In most cases (unless you’re rehoming dog from the UK from us), your new pet will be traveling from the Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia. This journey takes a total of 48 hours, including numerous breaks for potty, meals and updates, with over 24 hours spent on the road. It’s important to recognize how potentially stressful and disorienting this journey can be for a dog, especially a young puppy, which many of ours are. Our shelter and team do a fantastic job preparing them, including acclimating them to travel and crate life. Sometimes, dogs receive travel sickness medication to prevent upset stomachs, though we firmly oppose sedating them.
Upon arrival, the dogs are usually excited and eager to be on solid ground. However, some may be a bit reserved, shy, or disoriented. This reaction is entirely normal, given the long trip and separation from their familiar environment and littermates.
It is recommended to avoid showing them your entire home in the beginning, as this may seem stressful and daunting. It also helps set boundaries for them not to follow you around and feel more secure in their designated area especially for when you leave the home. They’ll need a few days to adjust to their new surroundings and the transition to living with their forever family. It is also recommended to use a slip lead as well as an ordinary leash clasped on their harness to prevent them from escaping, especially when walking them outside during the first week.
In the first three days, monitor their toileting closely. Check if their stools are soft, runny, or firm, and ensure they are pooping regularly. Observe their interest in food and eating habits, and note their sleeping patterns. It’s natural for any dog to need time to acclimate, especially after such a lengthy journey. According to DEFRA regulations, your new dog must remain at your home for 48 hours before leaving the premises. This allows them to rest and decompress properly in their new environment.