It’s difficult to imagine why anyone would buy a pet when there are so many adoptable pets in shelters around the country. But there are a few things you must understand before adopting a pet.

Unless you are adopting a small puppy, your dog has a history. Maybe this dog came from a loving home and was tragically displaced. Maybe the dog was a victim of abuse.

Either way, your new dog has a story.

Much like when you date someone who has had serious relationships before yours, your dog carries memories, and possibly scars, from her past. The difference is that your dog can’t tell you what happened. Dogs can’t tell the people at the shelter either. In most cases, we’re all just guessing.

How to tell if a dog has been abused

Well-adjusted dogs will usually be comfortable in any situation. If your dog specifically shies away from men or certain objects, it’s a sign that he may have been abused.  

A previously abused dog may also be withdrawn, distrustful or depressed. He or she will probably prefer to live in the background and will make very little noise.

What to do if your pet has been abused

If you suspect that someone in your life may be abusing your pet without your knowledge, the first step is obvious. Take whatever measures necessary to ensure that your dog is never alone with that person.

If you have adopted a pet that dealt with abuse in the past, there are steps you can take to help him or her recover. Just know that the road will be long and some subtle signs of the abuse may remain.

Make him feel loved – The first step is to shower your new dog with love and affection. Make him feel like he is important to you, and earn his trust.

Do not force anything – If your pet isn’t acting socially around your friends, that’s okay. Just let her be. If she doesn’t want to use a specific leash, try another one. Assume there may be reasons for her fears and try not to force anything that she is clearly against.

Protect him from his fears – Even if his fears are irrational, send the message that you will protect your dog. If your dog is afraid of every man he encounters, approach it gently. Instead of forcing your dog to spend time with men, try to let him get to know men gradually and ensure you’re always by his side when he does.

Feed her a balanced diet – Just like us, dogs need the right nutrients in order for their bodies to work properly. Without the right balance of nutrients, your dog is more susceptible to depression, which can aggravate the situation.

Try a natural remedy – Homoeopathic remedies can help bring your dog’s body back into balance, which can give him the foundation he needs to recover. Although these remedies treat the body, they also work to bring the mind to a state of balance and are often used to treat behavioural issues.

We see this type of situation so often at HomeoAnimal. It’s so much more common than we might think, but we do have methods to help improve the quality of life for these poor dogs.

Congratulations on making the decision to help a dog recover from abuse. With the unconditional love they provide, no dog deserves to be scarred by the impact of having had a damaged owner.

Good luck on your journey!