Pawsitively Adopted: Caring for Your New Best Friend

Kat Martin, Gold Award Candidate

About me…

• Hi! My name is Kat, and I’m a ninth-grade student on an exciting journey to earn my Gold Award!

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• I've spent time volunteering at two amazing shelters and rescues, helping dogs — and sometimes even a few adventurous cats — find their perfect forever homes.

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• At home, I live with a wonderfully grumpy beagle who has been one of my greatest teachers when it comes to understanding and caring for dogs.

What do I know about adoption?

• Dogs are happy when they find a forever home

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• Adopting a dog helps saves their life and frees up more (limited) space to help save other dogs

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• It helps dogs who were returned from a previous home, or the breeder didn’t like them, find a good and loving family.

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• Adjustment takes time. Just like adding any family member - adding a dog to your family will be an adjustment for everyone.

Common Reason Dogs are Returned to Shelters…

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• Behavioral Issues (barking, counter surfing, pulling on leash)

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• Compatibility (get a hyper dog for a low activity home or vice versa)

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• Finances (not aware of cost of dog care, vet, food, etc.)

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Things to know about dog behavior….

• If dogs are mock biting you and run away after, they are asking you to play.

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• If dogs look guilty, they are seeking forgiveness for a mistake they made.

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• When your dog grabs a toy and runs, there inviting you to chase. Play along to bond and teach them new tricks.

Bringing Home a Shelter Dog - A Few Final Thoughts…

• Keep things calm and quiet: Limit visitors, loud noises, and new experiences in the beginning. Give your dog time to feel safe.

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• Be patient and consistent. Training and trust take time. Use positive reinforcement, stay consistent with training, and celebrate small wins.

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• Love, not perfection. Shelter dogs may have quirks or past traumas—your patience, kindness, and commitment make all the difference.

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• Expect Unconditional Love.

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