Bringing an adopted pet home is a process of building mutual trust. Tailoring your approach based on the animal's background is key to helping them truly settle in.

Phase 1: Safe Observation (Week 1)
Prepare a quiet, separate space for the pet, with an open-door carrier as a safe retreat. Avoid direct eye contact or forced interaction during this period. Focus on establishing a basic connection through daily feeding and speaking softly. Key observations should include their elimination habits, eating patterns, and body language when hiding.

Phase 2: Building Trust (Weeks 2-4)
Adjust your approach based on their history: stray animals often need "quiet companionship" to feel secure; retired breeding animals may require gradual introduction to home environments; and pets with previous homes need to avoid triggers from past trauma. Gradually build closeness through scent exchange, such as placing an item with your scent in their space.

Phase 3: Family Integration (Months 1-3)
When the pet begins to explore voluntarily, set up multiple resting spots and water stations along the home's main pathways. Establish a consistent daily routine and create unique interaction rituals. Watch for positive signs: relaxed body language, mimicking your schedule, or actively seeking engagement.

When to Seek Help
If the pet refuses food for more than 3 days, shows self-harming behavior, or exhibits extreme, unrelieved fear, seek professional behavioral guidance or medical assistance promptly.

Every animal has its own adjustment pace. An owner's patience and understanding are often more meaningful than material comforts in helping a pet find its true sense of belonging.