Are You Ready to Adopt a Special Needs Dog or Cat?
By K9Reproduction.com Editorial TeamUpdated July 20, 2024
Cats and dogs with special needs face unique challenges to their health and well-being and need someone who can provide extra care and attention—and possibly therapy and special training—all with patience, love, and compassion. Here’s what you need to know before you adopt a special needs cat or dog.
Benefits of Adopting a Dog or Cat With Special Needs
While there can be extra work and financial commitment involved, there are many reasons why you should consider adopting a special needs dog or a special needs cat.
“Working with a pet with a disability will teach you how to be more creative and patient,” says Mary Burch, PhD, a certified applied animal behaviorist. “There’s a joy that comes from knowing you saved—and gave a good life to—a pet that might not have otherwise been saved.”
If you decide to adopt a dog or cat with special needs, knowing what to expect—and preparing your home ahead of time—can pave the way for an easier transition from shelter to home.
Questions to Ask Before Adopting a Special Needs Dog or Cat
Think of the dog first and the special needs next. “First ask about the pet and its energy level, breed, and exercise requirements to make sure that type of pet will fit in their household,” says Gay Wakeland, president and cofounder of Deaf Dogs of Oregon. “Deafness is secondary when it comes to finding a good matching home for the pet.”
When it comes to the animal’s special needs, consider asking these questions before adopting:
When you’re away from home, can the pet be cared for by a dog walker or sitter?
Does the pet have any special medical needs or take prescription medication?
What extra veterinary bills will need to be covered, and how much will this cost?
Can the pet navigate around the house independently?
Do you need to walk the pet on a leash, or can they stay (supervised) in a fenced-in yard?
Are stairs a problem?
Are there certain commands the pet responds to already?
Is there a nearby trainer who can teach you to communicate with or manage your special needs pet?
Does the pet have any behavioral issues related to the disability?
What kind of environment did the pet’s previous home provide, and what should be changed so this adoption is successful?
Tips for Making Life Easier for Special Needs Pets
Be Realistic
“Expect that whatever issues [that] caused the special needs may not disappear with time,” says Terri M. Bright, director of behavior services at MSPCA Angell in Boston. Understand that the animal’s disability could impact your lifestyle, such as making special arrangements if you have to travel with your pet. Even a simple walk around your neighborhood might be different, perhaps requiring a special dog harness.
Seek Advice
There’s a wealth of information available, so turn to credible sources such as rescue staff, animal trainers, veterinarians, behaviorists, and online resources. If the pet has been living in a foster home, talk with the current foster family to get a better understanding of what works for the pet.
Get Training
Budget for any training you might need, perhaps with a certified applied animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist. Look for training methods that rely on preventing problems and using rewards to train new behaviors.
Stay Positive
“These special dogs should be trained with positive reinforcement,” notes Burch. For example, use food and gentle touches to signal that the dog has done something correctly. Also, talk quietly to blind pets before touching them if they’re sleeping or resting so you don’t startle them.
Provide Extra Supervision
Pets with special needs shouldn’t be left to their own devices in an unfamiliar environment. This can mean needing to be home much of the time (at least initially) and having a helper who is trained to fill in when the owner is gone.
Modify Your Environment to Protect Your Pet
Get down on the pet’s level to check for anything that could injure them, similar to baby-proofing a house. For example, if you have a blind pet, check for sticks and branches that could scratch or poke them.
Be Consistent
For any type of disability, it helps to maintain a predictable schedule. Keep the animal’s environment consistent as well.
FAQs
Q: Are there specific breeds more prone to having special needs?A: While any breed can have special needs, certain breeds may be more prone to specific conditions. For example, Dalmatians are more prone to deafness, and certain toy breeds can have more fragile bones.
Q: How can I prepare my home for a special needs pet?A: Modify your environment to be safe for your pet. Use baby gates to block off dangerous areas, and make sure their living space is free from hazards.
Q: Is it more expensive to care for a special needs pet?A: There can be additional costs for veterinary care, medications, and specialized equipment. It's important to budget for these expenses before adopting.
Q: Can special needs pets live a normal life?A: With proper care, training, and love, special needs pets can live happy and fulfilling lives. They may require more attention, but the rewards are immeasurable.
Adopting a special needs dog or cat can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. By being prepared and understanding their unique needs, you can provide a loving home and improve their quality of life. For more information and resources, visit K9Reproduction.com.
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