WELCOMING YOUR HIPster HOME!

CRATE

To make the transition from one home to another as seamless as possible, we recommend purchasing a crate for your new dog, as all our foster dogs are always crated when left home alone.

The crate will provide a safe space for your dog and prevent your dog from destroying your belongings and eating potentially harmful items.

The crate is also beneficial for house training! Just be sure your crate is large enough so your dog can stand up, turn around and extend their legs. Otherwise, you may notice your dog having accidents in the crate. Once your dog has settled into their new home, you may continue crating by keeping the crate door open or removing it altogether.

WEE WEE PADS

If you are adopting a puppy who is not fully vaccinated and cannot yet walk outdoors, be sure to stock up on pee pads for training!

FOOD

We are always happy to share the type of food that your pup was eating in foster care so that you can keep their diet consistent as they transition into a new home. Just remember that if you change foods, your pup may get an upset stomach, so it is essential to transition them slowly. 

LEASH & COLLARS

All HIPsters wear martingale collars because they are effective for training and safe. We do NOT permit dogs to leave with harnesses, buckle collars, or retractable leashes.

If the dog you are adopting is skittish or a flight risk, you will be required to double leash; details will be provided to you by your Adoption Counselor. Our adoption fees include a martingale collar, leash, and a Hounds in Pounds ID tag.

*You may also learn more about collars and harnesses on our Back That Collar Up page.

PREPARE YOUR HOME

Be sure to dog-proof your home regardless of how old the dog may be. Be sure to pick up any loose items, remove anything that may be in reach on countertops and put away any valuables.

RESEARCH VETERINARIANS

Your dog must see a vet within two weeks of adoption, as this will help you establish a relationship with your vet and provide a baseline for your dog’s health.

RESEARCH DOG TRAINERS

Training is not optional; it’s a requirement. Trainers can help you set a foundation for your dog, and training sessions are a great way to help you bond with your new dog.

It is particularly crucial for puppies to start on the right foot with proper socialization and training to prepare them for adulthood. It is much easier to work on behavior from the start than to address it months or years in the future.

NEED BEHAVIORAL TIPS?

If you have basic behavioral questions about your pet, such as excessive barking, crate training, house soiling, etc. contact Animal Rescue League of Boston’s Free Pet Behavior Helpline at behaviorhelpline@arlboston.org or (617) 226-5666.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FOR ADOPTERS

Unfortunately, Hounds in Pounds cannot fund veterinary care for our adopted pups. However, we understand the costs of providing needed or emergency care for your pet. 

We’ve included below a listing of organizations that may be able to help.

Please remember each organization has its own rules and requirements. You’ll need to figure out if you qualify for assistance. 

Frankie’s Friends: Frankie’s Friends Fund provides financial assistance grants to family-owned pets needing lifesaving emergency or specialty veterinary care whose caregivers cannot afford the total cost of treatment. 

The Pet Fund: Provides financial assistance to owners of domestic animals in the U.S. who need veterinary care.

Brown Dog Foundation: Offers pet owners in temporary financial crisis an alternative to euthanasia when their pet faces a treatable, life-threatening condition to restore the quality of life for the pet and owner.

Save U.S. Pets Foundation (NJ only): The Foundation ensures that economic euthanasia is not the only choice for responsible pet owners with proven financial hardship when their furry family member needs lifesaving veterinary treatment. They support eligible grant requests for financial access to pets’ medical treatment as submitted by participating veterinarians.

With some additional research, you might find other organizations that can provide you with the financial assistance you need.