64 WWW.BEMOREDOG.CO.UK
RESCUING A PUPPY PATRICIA MCGRADY IS THE OWNER AND FOUNDER OF BE MORE DOG ESSEX. SHE IS CERTIFIED WITH THE CIDBT, A KIDS AROUND DOGS PROFESSIONAL, AND MEMBER OF THE CFBA. PATRICIA IS ALSO VANITY FUR MAGAZINE’S DOG BEHAVIOURALIST. If you are thinking of getting a puppy, then rescuing is a wonderful thing to do. Our rescue centres are overwhelmed at the moment. I believe this is partly due to the lockdown and those who have returned to work and can no longer look after their dogs. Taking in a rescue is a great way of helping these centres and giving a puppy a chance of the wonderful life they deserve. Whether you are taking in a young pup at 8 weeks or an older dog of 6 months, here are some tips to help get you off to a great start with your new addition to the family. The first few days for any dog being rehomed can be scary and overwhelming. Focusing on bonding and showing the
puppy that it is safe is the most important thing you can do at this stage. Feeling secure and their welfare overrides everything when it comes to dogs. This is especially true for young pups. There is no need to rush ahead with socialising. Obviously, if they are very young and undergoing vaccinations, they will not be able to venture outside until they have immunity. If your puppy is older and has had its vaccinations, it is still worth spending some quiet time to create a loving bond, helping the puppy feel safe and getting to know one another before venturing out into the big wide world. When a puppy is born, the mother will provide warmth, company, food,
