Set up before they arrive
Set up a quiet corner with a bed, water bowl, and crate before arrival day. Having a calm, dedicated space ready means your dog can decompress immediately instead of wandering a chaotic house.
The essentials
These are the things your dog will need from the very first day.
- ✓ Dog bed. Something soft and washable. Rescue dogs may not have had their own bed before, so keep it simple.
- ✓ Crate. A crate gives your dog a safe, quiet space to decompress. Size it so they can stand, turn around, and lie flat comfortably.
- ✓ Food and water bowls. Stainless steel or ceramic. Avoid plastic, which can harbour bacteria.
- ✓ Lead. A standard 1.5 to 2 metre lead. Avoid retractable leads for the first few weeks as they give you less control.
- ✓ Collar with ID tag. Your contact details and your dog's name. This is a legal requirement in most countries.
- ✓ Harness. Many rescue dogs have never walked on a lead. A harness is more secure and more comfortable than a collar alone, especially while your dog is still learning.
Food
- ✓ A bag of good quality kibble suitable for your dog's size and age
- ✓ If you want to switch brands later, do it gradually over 7 to 10 days by mixing the old and new food together
- ✓ Pick up some small, soft training treats for rewarding good behaviour in those early days
7-10 days
to gradually switch food brands
Comfort items
Your dog has just travelled a long way and everything is new. A few comfort items go a long way.
- ✓ Blankets. Old towels or fleece blankets for the bed, the crate, and the car. Expect some accidents in the first week.
- ✓ Kong or chew toy. A stuffed Kong keeps anxious dogs busy and gives them something positive to focus on. Freeze it with peanut butter for longer lasting distraction.
- ✓ A couple of soft toys. Some dogs love them, some ignore them. Start with one or two and see what your dog enjoys.
Frozen Kong trick
A frozen Kong with peanut butter is a great way to keep your dog calm and occupied. Prepare a couple in advance and keep them in the freezer so they are ready when you need them.
Safety
Rescue dogs can be unpredictable in a new environment. A little preparation prevents problems.
- ✓ Baby gates. Useful for blocking off stairs or rooms while your dog settles in. They let your dog see and hear you without having full run of the house.
- ✓ Car harness or travel crate. You will need one for the first vet visit and for any car journeys. A secured crate in the boot or a crash-tested car harness both work well.
- ✓ Poo bags. Buy more than you think you need. Stress can cause digestive changes in the first few days.
You do not need everything on day one
It is completely normal to add things as you go. Focus on the basics first and build from there as you learn what your dog likes and needs.
Grooming basics
You do not need a full grooming kit straight away. Just the basics to keep your dog comfortable.
- ✓ A simple brush or comb suited to your dog's coat type
- ✓ Dog shampoo (not human shampoo, which can irritate their skin)
- ✓ Nail clippers or a nail file. Your vet can also do this at the first visit if you are not confident.
First vet visit supplies
Book a vet appointment within the first week of your dog arriving. Bring these along.
- ✓ Your dog's pet passport and all veterinary paperwork from the rescue
- ✓ A list of any questions you have about your dog's health or behaviour
- ✓ Treats to reward your dog for staying calm at the vet
Every dog from My Paws Bosnia arrives fully vaccinated, neutered, microchipped, and with a pet passport. Your vet can register the microchip to your name and set up ongoing parasite prevention.
Book your first vet visit before your dog arrives
Many vets have wait times of a week or more. Booking ahead means your dog gets seen within the first few days, when it matters most.
Still looking for your dog?
Browse our available dogs and start your application. We will help you every step of the way.