‘Trust before training’: How to help a rescued dog settle into your home

India's stray and rescued dogs present a challenge that transcends mere numbers, impacting public health, animal welfare, and municipal governance. As of 2019, an estimated 203.31 lakh stray dogs and cattle roamed the nation. Sanjana Sharma of K9 Coach emphasizes that rescuing a dog marks the start of a fresh journey for the animal and its new family.

Compassion is evident in India, with people showing care through simple acts like providing water, food, or assistance to injured dogs. Malabica Chakraborty, Founder of Wagging Tales Foundation, advises against unnecessary handling to allow rescued dogs to adjust at their own pace. Once comfortable, a health assessment is conducted to address urgent medical needs, followed by clean accommodation, fresh water, nutritious food, and necessary medical care.

The focus is on patience, compassion, and gentle handling, aiming to restore trust and safety for rescued dogs. Unlike puppies from stable homes, rescued dogs may carry fear or anxiety from past experiences, which can influence their behaviour. Training these dogs requires patience, consistency, and establishing trust. Sanjana Sharma, a dog trainer, believes that training should not alter the dog's inherent nature but help them feel secure enough to thrive.

Megha Paul, Founder of M&M Waggy Tales, advocates for positive reinforcement, rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or affection rather than punishment. Simple commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave can be introduced gradually through short, enjoyable sessions. Socialization should occur at the dog's pace, with controlled exposure to people, other dogs, and new environments to build confidence.

If aggression, extreme fear, or separation anxiety is present, professional guidance is recommended. Creating a calm environment and providing consistent care are vital for rescued dogs to feel at home again. Responsible coexistence involves respecting neighbours by keeping shared spaces clean and safe, extending care to the community and those living nearby.