For a Successful Adoption Follow the 3/3/3 Rule

The 3/3/3 Rule is a simple guideline that shelters share with new adopters to help them set realistic expectations when bringing home their new pet. Also called the Rule of Thirds or Decompression Rule, it’s important to know that every pet adjusts to a new home differently. This rule or guideline helps explain each common adjustment phase that pets go through after adoption. Understanding how this rule works helps reduce the risk of the pet returning to the shelter due to unrealistic expectations. It also helps make a happy home for both the pet and the adopter. It’s important to remember that many pets have grown up in the shelter and have only really ever known that type of environment. Many have never been raised in a home so there will be an extra learning curve. 

The rule is broken down into three phases: 3 days, 3 weeks and 3 months. Each phase has general guidelines on what to expect and how the pet is reacting/feeling. 

The First 3 days: Decompression

• Your new pet may feel overwhelmed, scared or uncertain.

• Your new pet may hide, not eat much, sleep a lot, or begin to test boundaries

• Common behaviors in this stage are: pacing, whining, and having accidents

• Your new pet is still trying to figure out if they are safe in this new environment. 

It is crucial to set boundaries from day 1 while also being patient and going slow to help ease the stress your new pet may be experiencing. 

The First 3 weeks: Settling In

• Your new pet begins to feel more comfortable and will start learning your routine

• Their personality starts to show

• This is a crucial point where they begin to test your rules/boundaries

• Training, structure, and consistency are very important during this stage

Consistency is key. By providing consistent training and structure, your pet will be less likely to test the rules/boundaries that you set. During this phase, you’ll learn more about their personality and can tailor training and behavior modifications to suit their needs. 

The First 3 months: Feeling at home

• Your new pet will start to feel secure and bonded with you and your family

• They understand the family’s routine

• They develop a trusting relationship with you and your family

• Their personality shines through

• They develop a stronger attachment and you begin to see more long-term behaviors emerge

Your pet trusts you to keep them safe and secure. By continuing to develop a relationship with them, the more they will feel bonded to you. As the months go by, your pet will show off their personality and become more adapted to your family’s routine.

Again, it is important to know that every pet is unique and each one will adjust to their new home in different ways. This rule is just a guideline and by no means is set in stone for every single animal. Adjustment periods take time and progress, just like our own, isn’t linear and not always perfect. Being patient and flexible is a great way to help the transition from the shelter to the home go as smoothly as possible.