When introducing a new pet to your home, have realistic expectations.

The “Rule of Three” tells you how long you can expect your new pet to get used to their new surroundings: three days, three weeks, and three months.

Three Days

The first three days are your new pet’s initial “detox period,” where they transition from the shelter to your home. Please keep in mind that this pet has now gone through several transition periods in a very short period of time and may be very stressed. Your home is new and exciting to your new pet- with more stimulation, space, and freedom than is provided in shelter environment.

To help keep your new pet from becoming overwhelmed, WVHS recommends keeping your new pet confined to smaller spaced until they become more comfortable. This could be keeping a new cat in one bedroom or bathroom or a dog on leash with a family member until they become more comfortable.

This transition period can take days to weeks, depending on how quickly your new pet acclimates. Having just one room to get used to minimizes stress for your new pet, and helps you to monitor how well they are eating, drinking, and setting boundaries with potty training (or litter box use).

The first few days require patience from you. Your new pet may hide, be reserved, or shut down. Be patient, and allow them to adjust at their own pace!

Three Weeks

After three weeks, your new pet is will most likely start becoming used to your routine, and start building one of their own. They may have full run of the house at this point, or they may just be coming out of their single room.

Providing your new pet with enrichment and comfort items like: toys, kongs, scratching posts, blankets, beds, perching areas and other accommodations can help them adjust more quickly. If these items are placed in their confinement area to start with, you can then place these items around the house with your new pet’s scent on them, making the pet more comfortable in your home.

Three Months

After three months, your new pet knows they are home. This is the stage where trust begins to build and a true bond is formed. It’s a process to get to this point, but with patience, you and your new family member can get there together!