Not all poodles react the same way to the same situation. One
poodle who is abused, for instance, may become hostile and start
snapping and biting. Another abused poodle may become overly submissive.
Still a third may remain bright and trusting as if the abuse had
never taken place.
Before adopting a rescue poodle, it's important to spend some
times with the dog and learn about its unique temperament. It
is not advisable to adopt a dog who bites and snaps. No matter
how sorry you feel for it, it is not worth the risk to you, your
family, and your friends.
While there are no hard and fast rules, there are a few emotional
symptoms that your rescue poodle might display.
Depression
Poodles have the capacity for almost boundless loyalty. They
become very attached to their owners, and when this tie is severed
for whatever reason, they grieve much as humans do. Your rescue
dog may still be missing its original owner.
You can help by offering your adopted poodle plenty of love and
reassurance. Exercising with your dog regularly may help elevate
its mood, as may regular playtimes. If your dog continues to seem
depressed, talk to your vet about the possibility of medication.
Clinginess
Your dog has already lost one precious owner; it doesn't want
to lose you. Therefore, your rescue poodle may be afraid to let
you out of its site.
It's important to provide your pet plenty of love while also
setting clear boundaries for acceptable behavior. For instance,
your poodle should sleep in its crate at night. If it whines and
cries, talk to it gently but firmly. It may help to place a towel
or blanket with your scent in the crate. Some dogs also sleep
better if the television or radio is left on at a low volume.
Nervousness/Anxiety
Poodles tend toward nervousness anyway. Chances are with all
the changes it's been through, your rescue poodle's anxiety is
very high.
You won't be able to solve this problem overnight. Make sure
your dog has a regular schedule so that it always knows what to
expect and when to expect it. Your own behavior should be calm,
authoritative, but never threatening. Do not hit or scream at
your dog for any reason.
Health Problems
Your rescue poodle may have gone without adequate nutrition for
a period of time. It may not have gotten the appropriate vaccinations
and check-ups either. It's important to have your rescue poodle
checked out by your vet as soon as possible.
Rescue poodles likely have not been groomed properly. Make brushing
and combing a daily part of your routing, and get your new pet
in to see a professional groomer as soon as possible. Since your
poodle will not be a show dog, consider getting a Kennel Clip
which is easier to care for than the show clips.
Your rescue poodle may be shy and subdued for the first few weeks
after you get it home, but with time, consistency, and lots of
love, it will soon be a fine pet for you and your family.
Many people see poodle rescue as the best way to get a pet poodle,
but there are pros
and cons of poodle rescue. The next article examines whether
or not adopting a poodle is the right choice for you
Attention: To discover how
YOU can have the Happiest, Healthiest and Best Behaved Poodle,
get a copy of this Poodle Guide
NOW!
