Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

We have finally been approved by the rescue organization and can go pick up our dog tomorrow!

I have to go out today to get everything she will need (she's a 2 year old lab). Does anyone have a good list of necessities that we should have right from the start?

We both grew up with dogs (our parents still have them) but it has been a long time since we had to go shopping for dog supplies!

She seems to be very laid back so I am hoping it is a smooth transition, but any tips would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

I don't have any suggestions, but wanted to say COGRATULATIONS!!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Thank you!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Hmm ... leash, collar, bowls, food, dog bed, crate if you plan on crate training, some toys ...


Congrats too!!

Message edited 6/26/2009 1:39:08 PM.

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Congratulations! I would find out what they are feeding her now and buy a small bag of that food first. Then research different brands and slowly wean her to the new food over a week period. If you change her suddenly, you'll probably have poop problems.

Do you have extra plastic shopping bags? You're going to need those for poop patrol.

If you have old towels to set aside for them, for walking in the rain or wiping muddy paws before she comes in the house.

The best toys in our house are a Kong (with Natural Balance treats that get shoved inside), Nylabones, and hard plastic balls. She might be gentle, but ours rips anything soft to shreds.

A crate is always a good idea, she will be a little insecure at first and it will give her some security. Maybe a blanket or a pad for the bottom for comfort.

When you get a leash, do yourself a favor and get a 6 foot non retractable at first. If you teach her to walk nice on that, then a retractable would be good. Oh and nylon is easier to clean and holds less odors than collars made out of thread.

When you get bowls, go for the stainless steel with the rubber bottoms so they don't slide around. Plastic can absorb bacteria and give them pimples believe it or not, and since Labs are voracious eaters, the bowls will be everywhere if they're sliding around.

Lastly, a sheet or cover for your car if you don't want her hair on your seats.

Sorry this is so long. Congrats and good luck! Can't wait to see pictures!!!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Thank you so much!!

We do know what type of food she is on now - it's a very expensive weight control formula, since apparently the previous owners gave her a lot of people food. We will continue with it until she loses the last few pounds (only about 2 to go!) and then wean her onto something else.

She currently does not have a crate and supposedly never had one, so we were not going to get one, but if it seems like she is anxious the first night we can get one from my parents' house.

The nylon collar and regular leash were our plan so I am glad to hear that is the right thing to do for now!

I appreciate all the advice!!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

If you do consider the crate, it's good for if you want to leave her there alone or travel with her. We first had him in the crate until he learned the rules of the house and was completely housebroken. Now he's un-crated all the time but it's convenient if I'm vacuuming the house and he thinks it's playtime or if we are putting together furniture. He can still be around us, chew on a toy in his crate, but not locked in a room or be underfoot. Just something to keep in mind.

I'm very happy for you! Which rescue is she coming from?

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

I remember reading that because they are used to being in a smaller space at the shelter, that you should limit access in your home at first. As in not to let them just run in and have free reign over the whole house the first day. I believe it said to limit them to either just the kitchen or the kitchen & living room and as you see they are getting comfortable with you and their surroundings, to expand into another room, etc..

Can't find where i read it, but it sounds pretty logical Good luck!!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

The dog has been fostered for the last two months, and has had free reign of the house much of the time, or limited to a bedroom when necessary. She is two years old and completely housebroken too.

Apparently she had a home and a family but they lost their house and couldn't take her wherever they went next and left her (sobbing, from what they say) at a shelter, but the shelter called the rescue organization as soon as she came in since they could tell she was a sweet, great dog.

The rescue organization is called Heart and Soul - and the woman who is fostering her runs it, and takes it very seriously. We had to provide references and they did a home visit and they will go over training and habits with us before we take her home.

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Can't wait for pics.

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Yesterday went great and Amber seems to be adjusting wonderfully! She is a really great dog - we are very lucky!


Okay, I still can't get pictures to post - so there are two in my album!

Message edited 6/28/2009 10:44:33 AM.

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Aw, she's adorable.. congrats!!!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Aww she's sweet! I'm glad things are going well so far. Congrats, again!

Re: Adopting a dog tomorrow! - any suggestions?

Thanks! We had another great day with her. I'm already sad about leaving her to go to work tomorrow. My office is dog friendly, but I think she has to adjust to being home first, since I can't bring her every day. Fortunately I work close enough to come home during lunch - ease her into the process!