The 3/3/3 Rule

Written By Guest User

The perfect pet doesn’t happen overnight.

The 3/3/3 Rule is a general guideline for the adjustment period of a pet after adoption. Every pet is unique and will adjust differently. It takes…

3 DAYS TO DECOMPRESS

Signs include:

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • May feel scared or unsure of what’s going on

  • Not yet comfortable to be himself or herself

  • May not want to eat or drink

  • Shuts down and/or hides under furniture

  • Tests the boundaries

3 WEEKS TO LEARN THE ROUTINE

Signs include:

  • Starts settling in

  • Feels more comfortable

  • Realizes this could be his or her forever home

  • Figures out his or her environment

  • Gets into a routine

  • Lets his or her guard down; may begin to show his or her true personality

  • Behavior issues may start to appear

3 MONTHS TO START TO FEEL AT HOME

Signs include:

  • Finally feels completely comfortable in his or her home

  • Begins to build trust and a true bond

  • Gains a complete sense of security with his or her new family

  • Sets into a routine

Guest User
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