When we assess our dogs, one key thing we determine is whether they can live with another dog. Some dogs would be better off as an only dog as they don’t want to share affections or resources. Other dogs need to live with another dog to help their confidence as they adapt to home life (or they just need a fun playmate!) We also assess whether the companion dog needs to be another sighthound – for our ex racers, they may have only ever known other greyhounds, so a different breed (especially a small one) may be too confusing for them. Then of course, you get dogs who will have no real preference.
It goes without saying, the same works for any resident dog too, they have to be happy and comfortable with their new housemate.
That’s why when we receive a home offer and there is a dog in the family already, they have to be compatible with the dog they are applying for. If it is a match (i.e. both dogs would like a companion), we then ensure we carefully introduce the dogs to each other to see how they interact, diligently observing their body language. Sometimes this ‘mix’ may need to be repeated more than once as the dogs get to know each other. Where we want to double check that the dogs will get on in a home environment we may request a foster-to-adopt agreement, whereby, the dog goes home on a trial basis. If both dogs get on, the adoption papers can be signed!
Saying all that, pictured is Forever Hounds Trust adoptee Muttley (was Suzie) and her bed buddy Fang who absolutely love having each other for company!
International Women’s Day