Rescue Safety Tips

Bringing home a rescue dog is exciting, but remember—they’ve had a big journey, and the world is brand new to them. Let’s make sure they arrive and settle in safely! 

🚗 On The Road – Safe Travels for Your Pup!

• Double up on leads! Take two leads when collecting your new dog—one slip lead and one attached to a collar or harness. This “double leading” helps prevent any unexpected escape attempts!
• Buckle up! Your dog should travel in a crate or securely fastened with a seatbelt harness in the car. 🚨NEVER attach a seatbelt to their collar—a sudden stop could cause serious injury! (You can grab a doggy seatbelt on Amazon very inexpensively.)

 

🏡 Home Sweet Home – Safety First!

• Leash up in the garden! For their first time outside, always keep your dog on a lead—even in a secure garden. We highly recommend a no-escape, three-point harness (find one on Amazon or Pets at Home).
• First 48 hours? Indoors only! As per DEFRA regulations, your dog must stay in your house and garden for the first two days—no outings just yet!
• Keep ‘em close! Use a long line (a.k.a. lunge line) in the garden for the first week to reduce escape risk. These are cheap and easy to find online.
• Double-check gates! Before letting your pup outside, make sure every gate is securely closed (wind, kids, or the postie can leave them open!).

🔎 Microchipping & ID – Don’t Skip This!

• Register that chip! Make sure your dog’s microchip is registered to you ASAP. Your rescue can assist, or do it yourself via Petlog Premium. If you are listening to our audio version, please google, https://www.petlog.org.uk/products/petlog-premium/.
• Tag, you’re it! Have an ID tag ready with:

✔️ Your surname

✔️ Postcode

✔️ Phone number

✔️ On the back: “I’m chipped – scan me” (Super important!)

🎓 Training & Bonding – Let’s Get Learning!

• No off-lead adventures just yet! Until your dog has solid recall, keep them on a lead. This can take months, so patience is key!
• Training = Trust! Enrol in positive, reward-based training classes (your bond will grow, and so will their confidence). Start with “Focus” or “Watch me” to teach them to check in with you.
• Practice being apart! Start leaving the house for short periods early on to help prevent separation anxiety. Don’t leave them alone for more than 3 hours and if you have to, build up to this in the first few weeks.

🐾 First Days & Nights – Expect a Few Hiccups! 

• First night jitters? Some dogs may whimper or feel cold. Try:

✔️ A low night light

✔️ Soft radio or white noise

✔️ Sleeping near them for comfort

• Oops, accidents happen! Be patient—your pup might have a few toilet accidents. Guide them gently to the right spot and reward good behaviour with treats & praise!
• Meeting the resident dogs? Introduce them outside first—either in the garden or on a parallel walk. This helps avoid territorial issues and lets them check out their new turf.

Final Reminder – Your Rescue Needs You! 

Your dog has travelled over 3,600 miles and everything is brand new. They don’t know you yet, and they’re still figuring things out. Be patient, kind, and extra cautious—keeping them safe is your top priority!

Now go enjoy your new furry family member—they’re going to love you forever! 🐶💕