Unlocking Happiness: Building Confidence and Trust with a Rescue Dog (Part 2)

In this second part of our series looking into Rescue dogs, we will discuss how to assess behavioural challenges, reduce stress, and build confidence in rescue dogs, helping them transition into their forever homes.

In Part 1, we explored how meeting a rescue dog’s fundamental welfare needs—such as proper diet, enrichment, and a suitable environment—can set them up for a better life. However, a crucial part of a rescue dog’s rehabilitation is addressing their mental and emotional well-being. Many rescue dogs have experienced neglect, trauma, or significant upheaval, making behavioural support just as vital as their physical care.

Caring for Rescue Dogs: Building Confidence and Trust

1. Assessing and Managing Behavioural Challenges

Each dog in rescue care comes with a unique history, making individual assessments essential. A comprehensive evaluation should involve:

• Veterinary check-ups: To identify any underlying health issues contributing to behaviour problems.

• Behavioural assessments: Conducted by trainers and behaviourists to determine stress triggers and coping mechanisms.

• Ongoing monitoring: Progress should be tracked over time to adjust training and rehabilitation plans (Juster et al., 2012).

One of the biggest challenges in kennels is stress. Kennels can be noisy, unpredictable, and overwhelming. Simply walking past other stressed dogs can trigger fear-based reactions due to the lingering scent of stress pheromones left by other dogs (Van der Laan et al., 2021). Studies also show that noise levels (Coppola et al., 2006) and disruptions to routine (Tuber et al., 1999) increase stress levels in shelter dogs.

Since stress is nearly unavoidable, rescue teams should focus on stress reduction techniques, such as:

• Daily exercise: Physical activity helps release dopamine, the body’s natural "feel-good" hormone.

• Calm handling techniques: Avoiding forceful interactions and using positive reinforcement.

• Safe spaces: Providing areas where dogs can relax without constant stimulation.

2. The Importance of Matching Dogs with the Right Homes

A successful adoption depends on matching a dog’s needs with the right home environment. Considerations should include:

• Does the dog need a stable canine companion? Some rescue dogs thrive with a well-socialised role model.

• Would the dog do better as a single pet? Some dogs struggle with resource guarding and need one-on-one attention.

• Does the adopter understand the commitment? Providing potential owners with training support and realistic expectations helps prevent returns.

Even with the best efforts, some rescue dogs are returned to shelters. In Canada, 14% of adopted rescue dogs were returned due to behavioural challenges (Friend & Bench, 2020). In the UK, the rate is even higher at 20% (Pets4Homes, 2022). This issue is particularly concerning for large breeds or dogs with a history of aggression. With the upcoming XL Bully breed restrictions in the UK (Dalton, 2023), the number of surrendered dogs may rise.

To prevent failed adoptions, rescues should:

• Provide ongoing training programs for adopters.

• Set realistic expectations about behavioural challenges.

• Offer post-adoption support to ease transitions.

Final Thoughts

Rescue dogs face significant challenges, but with structured behavioural support, stress management, and the right home placement, they can overcome their past and thrive in loving families.

By ensuring that all five welfare needs are met—including mental stimulation, structured environments, and stress reduction techniques—rescues can dramatically improve a dog’s quality of life.

If you are considering fostering or adopting a rescue dog, remember: patience, consistency, and understanding can make all the difference in their journey toward a better life. If you are thinking about fostering or adopting a rescue dog the right support can make all the difference. Contact PoochWise for expert guidance in helping your rescue dog settle, build confidence, and thrive in their new home.

References:

Coppola, C.L., Enns, R.M. and Grandin, T., 2006. Noise in the animal shelter environment: building design and the effects of daily noise exposure. Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 9(1), pp.1-7.

Dalton, J., 2023. Fears blameless XL Bully dogs could be put down or dumped as owners sell animals before ban. Available at: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/xl-bully-dogs-ban-kill-sell-b2412484.html Accessed: 02/11/2023

Friend, J.R. and Bench, C.J., 2020. Evaluating factors influencing dog post-adoptive return in a Canadian animal shelter. Animal Welfare, 29(4), pp.399-410.

Juster, R.P., Perna, A., Marin, M.F., Sindi, S. and Lupien, S.J., 2012. Timing is everything: Anticipatory stress dynamics among cortisol and blood pressure reactivity and recovery in healthy adults. Stress, 15(6), pp.569-577.

Pets4Homes, 2022. Canine rehoming and its failure rate. Available at: https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/canine-rehoming-and-its-failure-rate.html

Tuber, D.S., Miller, D.D., Caris, K.A., Halter, R., Linden, F. and Hennessy, M.B., 1999. Dogs in animal shelters: problems, suggestions, and needed expertise. Psychological Science, 10(5), pp.379-386.

Van der Laan, J.E., Vinke, C.M., van der Borg, J.A.M. and Arndt, S.S., 2021. Restless nights? Nocturnal activity as a useful indicator of adaptability of shelter housed dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 241, p.105377.