Caring for a dog with a traumatic past comes with several unique responsibilities, and it requires a lot of empathy and commitment on the owner’s part. It’s crucial for any dog that carries emotional scars from their previous experiences to have a safe and nurturing environment to fall back on and exhaustive care from an involved fur parent.
Simply choosing to adopt a dog with a painful past can do a lot to improve their quality of life. Every successful adoption also reduces the plight of animal shelters, which are often overcrowded and low on resources. But there’s a lot that you must do to facilitate the healing and growth of your rescue pup. Here are nine things you should do to help your dog recover from their trauma:
1) Be Patient and Understanding
Rescue dogs that come from traumatic backgrounds may have deep-seated fears and anxieties, and they’re likely to manifest these for a while. It also takes time to earn the trust of a traumatized rescue dog, so remember to be extra patient with them. Avoid rushing interactions or forcing them into uncomfortable situations.
Understand that your rescue dog’s behaviour might initially be reserved or anxious, and this is normal given their past experiences. Instead of forcing camaraderie from the get-go, let your dog come out of their shell at their own pace.
2) Establish Routine and Consistency
Dogs thrive on routine, so creating a daily schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime can help them adapt to their environment and feel at ease in their new home. A regular schedule reassures them by reducing their anxiety level and making their environment more predictable. When they know what to expect—something they may not have experienced in their past—a dog will be more likely to relax and bond with their new family.
Start things on the right foot (or rather, paw) for your new canine by making a timetable for them. For example, you can schedule their walks after their meals or make a habit of putting their custom dog collars on them before every walk. These small habits will help them understand what’s next and feel confident about how to react to their environment.
3) Use Positive Reinforcement Training
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for helping rescue dogs with traumatic pasts. This training method involves rewarding good behaviour with treats, praise, or toys to encourage dogs to repeat specific behaviours. It is a much better alternative to punitive measures or harsh training techniques, as these are sure to exacerbate a rescue dog’s fear and anxiety.
Sticking to positive reinforcement will not only help with basic obedience; it will also build the dog’s confidence and trust in you as their caregiver. Ultimately, your positive reinforcement-driven training regimen can create a strong foundation for a loving and respectful relationship between you and your rescue dog.
4) Provide Your Dog with Opportunities for Socialisation
Socialization is vital for rescue dogs with traumatic backgrounds. But remember that traumatized dogs can be fearful of unfamiliar situations, so it’s essential to keep introductions controlled and low-stress in nature.
Start this process by introducing your dog to new people, animals, and environments in a gradual manner. Over time, increased socialization can help your dog build their morale up and reduce their fear of unfamiliar animals, people, or surroundings. Just be sure to keep to your dog’s pace and monitor their comfort levels closely so that you can check how extensively they’ll be able to interact with others.
5) Cordon Off a Restful and Peaceful Corner of Your Home for Them
A traumatized dog will want a safe haven to retreat to when they’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious. Knowing that, set up a corner of your home that they can hide in when they need a breather. This designated area, such as a crate or a quiet corner, should be comfortable and easy to retreat to. You can also fill it with familiar items, like blankets and toys that your rescue dog loves to snuggle up to.
6) Maintain Their Checkup Schedule
Some traumatized dogs may have undisclosed medical issues that require attention, and it’s important for you to address any underlying health concerns they may have if you want them to live happy and healthy lives.
Set up a checkup schedule so that you and your dog’s vet have ample opportunities to discuss vaccination, flea and tick prevention, and spaying or neutering if these have not yet been done. Your vet can also provide guidance on maintaining your dog’s physical health and give you practical tips for ensuring that they have the best possible start in their new home.
7) Make a Priority of Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Engaging in activities like daily walks and play sessions will not only keep a dog physically fit; it will also help alleviate the stress and anxiety that may have built up in them from being locked up, neglected, or put in a similar traumatic situation.
Mental stimulation through tricks and puzzles can also be particularly helpful in redirecting a dog’s focus away from past traumas and building their confidence. Make an effort, then, to provide adequate exercise and mental enrichment to your rescue dog, both of which are key components of a happy and well-adjusted life.
8) Give Them Sufficient and Nutritious Food
Next, you’ll also want to ensure that your rescue dog observes a balanced and nutritious diet. Speak to your vet or dog nutritionist to determine the most appropriate diet relative to your dog’s age, size, and activity levels.
Traumatized dogs may have unique dietary needs or sensitivities compared to ordinary dogs, so a professional’s guidance can help ensure they receive a diet that will truly facilitate healing and strength. They say that food is good for the soul, and it does a lot to support a dog’s physical and emotional healing as well as a human’s.
9) Consult a Professional Trainer or Behaviorist for In-Depth Concerns
Sometimes, the challenges presented by a rescue dog’s traumatic past require the expertise of a certified dog trainer or behaviourist. These professionals specialize in rehabilitation and can provide personalized guidance to address specific issues your dog may be facing.
Professional help can make a significant difference in your dog’s rehabilitation journey, no matter if they’re dealing with severe anxiety, aggression, or other behavioural problems. Getting the input of a professional trainer or behaviourist is also a step in ensuring your dog’s well-being and the safety of your household. If you’re not confident about your initial approach or if you feel like you need extra insight into one of your rescue dog’s behaviours or habits, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
One of the most rewarding transformations that a dog owner can witness is that of a fearful and anxious rescue dog into a confident and loving companion. Such a change will be a testament to the power of patience, understanding, and unwavering commitment to the dog’s wellbeing.
While it may be hard at first, know that you can have a hand in shaping a dog’s life so that it’s characterized by happiness and warmth. Take your cue from the suggestions above and give your rescue dog a tail-wagging new lease on life.