WELCOMING YOUR HIPster HOME!

CRATE

All of our foster dogs are crated when left alone. To make the transition from one home to another as seamless as possible, we recommend purchasing a create for your new dog. The crate will provide a safe space for your dog, and it will also prevent your dog from destroying your belongings and eating potentially harmful items. The crate is extremely helpful for house training as well! Just be sure that your crate is large enough so that your dog can stand up, turn around and extend their legs. However, be sure it is not too big, otherwise you may notice your dog having accidents in the crate. Once your dog has settled into their new home, you may choose to continue crating, keep the crate door open, or remove the crate 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 important to slowly transition them. 

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 skiddish 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.

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 is required to see a vet within 2 weeks of adoption. This will help you establish a relationship with your vet and it will 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 crucial for puppies in particular to start off on the right foot with proper socialization and training to prepare them for adulthood. It is much easier to work on a 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 is unable to fund veterinary care for our adopted pups. However, we understand the costs of providing needed or emergency care for your pet. Below is a listing of organizations which may be able to assist.

Please remember, each organization has its own rules and requirements. You will need to determine if you qualify for assistance. This list is also not comprehensive. With some additional research, you might find other organizations that can provide you with the financial assistance you need.

Frankie’s Friends: Frankie’s Friends Fund provides financial assistance grants to family owned pets in need of lifesaving emergency or specialty veterinary care whose caregivers cannot afford the full 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 in order to restore the quality of life for pet and owner.

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