Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission at no expense to you. Affiliate links are marked with the asterisks (*)
When you adopt a pet, you need to help them settle into your home. It’s important to follow the 3-3-3 rule of pet adoption.
While all animals have their own personalities, they all follow very similar trends when it comes to new homes. I’ve just recently adopted another dog, and four-and-a-half years ago I adopted my female husky. The 3-3-3 rule is something I followed for her, and it’s something I’m following for the new addition to the home.
This rule is usually applied to those being rescued from a shelter. However, it applies to taking any new pet in and giving them a furever home.
What is the 3-3-3 rule of pet adoption?
The rule is all about time. It takes 3 days for a pet to decompress, 3 weeks for a pet to start to get settled, and 3 months for a pet to get fully acclimatized to the new living space.
I will also had a 3 year rule based on something that I noticed about my first rescue. She was used for breeding her whole life. I’m not going to get into the debate about breeders. I just know that she didn’t get the life of a traditional dog, and that was something she had to figure out when she moved in. After three years, her full personality came out and she is finally acting like a dog. It’s so beautiful to see. When I travel, I make sure to find quality pet boarding services. If you have a cat, cattery Melbourne is a great option to ensure your feline friend is well cared for while you’re away.
MORE: Make sure you get this pet camera for your pets*
The first three days are the hardest
During the first three days, your rescue needs to decompress. It’s an overwhelming time as they have new surroundings and noises.
My latest husky has been used to having plenty of space to just run around. There’s a lot of dog noise but not a lot of people and life noise—he’s from the same breeder. Now he’s in a house with children and only two other dogs (who are not your traditional huskies!). He has to deal with sirens and fireworks in the local area. He doesn’t get to run outside as much, but I do take the dogs on a lot of walks to make sure they expel their energy.
It’s a big change. Some pets will hide in a corner or under the furniture. Others will test boundaries to see what they can get away with. Others will sniff around and explore as they figure out the safest and best spots in the house. They may not eat that much, or they may only want to eat in their safe spots.
Work with them during this time. It’s stressful.
It’s worth starting routines in this time. Don’t force any interactions unless you need to, such as putting a leash on for a walk.
MORE: If you don’t have pet insurance, you need to do this instead
The first three weeks get them used to routines
In the first three weeks, your new addition is getting used to your routine*. They have to forget everything they’ve learned before, and that’s not going to be easy. The good news is that the more consistent you are with the new routine, the quicker they will get it and become confident in it.
As they start to get settled, you can start with some training and set the expectations of the house. After all, this is when behavioral problems can set in. Positive reinforcement is important at this point.
If you start to see your pet testing some boundaries, this is actually a good thing. They’re feeling more settled and they realize that you’re not going to hurt them for making mistakes. They’re just seeing what they can get away with. As you reinforce the good behavior, the bad will stop.
Three months gives time to build trust
At the three-month mark, your new pet will have had time to bond with you. The more time you spend around them—not necessarily touching them, but just being in the same room—the quicker this process can happen. Don’t try to rush it, though.
At this point, your pet has established a trust. They know when walks are, and when they can expect meals. They know where to go potty, and they know the toys to play with.
It’s still important to reinforce the good behavior. You may also switch from treats* to affection as they let you pet them more.
The more they bond with you, the more their personalities will come out. There may still be memories of the past, especially if they were abused, but good interactions with you will help them. This doesn’t mean they will be social creatures with other humans, though. Some pets just prefer their human and not others.
MORE: How walking my dogs improved my work at home lifestyle
Have you had experience of the 3-3-3 rule of pet adoption? Share your experiences in the comments below.