This ‘most overlooked’ dog is still hoping to find a forever home after 900 days of ignorance

Eric–the Dutch herder–is approximately three years old and has spent almost all his life in the RSPCA’s animal shelter. He, along with his mother and seven siblings, was rescued by the centre in October 2019. Since then, he has seen all of his family go off to their new homes as he still waits to find his.

Home-seeker

For the most part of his life, Eric was a part of an investigation and a legal case, because of which he wasn’t eligible for rehoming. However, in January 2021 he was finally signed over to get rehomed. He has been on constant adoption lists ever since but has been going through hard luck finding a home. Considering he has had no real exposure; it will be slightly overwhelming for him and his owners to care for him. Everything about household life will be new to Eric after spending 900 days in the kennel.

He needs a very specific rural home where owners have experience in handling his breed and catering to an under socialised dog. RSPCA is still working on making him more adaptable. He has a tendency of getting anxious around unfamiliar situations, people and noises.

In his anxiety, he lashes out and becomes a little unpredictable. As such, the animal centre will work with his new owners and teach them the tricks that have worked well for Eric so far. Despite leading a sad life, Eric is hopeful that he will be welcomed into a new loving home someday.

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Easing a new dog in

The idea of adopting a dog is far more beautiful and easier than the reality of it. After all the initial groundwork comes the labour of welcoming the furry baby into your house and making the transition as easy as possible. Here are some tips that will help you ease in the dog in their new house:

Be calm

While on your way home after picking up your dog, be very calm. Since they will be leaving a familiar environment, it can be overwhelming for them.

Be a tour guide

Once you reach your area, take your dog around for a walk and familiarise them with their new environment so they get used to it. Do the same once they enter the house, give them a tour while they’re still on leash.

Give space

While you’ll be excited to introduce the new baby to everyone, they may still need time to adjust. Give them space and keep it intimate for a few weeks after their arrival.

Bond time

If you have other pets living in the same house, carefully introduce them to each other. A new dog may get intimidated by an older pet or intimidate them; ensure they have a cordial bond.

While these tips are helpful, please know that every dog is different and reacts differently to changes. Be sure to get complete details on your dog’s behaviour before adopting them.