Q. I am thinking of getting a second pet, either a cat or dog, for my rescue pup. Any tips for an easier transition?
A.
Adding a new companion to the family can be easy and joyous or a pure disaster. By following a well thought out plan, many of the pitfalls can be avoided.
Before bringing a new companion home, assess your current dog’s personality, fears, anxieties, and other needs. The new companion needs to have a personality that will work with your companion. If you have a pushy, domineering kind of guy, you wouldn’t want to bring in a similar personality. When bringing in a cat, be sure your companion has experience with cats. Ensure your best friend is comfortable with the idea of a new addition and that you have the time, resources, and room for a new addition.
You have found a dog or cat that seems a perfect match for your best friend. Introduction needs to be mindful. Introduction may take time. Not just for your current pup but also for the new member. Take it slowly and give both safe space.
Introduction is made in steps. If you are introducing another dog, start at a neutral space. A safe yard or park is needed. The dogs may need to have drag lines on for safety. Be alert and carefully watch the body language. If you are not sure of signals of concern in your dog and the new member, have a friend or trainer there for the meet and greet. If that goes well, it is time to go home. Have a safe place for the newcomer like a crate or room. Introduce the pets at a distance through a door or baby gate. When they are both comfortable, interaction is the next step. Limit the time together at first with supervision. Always have a safe place available for each to get away to if stressed. If you see this happen, it is time to separate them. The introduction step can happen quickly or take some time. Depending on the personalities it can take days, weeks, even months. You need to be observant of behavior changes and intervene before it escalates. Sometimes you need help from a professional.
Feed dogs separately to avoid resource guarding. Possibly feed them in crates or separate rooms. When training, work with each dog separately. You will have better focus and success. Try to keep your current dog’s routine as you add the new guy.
Adding a cat to the family is similar to adding a dog. First you need to know if your dog is comfortable with a cat and well behaved around cats. Keep the cat in a separate room to start. Next is to let the cat explore the rest of the house when the dog is outside, so their odor is mingling. Supervised interaction and have safe places for the cat to hide are very important.
Generally, there is a 3-3-3 rule. The first 3 days are to decompress and adjust to the new environment. The second are 3 weeks for feeling comfortable and developing a routine for cats and this is the time to add training and building trust for dogs. Finally, it takes 3 months for the cat and dog to truly settle in. For dogs it is a time for socialization, continued training, and solidifying the bond between the newcomer and the family.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com