What to know before adopting a rescue dog
Adopting a rescue pet is one of the most rewarding decisions. I’ve adopted both of my dogs — Louie from the Toronto Humane Society and Rocco from Golden Rescue, based in Ontario, Canada. When you adopt a dog, you’re giving them a second chance at life and gaining a loyal companion. However, the adoption journey comes with responsibilities and considerations that are important to understand before bringing a new pet home. Here are some things you need to know before taking the plunge and adopting a dog.
Understand the Commitment
Rescue animals, whether dogs or cats, may come from difficult backgrounds. Some have been abandoned, neglected, or abused. Others may have been surrendered due to changes in their previous owner’s circumstances. This means they might need time, patience, and a stable environment to feel secure.
Ask yourself:
Do I have the time to train and bond with this pet?
Am I ready for potential behavioural challenges?
Can I financially support a pet’s needs (food, vet care, grooming)?
Research the right pet for your lifestyle
Not every rescue animal will be a perfect fit for your home. Consider your activity level, household environment, and experience level:
Active families may be a great match for energetic dogs.
Quiet homes may be better for shy or senior pets.
First-time pet owners might prefer a pet with a known, gentle temperament.
If you already have a dog, think about whether they’d get along with another one. Are they territorial, or are they relatively easy-going? If you are adding a second dog, their personalities must match. This will help them get along much better.
Talk to the shelter staff—they often know each animal's personality and can guide you toward a good match. Also, go spend some time with the dog if this is something the shelter or rescue organization allows. If you have a dog, ask if you can bring your dog to meet the pup you are considering adopting. It’s a good way to assess their compatibility. Before adopting Rocco, Golden Rescue invited me to bring Louie to a meet and greet. We went on a walk together to see how the two dogs behaved around each other. Louie needed to be comfortable with Rocco and vice versa.
Prepare your home
Before adoption day, make sure your home is ready:
Pet-proof your space by securing electrical cords, household cleaners, and small items.
Set up a dedicated area with a bed, food and water bowls, and toys.
Ensure everyone in the household understands the boundaries and routines.
If you have other pets, prepare for a gradual introduction. Separate spaces and controlled interactions can help avoid stress.
Be ready for an adjustment period
Your new pet may not immediately feel at home. The first few days—or even weeks—can be overwhelming for a rescue animal. They might:
Hide or avoid people
Have accidents indoors
Show signs of fear or anxiety
Give them space and build trust slowly. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behaviour, and stick to consistent routines to provide a sense of safety.
Invest in training and healthcare
Many rescue pets benefit from basic training to help them adjust to their new environment. Enroll in a positive-reinforcement training class or work one-on-one with a certified trainer if needed.
Don’t forget:
Schedule a vet visit soon after adoption.
Keep vaccinations, parasite prevention, and microchip info up to date.
Discuss any behavioural concerns early with a professional.
Adoption is a lifelong promise
While it’s tempting to focus on the joy of adoption day, remember that this is a lifelong commitment. Pets thrive on stability and love. Over time, many rescue animals blossom into affectionate, confident companions who return your care tenfold.
Final Thoughts
Adopting a rescue pet is a journey filled with ups and downs—but mostly love. By preparing ahead, being patient, and giving your new pet the time they need to adjust, you’re setting the stage for a successful, lifelong bond. When you open your heart and home to a rescue, you’re not just saving a life—you’re changing two.