Anxious Dogs from Animal Rescue

It is by no means unusual for dogs from animal rescue to react anxiously. Many of these animals have experienced a traumatic event or were not properly socialised before they came into their new home. These experiences can cause a dog to become insecure and to find it difficult to build trust in people. There are various kinds of fears a dog can have. Some are afraid of loud noises such as thunderstorms or fireworks. Others are afraid of strangers or fellow dogs. Some dogs even suffer from a generalised anxiety disorder, in which they show fear of many different situations at the same time. I would like to help you interpret these signals caringly.

From animal rescue into the new home

When a dog is adopted from animal rescue, a few things must be observed in order to enable the animal a successful settling-in. The arrival of an anxious animal in the new home is often a great challenge. However, there are proven methods to help the dog feel safe and secure. First of all, it is extremely important to give the dog time and space so that it can get used to its new surroundings and the new people. This means never overwhelming the dog and offering it enough rest and places to retreat to. A basket with a blanket, in which the dog feels safe, is very helpful here.

Another important factor is consistent, loving care by the new dog owners. It is important to use positive reinforcement in order to caringly encourage the desired behaviour. Rewards such as treats or gentle cuddles can help to strengthen trust and the bond sustainably. It is decisive, however, to let the dog come of its own accord and not to build up any pressure. Time is one of the most important factors here. Some dogs need up to 6 months to really settle in. Since dogs are very individual, this cannot be generalised. There are also animals that never fully lose their fears and build deep trust only in a single person of reference.

What supportive treatment options are there

There are various ways to help an anxious animal caringly. Some dogs benefit from gentle desensitisation and a special behavioural therapy. The use of Bach flowers or other herbal remedies can also be helpful to ease the fears in everyday life. In cases of very strongly pronounced fear, it is advisable to seek professional help from behavioural specialists.

• Patience and time as the most important factors of the entire settling-in
• Creation of safe places to retreat to in the new home for the animal
• Positive affirmation instead of pity or unnecessary pressure
• Expert support for particularly traumatised animals

In summary, it is important to understand that anxious dogs from animal rescue often have a difficult past. Appropriate support and care are decisive here in order to help the dog overcome its fear. Dog owners must be clear about what may come their way and must always put the dog's needs first. Giving it a lovely home is an important step, but often much active work as a team is also required.

Recommended animal welfare organisations for an adoption

We at DOG FIT can wholeheartedly recommend the animal welfare association Friends for Life e.V. This organisation caringly looks after Romanian street dogs that live under difficult conditions and often have no prospect of a happy life. The association is a trustworthy organisation that gives these animals a second chance. They campaign for placement in a good home and are expertly supported in the care on site.

The dogs are looked after by competent foster homes and lovingly prepared for their new life. In addition, the organisation ensures that the animals are thoroughly examined and vaccinated before departure, so that they are healthy and ready for their new families. Every contribution can help to change an animal's life sustainably and to give it the chance of a happy life. A website offers you further information about this extremely important work.

This article serves as general information and for the caring raising of awareness of the needs of rescue dogs.