Rescued animals have often lived through fear, hunger or loss. Even friendly animals need time to feel safe in a new home. Many adopters find the "3-3-3" guideline helpful:
- 3 days — overwhelmed. The animal may hide, not eat much, or seem shut down.
- 3 weeks — settling in. Learning the routine; personality starts to show.
- 3 months — feeling at home. Trust and bonding grow.
Before arrival
- Prepare a quiet "safe room" with bed, water, food, and a litter tray for cats.
- Remove toxic plants, cables and small objects that could be swallowed.
- Buy the same food the animal ate at the rescue, to avoid stomach upsets.
The first week
- Keep it calmLimit visitors. Let the animal explore at its own pace.
- RoutineFeed, walk and play at the same times each day.
- Introduce other pets slowlySwap blankets for scent first, then short, supervised meetings.
- Positive onlyReward good behaviour with treats and praise. Never punish fear.
- Schedule a vet visitWithin the first two weeks.
We stay in touch after every adoption. If anything worries you, contact us — we're here to help.