A British-run animal shelter has issued advice to would-be adopters after their ‘beautiful’ dog Cristal was returned after having found a home.
Los Infiernos Protectora Supporters (LIPS), based in Murcia, said their volunteers’ hearts were ‘collectively breaking’ after Cristal was brought back just two weeks following her adoption.
In a message posted to its followers, the charity warned dog lovers that when adopting a pooch, you must bear in mind the ‘3-3-3’ rule.
It said: ‘This incredible lady (Cristal) has been through more in the last few months than most dogs face in a lifetime – from nursing a litter of pups to being adopted just two weeks ago.
‘We are devastated that she wasn’t able to make it to that crucial 3-week mark where the real magic happens.’
It added: ‘When a rescue dog enters a home, they go through the 3-3-3 rule…
‘Three Days: Decompressing and feeling overwhelmed.
‘Three Weeks: This is the ‘settling in’ phase. Their true personality starts to emerge as they realise they are safe.
‘However, this is also when they might start testing boundaries or showing behavioural quirks because they finally feel comfortable enough to express themselves!
Three Months: Complete integration and a true bond.’
The charity said that Cristal likely never lived in a house or without other dogs before.
‘She didn’t need “perfect” behaviour; she just needed a little more time to realise she was finally home,’ it added.
‘Cristal is a love-at-first-sight dog. She is gentle, resilient, and deserves a family that understands the patience required for a rescue soul to bloom.’
