Beyond the 3-3-3 Rule

In this session, Jade Currie, Behaviour & Welfare Manager at The Lost Dogs’ Home, explores the adjustment period following adoption and the important role the veterinary team can play in supporting dogs and their owners through those first weeks and months.

The webinar will explore why behaviour can change as a dog settles into a new environment, why fixed timelines such as the “3-3-3 rule” may not apply to every dog, and how veterinary teams can help owners develop realistic expectations around the settling-in process.

Topics covered

• Understanding adjustment following adoption and why behaviour may change over time
• The limitations of predicting behaviour based on a shelter or previous home environment
• Common behavioural and stress-related challenges following adoption
• Practical advice to help owners support their dog during the transition
• Recognising when additional behavioural or veterinary support may be needed
• Appropriate next steps, including behavioural support, pharmacological intervention and referral

Key learning outcomes

By the end of the session, veterinary professionals will have a better understanding of the post-adoption adjustment period and practical ways to support both dogs and their owners, while recognising when a case may require further intervention or referral.