Successfully Raising and Loving Your Rescue Dog is a heartfelt, practical guide for anyone opening their heart and home to a rescue dog. I was drawn to this book in memory of my own two beloved rescue dogs who have passed on, and I found the author’s thoughtful insights both comforting and inspiring.
The book begins with a strong foundation—pet-proofing your home—an often-overlooked but critical step in welcoming a new dog. Chapters on choosing a veterinarian and ensuring proper vaccinations are thorough, yet accessible, especially for first-time adopters.
One of the standout features is the section on common rescue dog behaviors, particularly anxiety and separation anxiety. These honest, realistic insights help normalize challenges new pet parents may face and offer thoughtful, compassionate strategies to manage them.
I particularly appreciated the chapter on common mistakes people make when bringing a dog home. The author wisely cautions against offering too much affection too soon, giving too much freedom, or allowing the dog to rule the house—three well-meaning but potentially harmful habits.
The 3/3/3 rule—what to expect at three days, three weeks, and three months—gives a grounded, helpful framework for understanding your rescue dog’s emotional and behavioral adjustment timeline.
Basic training is covered with clarity and organization, including 10 essential commands to build structure and mutual respect. The training advice is practical and manageable, even for beginners.
Finally, the book ends on a warm and powerful note, emphasizing the deep bond between humans and rescue dogs. The author reminds us that rescue dogs are resilient, adaptable, and deserving of all the love we can give.
The photo of Chula, a dog who survived unthinkable hardship, serves as a beautiful tribute to the strength of these animals. This book is a must-read for anyone beginning their journey with a rescue dog.
https://www.amazon.com/Successfully-Raising-Loving-Rescue-Step-ebook/dp/B0DHSKQ1RK
