Post-Adoption Resources
Have you just brought home a fluffy friend and are not sure where to start? Below, you'll find valuable tips and essential contacts to ensure a smooth start. We’ll soon also be interviewing experts such as trainers, vets, biologists, nutritionists, and individuals dedicated to animal rescue work to inform you about current and relevant topics.
THE BASICS
Items that might make your life as a new dog parent a little easier:
Safety harness - Three body straps ensure more safety as the dog can not as easily remove themselves in situations of anxiety and stress.
Biothane towline leash - Allows for more control and safety, especially in the first weeks, as it ensures the dog cannot escape while giving them freedom to roam. The biothane material is sturdy and easy to clean. Lengh, width and color can be personalised.
GPS tracker - Some rescue dogs come from traumatic conditions and might be prone to run off in situations of stress (loud noises, interactions with other dogs etc.) A GPS tracker can give you an extra level of safety, especially in the early stages.
Kong - The toy is good for keeping your dog occupied, calm, and can especially helpful when training your dog to stay home alone. (Any similar product will do the same trick)
Tasso Registration
If you’re based in Germany, register with Tasso to receive a unique ID for your pet. The tag and ID provided will help trace your dog back home, incase they get lost.
Medical Insurance
Getting your dog medically insured can seem like a big investment, but it’s worth it—especially with illnesses such as Babesiosis on the rise due to increasing tick populations. Many insurances, such as Lassie, also offer plans that allow free regular medical checks, tick and worm treatment, so you can visit the vet more regularly to prevent diseases before they spread.
Contact a trainer
Find below a list of trainers we recommend. It’s always a good idea to get a head start on training to avoid any issues that may arise. Decide on what type of training might be most useful for you given your dogs characteristics and problematic areas.
vet-check
Although certified rescue organisations should ensure the necessary medical treatments beforehand, it’s always good to get a check done after your furry friend has gone on what can sometimes be a long journey. It’s also good to find and establish a trusted relationship with a vet, before you get into a tricky situation. Through Felmo you can easily book a vet appointment online. They also offer vets to come to your home, which can be especially helpful when dealing with scared pets.
Recommended contacts
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Marion Pepper
Dog Trainer (Berlin)
Marion Pepper, an experienced behavioral biologist and dog trainer, offering a range of tailored methods to meet your and your dog's needs. Her mobile practice ensures training takes place where it will yield the best results for your goals. Whether teaching basic commands or addressing complex issues, Marion is dedicated to helping you and your dog live harmoniously. Additionally, group training sessions for puppies and young dogs are available. Visit page
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Lars Thiemann
Dog trainer (Berlin)
Lars Thiemann has been a dog trainer and behavior consultant since 1994 and has gained nationwide recognition for pioneering professional dog walking services. His dog school in Berlin offers customised, one-on-one lessons for owners and dogs. Services include behavior consultation, dog training, home visits, assessments, socialization in packs, street training, and theoretical education. Visit page
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Cookie and Friends
Dog Trainers (Berlin & Online)
Besides offering dog walking services, Cookie and Friends also has a team of experienced dog trainers lined up to help you and your dog. Besides offering basic training of puppies & young dogs, some of the trainers are also specifically focused on working with dogs from shelters. On top of that video coaching is available as well as group courses focused on leash training. Visit page
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DR. MED. VET. SUSAN KRÖGER
Animal Nutritionist (Berlin & Remote)
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Karola Stumpf
Dog Physiotherapist (Berlin)
*Currently most of our recommended contacts and services are based in and around Berlin, Germany. Please know that we’re working very hard on providing resources that span across all of Europe.
Tipp
Signing your dog up with a dog-walking service is a great way to guarantee that your dog receives the necessary physical stimulation and socialisation. It's important to provide your dog with ample time in a safe off-leash environment with other dogs. Below are some dog-walking services that come highly recommended.
Still Have questions?
Stay tuned for articles, success stories, and interviews to gain valuable insights from animal welfare, training, and rescue experts. Our forum is another great way to connect with, and exchange personal questions and answers with people who have adopted or are in the process.