What You Need to Know
Curious about adopting one of these dogs but don't know what they need what you need to to be able to provide?
These retired service dogs often need more from you as an adopter than other dogs do. This means that preparation and knowing exactly what their needs are is incredibly important for any aspiring adopter.
Here you'll be able to find everything you need to know and more!
But First...
Step-by-Step Adoption Process
Now that you know you're the right person for the job, here's a basic walkthrough of what the typical adoption process looks like for one of these dogs!
Step 1
First of all, you need to find a place where you can adopt one of these dogs. These dogs can be found in specialized adoption centers such as HoundHaven or the agencies which raised them like the PDEA.
Search
Step 2
Visit
Take a visit to the shelter or agency and get to know the dogs there. Spend time with them and find one that seems to work well with you. Get to know the staff as well so they can help you.
Step 3
Trial
Step 4
Training
Step 5
Adoption
Before you choose to adopt your chosen canine companion, it's important to have a supervised trial period where you can see how you and the dog feel with each other in a home environment.
This is where you can work with the shelter or hire a professional to help you with any additional training the dog might need for homelife.
Congratulations! It's finally time to bring your new companion home with you! All that's left is to help them settle in and continue to take care of them. We've got tips below on the various things to keep in mind once they've settled in!
Adopter's Handbook
Adopting a retired service dog can come with it's own difficulties and responsibilities. Here we've compiled some common concerns and tips to help with your journey alongside your new companion.
Medical Problems
These dogs often retire due to old age or medical reasons that make them unable to continue to be in service. They're prone to having medical and physical ailments that need to be continuously addressed and cared for.
Common Concerns
History and Veterinarians
To avoid being blindsided by medical problems, it's important to learn the medical and service history of the dog from the previous handler or shelter. This will give you an idea of what they might need medically. It's also important for frequent checkups at the vet to catch potential health prblems early on.
Solutions
Anxiety and Energy
Service dogs tend to live fairly active lifestyles during their service. They move around a lot and lived with a sense of purpose. That excess energy and loss of purpose could lead to the dog becoming anxious if left alone inside for too long.
Cohabitation
If you have already have a pet at home, then there is a possibility that the service dog might not get along with them. They could potentially be uncomfortable or even aggressive towards your other pets.
Active Routines
Long walks and playing games with your dog can go a long way in reducing their anxiety. If you're going to be away for a while, it's important to help them expend their energy so that they won't become restless while you're away.
Trialing and Training
This is why it is important to have a trial period with the retired dog to see if they respond well to your pets too. However, even if they aren't friendly to each other atfirst, it is possible to seek help from the shelters or professionals through training to help your furry friends get along.
Triggers
Due to their service, these dogs may potentially have trauma from events during their service. This can cause them to be sensitive towards certain situations. If left unchecked, this could potential result in extreme or aggressive reactions if put under stress.
Gradual Exposure
You can get your retired dog used to these situations through proper training and exposure. Gradual exposure to stimuli which would cause a reaction, and rewarding them when they behave can help these dogs overcome their traumas, even turning this source of stress into something they see pleasantly. However, it's important to do this without distressing the dog, preferably with professional supervision.