#foreverhome

‘This Is Your Forever Home’

Home is where my pet is 🏡🐾 #FurryFriend #ForeverHome

part one, part two

a wand and a rabbit (ao3) - CloudyPhan

Summary: just a silly little one part about a cute morning in the phouse. combining my 2 current obsessions song: Red Wine Supernova by Chappell Roan.

attired to defy (ao3) - buskingalbatross

Summary: One of Dan and Phil's favorite board games is Wingspan. At first blush, like many other board games, it can seem a bit complicated. But, once the basics are learned, it becomes clear that really, all Wingspan needs to be is an excuse to look at pretty art of birds and learn facts about them. You don’t have to strategize to have fun playing the game. On days where you’re in a post-New Year’s haze on top of being sick, it’s a game that can require almost zero mental effort.

Backyard Bliss (ao3) - milfbilvy

Summary: Dan and Phil spend some time in the backyard of the phouse, enjoying some quality time together under the shade of their beloved cherry tree.

Coffee and TV (ao3) - p4stmybedtime

Summary: Dan got back from finishing his tour a few days ago so the boys take it easy and enjoy each other’s company during a lazy morning in the phouse.

I Better Die First (ao3) - imademon

Summary: Phil is a ghost, haunting his and Dan's forever home and trying to get Dan to see him.

i found god the moment that i put my lips on yours (ao3) - cutekai

Summary: after a long day at the phouse

I'd like to hang out with you (for my whole life) (ao3) - bunnyslipper

Summary: Mornings in the forever home (featuring the golden pig)

make me feel (ao3) - blossomsphan

Summary: dan discovers a new use for his walk-in closet

next chapter (ao3) - phanwriter

Summary: Dan and Phil unpack the first box in their forever home.

our love keeps the things it finds (ao3) - dbg_708

Summary: The minutes they spent at the top of Manchester, when he first saw Dan in a train station, looking at him out of breath and sweaty in front of hundreds of people, giving him flowers when he was finally coming back home, and kissing him silly in their kitchen all reside in the same crook of his heart: unrelated to and away from his aches and pains.

Phouse Chores (ao3) - SpiritsDJH

Summary: Very loosely based off of the chore segment of the preshow at TIT.

place your head on my beating heart (ao3) - lesbaurinkos (pluginbaby)

Summary: “Do you wanna do it now? Ditch prom.”

Dan can’t help but snort. “There is no prom, you freak, we already closed the game. Prom’s over.” It’s a purely perfunctory argument, of course. He’s already letting Phil tug him to his feet.

Phil smiles even wider, if that’s possible. “Doesn’t matter. I think we get to make the rules here, and I say we’re ditching prom.” And he’s– ridiculous, the whole thing’s ridiculous, and it’s ridiculous how much Dan loves him.

So they’re ditching prom.

(or: slow dances in the kitchen of the forever home)

Real Phousewives London (ao3) - ciarawilson

Summary: Dan orders a dramatically long robe and uses it to win the idgaf war

You're the only story that I've never told. (ao3) - DumbGayVampires

Home is where my pet is 🏡🐾 #FurryFriend #ForeverHome

Rescue dogs come from a variety of backgrounds—some may have been abandoned, others surrendered, and many may have lived through trauma or neglect. No matter their story, when a rescue dog enters your home, it marks the beginning of a new chapter for them and for you. However, adjusting to this new life takes time, patience, and intentional care. Here’s how you can earn the trust of a rescue dog and help them feel comfortable in their new home.

1. Understanding the Importance of Patience

Every rescue dog is unique—while some might settle quickly, others may take weeks or even months to feel at ease. It’s important to remember that building trust takes time. Your new dog may be unsure of people, frightened by certain objects, or even confused by simple things like a doorbell.

Tip: Give your dog space to explore the home and come to you at their own pace. Avoid forcing affection, and instead let them initiate interactions.

2. Create a Safe Space

Your new rescue dog needs a quiet, comfortable space that is all theirs. This could be a cozy dog bed in a corner or a crate with the door left open. Dogs need a place where they can retreat and feel safe if they become overwhelmed.

Ideas for Creating a Safe Space:

Use a crate lined with soft blankets and keep it open for them to enter freely.

Choose a low-traffic area of the house for their bed, away from noise and activity.

Add familiar toys, treats, or scents (like a blanket from the shelter) to provide comfort.

3. Establish Routine and Consistency

Dogs thrive on routine, and establishing one will help your rescue dog feel more secure. Consistent feeding times, potty breaks, walks, and bedtime routines help your dog understand what to expect, reducing anxiety.

How to Create a Routine:

Feed your dog at the same times every day.

Walk and play sessions should follow a predictable schedule.

Use the same commands and cues for training to avoid confusion.

4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Training is essential for rescue dogs, but the key to success is positive reinforcement. This means rewarding good behavior with treats, toys, or praise, rather than punishing unwanted behavior.

Training Tips:

Reward calm behaviors like sitting quietly or coming when called.

Use a gentle tone to communicate with your dog and encourage them.

Be patient with accidents—use them as teaching moments rather than reasons for punishment.

5. Build Trust with Calm, Gentle Interactions

Many rescue dogs may be wary of people, especially if they’ve experienced neglect or abuse. Building trust requires gentle, calm interactions that show the dog they are safe. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them.

How to Build Trust:

Sit on the floor at their level and let them approach you.

Offer treats from your hand to create positive associations.

Speak softly and avoid prolonged eye contact, which some dogs may find intimidating.

6. Give Them Time to Decompress

Rescue dogs often experience stress from their previous environment. When they come to a new home, they need time to decompress. During this period, it’s important to avoid overwhelming them with too much attention, visitors, or new experiences.

Decompression Guidelines:

Limit the number of people or animals they meet in the first few weeks.

Keep walks short and in calm, familiar areas until they build confidence.

Allow them to explore the house and yard at their own pace.

7. Encourage Bonding Through Activities

Bonding with your rescue dog will strengthen your relationship and help them feel more secure. Activities like walks, games, or even grooming sessions can foster trust and connection.

Bonding Activities:

Go on daily walks to explore new areas together.

Play simple games like fetch or hide-and-seek with toys.

If they are comfortable, groom them gently to build positive touch associations.

8. Pay Attention to Body Language

Rescue dogs may not be able to tell you how they feel, but their body language speaks volumes. Understanding what your dog’s signals mean can help you respond appropriately and avoid stress triggers.

Common Signs to Watch For:

Tail tucked, ears flattened: Fear or discomfort.

Yawning or lip licking: Stress or anxiety.

Relaxed body, wagging tail: Comfort and happiness.

9. Introduce New People and Pets Slowly

If you have other pets or expect visitors, it’s important to introduce them to your new rescue dog gradually. A slow introduction prevents overwhelm and helps your dog adjust at their own pace.

Introduction Tips:

Start with leashed introductions to other pets.

Let visitors offer treats and allow the dog to come to them.

Supervise interactions and be ready to step in if the dog seems stressed.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Progress with a rescue dog can be slow, but every small victory counts. Celebrate milestones like the first time your dog wags their tail, eats comfortably, or comes to you for affection. Recognizing these moments builds confidence in your dog and strengthens your bond.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a rescue dog into your home is a beautiful, life-changing experience for both you and the dog. Though the process may come with challenges, the rewards of earning their trust and seeing them thrive are priceless. With patience, love, and consistent care, your rescue dog will come to understand that they are finally safe and truly home.

By following these steps, you’ll not only make your rescue dog feel comfortable but also build a lasting, trusting relationship that will bring joy to both of your lives for years to come.

#rescuedog #foreverhome #HappyEnding #OriginStory #dog #dogs

Anyone in the mood for a happy story?

My aunt was visiting last week. I took her on a short road trip to NW New Mexico. The last stop on the first day was the Bisti Badlands. We got there around 5 pm. At the turnoff there were a couple of dogs in the road. They needed water. One was a puppy. The older dog was skittish and ran away, trying to get the younger dog to follow, but the puppy was running in front of every car, trying to get people to stop. After giving her some water, we tried to get her to go after the older dog. Nope. She wanted in the car. Seemed like she had been dumped.

She looked like a dried leaf, a little sun dried raisin. Every bone was showing. The back haunches were weak and giving out. No muscle. Based on the puppy teeth, she is probably about 3 months old. I couldn't leave her there, so she joined the road trip. My aunt became bed, food & water lady.

Other than dehydration and starvation, she was in good shape. No wounds, clean ears, clear/alert eyes, clear sinuses, all systems working, etc. By the time we got back from our 3-day road trip, my aunt's vacation plans changed. The puppy, now named Bisti, found her human. She has a vet appointment coming up for a full check up and shots.

The bounce back over the last week has been amazing. Just add water and food. She gained 4 pounds in a week, with muscle, energy, and puppy enthusiasm coming back quickly. In a week, she learned her new name and got crate trained/leash trained. She's GREAT in a car. She sits, lays down, stays, has no interest in dashing, stays close when walking, good w/people & animals.