This is why we partnered with Samantha Randall, the editor-in-chief at Top Dog Tips<\/a> on our long-running Rescue Me series. Samantha\u2019s monthly column covers everything from adopting shy dogs to cat rescue to being a good dog foster. If you have a question about any part of the pet adoption process, it\u2019s likely answered here.<\/p>\n Being a foster parent for pets is a rewarding experience, but you need to be sure that you are ready<\/em> to do it before jumping in. As someone who has had the pleasure of fostering several dogs, Samantha compiled a list of tips for aspiring foster dog parents.<\/p>\n READ HOW TO BE A GOOD FOSTER PARENT<\/a><\/p>\n When you adopt a pet, you might not know what kind of personality they have. However, if you do<\/em> know that the dog you wish to adopt is shy and timid, then you can take certain steps to ensure that he or she will feel comfortable right from the start. Samantha has been in situations like this in the past, so here are some of her personal tips for how to adopt a pet who might be bashful.<\/p>\n READ 7 TIPS FOR ADOPTING A SHY DOG<\/a><\/p>\n There are many unwritten rules that all pet owners should be aware of when adopting dogs and cats, and making sure that the organization you\u2019re adopting from is reputable is tops on many people\u2019s lists. Here are 10 that will help you decide whether you\u2019re making a responsible choice when adopting from a breeder or rescue organization.<\/p>\n 10 WAYS TO AVOID PUPPY MILLS<\/a><\/p>\n You can never predict how a dog will react to a new environment. It\u2019s not uncommon for some dogs to be content at the shelter and a little testy in their new home. If you have young children, a dog\u2019s unexpected behavior switch can be a real concern. Bringing a rescue dog into a home with small kids means you have to take extra steps to ensure the safety of your children as well as your new pet.<\/p>\n WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RESCUE DOGS AND KIDS<\/a><\/p>\n Adopting a rescue cat is a wonderful way to get a grateful and loving companion while also saving a life. Cats may seem to be easier to adopt than dogs, if only because they seem to be a little more self-sufficient. But before you impulsively run to the shelter or a rescue group to get a new cat, there are a few things to consider. Over the years, Samantha has rescued a few cats and offers some tips so you can make the right choice.<\/p>\n NINE TIPS FOR ADOPTING A RESCUE CAT<\/a><\/p>\n People surrender their dogs for many reasons. Often, dogs are surrendered because the owners cannot handle the animal. In these cases, it\u2019s usually due to the pet being a very high-energy dog. There\u2019s nothing wrong with a high-energy dog, but if you are thinking about adopting a hyper or high-energy rescue pooch, you must be prepared for the challenge. Here\u2019s what you should know before you make your decision, including such basic things like \u201cWhat do we mean by high-energy dogs?\u201d<\/p>\n ADOPTING A HIGH-ENERGY DOG<\/a><\/p>\n Ultimately, you want your adoption to be a success for everyone involved. To conclude our Complete Guide to Pet Adoption, we detail ten things that you can do to help ensure that your experience (and that of your new dog or cat) is a positive one.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t always go for the first pet you feel drawn to. Research breeds and spend a lot of time with your potential new family members before sealing the deal.<\/p>\n Make sure you have a harness or collar, leash, food and water dishes, a bed and a kennel as well as some books or videos on crate training.<\/p>\n Many pet owners surrender their pets because of behavior problems that can be traced back to inadequate exercise. Have a realistic exercise plan in place to get your cat or dog the physical and mental stimulation they need.<\/p>\n Digestive issues can make a time of change even more difficult on your pet. Find out what food the shelter fed your pet and either stick with that or follow suggested guidelines for changing formulas<\/a>.<\/p>\n Usually a kennel, sometimes their own bed or a room; all pets need a place where they know they can get some time alone. Creating this haven gives your pet a place to alleviate their anxiety or, at the very least, a simple place to call their own.<\/p>\n There may be times that your pet just wants to be alone. Hard to believe, we know.<\/p>\n Training is more valuable than you can imagine, and every pet could benefit from it.<\/p>\n If you come home and find your pet has had an accident in the house, bringing them to the accident and yelling is just confusing and scary. When this happens, a short \u201cNo\u201d will stop it, and then you can take them outside.<\/p>\n Temporarily minimize your pet\u2019s exposure to new people and places until they are well adjusted to you and your family.<\/p>\n Decide on boundaries and enforce them right away.<\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.diamondpet.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/french-bulldog-on-leash-waiting-on-doorstep-033121.jpg\")
<\/p>\nHow to Be a Good Foster Parent<\/h2>\n
Adopting a Shy Dog<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.diamondpet.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/close-up-mixed-breed-puppy-behind-chain-link-fence-033121.jpg\")
<\/p>\nAvoiding Puppy Mills<\/h2>\n
Rescues and Small Children<\/h2>\n
![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.diamondpet.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/close-up-domestic-shorthair-cat-033121.jpg\")
<\/p>\nTips for Adopting a Rescue Cat<\/h2>\n
Adopting a High-Energy Dog<\/h2>\n
Tips for a Successful Pet Adoption<\/h2>\n
1. Choose the right dog or cat for your family.<\/h3>\n
2. Have everything you need before you bring your new pet home.<\/h3>\n
3. Put an exercise plan into place immediately.<\/h3>\n
4. Transition your pet\u2019s food slowly.<\/h3>\n
5. Give your pet a safe space.<\/h3>\n
6. Give your pet enough room to adjust.<\/h3>\n
7. Get into training ASAP.<\/h3>\n
8. Only discipline during the bad act.<\/h3>\n
9. Avoid overwhelming your pet with new places and new people.<\/h3>\n
10. Set clear boundaries.<\/h3>\n
![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.diamondpet.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/tips-for-a-successful-pet-adoption-033021.jpg\")
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