  • Be Realistic When Surrendering to a Shelter: While most shelters do their best to find homes for every dog they take in, the sad reality is some dogs become permanent residents or have to be put down.
  • Seek Help from Animal Welfare Professionals: Private rescues are unlikely to have room to take your dog in, but some will do courtesy listings to help you find a good home for your pit bull. Pet adoption experts, like those behind Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com, can also help get your pit bull in front of potential adopters, and provide guidance on properly screening adopters.

Rehome Your Pit Bull Yourself for the Best Results!

It’s not an easy decision to give up your pet, so make the most of a difficult situation by looking for the perfect home. When you create an online profile for you pit bull on Rehome, you’ll be able to accept applications, get tips on how to choose adopters, and much more. It’s the safe, reliable, and free way to ensure your pit bull is adopted into a loving home where he will be well cared for.

Yes, it will take some time, but it will be so worth it when you’re able to hand your pit bull over to a family that you know will give him the love and care he deserves.  

What Does It Mean When Your Dog Barks at You?

When your dog barks at you, it means he is try to tell you something. What that something is will vary. He could be demanding food, asking for attention, being protective, telling you he is in pain, or alerting you to what he perceives as danger.

Should I Feel Threatened When My Dog Barks at Me? 

Dogs bark for many different reasons, so the fact that he is barking at you is usually no cause for concern. If the bark is low-pitched and accompanied by growling, that can be a sign of aggression. Keep in mind, however, that aggression is often caused by pain or an illness—especially if it comes on suddenly and isn’t normal for your dog. So putting aside aggression, here are a few things your dog may be trying to tell you:

“I’m Hungry”

If your dog is barking at you and it’s past his dinner time, there is a good chance he’s hungry. He’s just offering a gentle reminder that he has no intention of missing a meal.

“Put Your Shoes On and Take Me for a Walk” 

Dogs need their exercise and they also appreciate routine. If you normally walk him morning and night, you can expect to hear about it when it doesn’t happen.

“My Toy Is Stuck Under the Couch” 

Often a dog barking means he isn’t getting something he wants. If the barking is accompanied by scratching around a couch or other piece of furniture, there is a good chance that a favorite toy is hiding underneath.

“I Want Attention” 

Barking may be a cry for attention, but it should be ignored. If you respond to barking with pets and cuddles, you’re encouraging the behavior. Instead, ignore your barking dog and when he calms down reward him with the attention he wants.

While you can’t speak canine, you can often look for clues that will help you understand what it means when your dog barks at you. 

Why Do Dogs Stare At You While You Eat?

Dogs stare at you while you eat because they want what you’re eating. In the wild, dogs stare at the pack leader as he eats. This is how they let him know they are hungry and hope to get his scraps. You’re the pack leader, and they are hoping you’ll share your meal.

How to Curb Staring During Meal Time 

Because this behavior is a natural instinct, curbing it completely can be difficult. You can, however, take steps to not encourage staring.

NEVER Feed Your Dog from the Table 

Unless you want your dog planted next to your seat at the dinner table for every meal for the rest of his life, do not toss him a treat from the table. Even if you only do it once, he’ll never forget. He’ll spend the rest of his life waiting patiently for a repeat. If you want to share your table scraps, you need to take your plate away from the table and put some space between the dog staring and you giving him the food so he doesn’t associate the two.

Ignore Him 

You can’t say “bad dog!” enough to eliminate a natural instinct. Instead, completely ignore his staring. Over time, this may help minimize the behavior.

Feed the Dog First 

Some pet owners have had success with feeding their dogs before they sit down for a meal. If your dog is full, he may be less interested in whatever is on your plate. Of course, some dogs can never get enough, so don’t expect this to be 100% effective.

Why do dogs stare at you while you eat? They want your food! If it really bothers you, or if you’re having company, simply crate your dog (if he is crate trained) during mealtime to eliminate the problem. 

What Can I Spray To Stop My Dog From Digging?

Vinegar and citrus oil are two things you can spray to stop your dog from digging. Commercial dog repellent sprays are also available. These methods will not work for all dogs, so it may take some trial and error to discover what works for your dog. Whether you choose a homemade or commercial product, such sprays are a good starting point for pet owners who want to curb this behavior.

Why Dogs Dig 

The reasons dogs dig are as varied as the methods to try and stop it. If you know why he is digging, you may be able to prevent the behavior even without the use of sprays. If your dog is digging, he may be trying to:

  •  Escape the Yard: If digging is along the fence, it’s pretty obvious what your dog is trying to do. This is one of the most troublesome types of digging because it puts your dog in danger. If your dog is digging to escape, block the area around the fence with chicken wire or rocks to prevent him from getting out of the yard while you work on stopping the digging. 
  • Cool Off: Digging holes and then resting inside them means your dog is digging to cool off. Aside from not leaving your pet outside on hot days, you can also be sure to provide adequate shade and plenty of water.
  • Hunt Prey: If you see signs of burrowing pests near the spots where your dog digs, he is likely hunting. Call a humane exterminator to safely move the gopher, mole, or other animal out of your yard.
  • Relieve Boredom: Digging is fun! At least some dogs think so. If your dog is digging as a game or to relieve boredom, introducing lots of new toys and additional playtime may curb the behavior. 

Are Commercial Sprays More Effective than Homemade?

Not necessarily. Just like humans have different tastes, so do dogs. The spray is simply adding a repellant to the area, and what will repel one dog may not repel another. If you don’t want to spend money for a commercial spray, try the homemade sprays first to see if you get the desired results. 

There are many things you can spray to stop your dog from digging, you just need to find what works best for your pup!  

Can I Give My Dog Benadryl To Calm Him Down? Text Size Issue

You should not give your dog Benadryl to calm him down – there are other solutions that may be more helpful. When you have a dog with lots of energy, it makes sense that you’d look for ways to help him chill out. While Benadryl is generally safe for dogs in correct doses, this shouldn’t be your first option when dealing with a very active, or even an anxious, dog. Also, always talk to your vet before giving your pet any type of over-the-counter medication.

Benadryl’s Purpose and Calming Side Effect

Vets often prescribe Benadryl for dogs, but it’s usually for allergies or itching. One of the side effects is drowsiness, which is why some pet owners turn to the drug as a way to calm a dog. It’s important to remember, however, that just because something has the desired effect doesn’t mean it’s the best way to achieve the results you need. 

As with any drug, using it regularly over a long period of time can have negative effects on your dog’s health. It can also cause immediate health concerns in dogs that have certain health conditions such as heart failure, glaucoma, lung disease, and more.

Drug-Free Ways to Calm Your Pet

While there are many websites that talk about how safe Benadryl is, responsible pet owners will always check with their vet before dosing their dogs. There are times when drugs will be the best option, but there are often other ways to deal with very active or anxious dogs. These include: 

More Exercise

Giving your active dog plenty of time to run is a great way to calm him down. Long walks, time at a doggy day care, trips to the dog park, or tossing a ball around your yard are a few ways to allow your dog to be more active.

Prevent Boredom 

Giving your dog’s brain a workout is just as important as giving his body a workout. A puzzle toy that makes your pup work for a treat is a great way to engage your dog’s brain and help curb boredom.

Proper Training

One common complaint among dog owners with very active dogs is that it’s difficult to walk them because they are always pulling on the lead or otherwise misbehaving. This conduct can be changed with proper training. Even the most energetic dogs can be taught to “leave it,” “stay,” and “sit,” and most owners are surprised how quickly proper training kicks in.

Change His Food 

This is one option that many pet owners don’t consider, but food can have a big impact on your dog’s behavior. What do you think would happen if you ate nothing but junk food? Dogs are subject to the same negative effects of food as humans. If you’re feeding lower-quality food, upgrade to a premium product. If you’re not sure how to choose the best food for your dog, check out our Dog and Cat Nutrition page or talk to your vet for advice. 

So, can you give your dog Benadryl to calm him down? Yes, but there are likely much better and safer ways to deal with the issue. Talk to your vet, trainer, or other animal expert to discuss the specific needs of your pet and to develop a plan that will give you the best chance of success. 

Will Mothballs Stop Dogs From Digging?

Mothballs may act as a deterrent to stop some dogs from digging, but they are toxic to dogs and should not be left in a place where a dog can access them. Instead, find a repellant that isn’t potentially harmful to your pet. In order to effectively stop digging, you should first try to figure out the reason for the behavior, as that will help you address the cause rather than the digging itself.

Mothballs and Dogs 

Mothballs are poisonous to moth larvae (that’s kind of the point!), but they are also harmful to dogs and cats. Symptoms include:

  • Vomiting and Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Fluid Accumulation
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Excessive Thirst
  • Loss of Appetite 

In the most severe cases, death can occur. This is obviously not something you want around your dog. Instead, here are a few tips to help you stop your dog from digging:

  • Boredom is a common cause, so make sure your dog gets plenty of walks and playtime.
  • Some dogs dig to cool off. If your dog must be left outside in the heat (which is never ideal,) make sure he has access to shade and plenty of water.
  • Have you seen signs of burrowing animals in your yard? If so, your dog may be digging to hunt. Call a humane exterminating company that will safely remove such animals from your yard.
  • If your dog is digging around the fence, he’s probably trying to escape. In this case, you need to keep him safe by either not leaving him alone in the yard or by shoring up the fence with chicken wire or by burying it one to two feet beneath the ground. 

Mothballs are not the answer, but there are many other ways to stop your dog from digging. Don’t give up! With a little patience, you’ll find the solution that works for you.  

How Do I Find a Good Home for My Maltese?

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to find a new home for your Maltese, there are many resources available to help you through the process. You never want to make the mistake of giving your dog to just anyone because they may not be a good fit for your Maltese. Below are some things you’ll need to do to ensure that he goes to a great new owner.

Know What Your Dog Needs

You’ve spent more time with your dog than anyone else has, and this means that you know their personality and their needs better than others. You also know his quirks, both good and bad. Does he love getting brushed? Does he chase cats? Does he snap at children? Maybe he needs to be on a special diet, or he needs to take medication each day.

Your goal is to find an owner that will accept the good and the bad, and that can provide your dog with the care he’ll need. After all, you want him to go to a home that will love him and keep him healthy, happy, and safe for the rest of his life.

Talk with People You Know

One of the first options you may want to consider is finding your Maltese a home with someone you know. You might have a friend or a relative that has been looking for a hypoallergenic dog for their family. They could be a great solution, especially if they already know and like your dog.

However, you can’t simply give your dog to someone that you know without thinking about your dog’s needs. Make sure that it’s the right fit first and ask questions to find out how they plan on caring for your dog (the same way you would of a stranger).

Just keep in mind that when they’re in the new home, you’ll want to give it a few months before you visit. This will allow your dog to see the new home and family as theirs, and they won’t try to come home with you.

Take Your Time to Find the Perfect Owner Online 

You might not know someone personally that’s looking for a dog. Fortunately, the internet has made it easier to find people looking to adopt. Of course, you shouldn’t just use any classified ad site to advertise your dog—you never know who is on those sites or what their intentions are.

Instead, choose a site that’s built specifically for people who want to adopt a dog. Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com, is a great solution. The peer-to-peer adoption platform is easy to use and is free for owners. Adopters only pay a small rehoming fee that’s similar to what they would pay to a shelter or rescue.

You can create a detailed profile for your dog through Rehome that includes photos, videos, and a bio. Remember to make the bio as detailed as possible, including the personality and quirks of your Maltese. Your Maltese’s bio is then uploaded directly to Adopt-a-Pet.com for millions of potential adopters to see. Once you start receiving applications, Rehome will provide you with tips on how to choose the right adopter, and will even help you with the contract process. It’s a straight-forward and safe way to make sure you’re doing right by your dog. 

How Long Does it Take Labrador Retrievers to Get Used to a New Home?

If you’ve recently adopted a Labrador retriever, you might be wondering, “how long does it take a Labrador Retriever to get used to a new home?” Some people get frustrated when a new dog doesn’t fall right into their family’s established routines, but the truth is that it can take weeks or even months for a dog to fully become used to his new home. Dogs that have been shuffled around or who have been through traumatic experiences typically take longer to adjust.

Don’t Give Up On Your Pet

When a new Labrador Retriever is still having trouble getting used to his new home even after a few weeks, some pet owners start to think they didn’t find the right fit. Don’t give up! It might take some extra time and effort, but he WILL come around. If he gets sent off to a new home, he’ll have to start from scratch, and you’ll have to start over with a new dog.

One thing that will help is properly transitioning a dog in to your home. Most shelters and rescues will provide information on how to do this. Tips may vary somewhat based on the history and behavior of the dog, but a few pointers include:

  • Provide a Crate: Even if you don’t plan to crate your dog when you’re not home, crate training is a good idea. When properly handled, the dog will view the crate as a safe place.
  • Don’t Yell or Hit: Yelling at or hitting a dog will never bring about the desired results. Instead of helping your dog learn to follow commands and to be confident, he’ll become timid and fearful. Instead, learn how to get your dog’s attention by using a stern voice when he does something wrong and by praising him when does something good.
  • Training Classes: Quality training classes aren’t just about teaching your dog to behave; they are also about teaching you how to be the leader your dog needs. Taking some training classes with a reputable trainer could make a world of difference.

The reward for your patience and hard work will be a Labrador Retriever who is loyal and obedient for life! 

What Does it Mean to Rehome a Dog?

Rehoming a dog means means finding a new home where your dog will be safe and loved. This is different from surrendering your dog to a shelter or rescue because you’re helping your dog go from your home right into another home. When you take the time needed to rehome the dog, you’re able to choose a family that is a perfect fit for your pet.

How Do I Find a Home for My Dog? 

Before you start searching for a new home for your dog, be sure that you have tried everything to keep him in your home. Talk to your vet, local trainers, and animal welfare groups for advice. You can also view our Keep Your Pet guide here. If you find that you still need to rehome your pet once those efforts are exhausted, here are some tips to keep in mind: 

  • Think twice about rehoming your pet through classified sites. Many people troll such sites looking for dogs to use for nefarious purposes.
  • Always charge a rehoming fee. Giving dogs away “free to a good home” is never a good idea because you want the new adopter to demonstrate that they are serious about providing a great home for your furry friend. Charging a rehoming fee of $50 to $150 shows that the adopter has some financial resources to commit to the dog and eliminates certain risks, such as your dog being sold to a lab.
  • Use available resources to make finding a home easier. Rehome is a website dedicated to helping responsible pet owners find the perfect home for their dog or cat. The service allows you set up an eye-catching profile and to connect with potential adopters at no charge. Applications are submitted right through the site, and you’ll even find helpful tips about screening potential homes, and much more. 

If you absolutely cannot keep your dog, take the time to ensure he’ll be happy with a new family. It’s the right thing to do—both for your dog and for your own peace of mind.