Of course it does! It's just not talked about that much. Living in a constantly changing environment deserves special care. Especially when the condition of the coat is an indicator of overall health.
The past doesn't ask questions.
You only know about a few strays what their past was like. Whether they grew up in the cold somewhere in the garden or were always in the basement and never saw the sun... Or simply lived on the street... So it's hard to judge what their fur has adapted to. And even though the undercoat changes quite flexibly throughout the year, it will definitely need some nourishment from the roots .
Diet affects coat
First of all, focus on the basics and give your shelter a quality diet . Love, but also the beauty of the coat, passes through the stomach . Choose carefully, poor people from the street often have foot wounds, joint problems, or other diseases for which someone threw them out (genetic deficiencies in the function of some organs, severe allergies, etc.). In addition, it is also difficult to guess who their parents were and what they received.
Caring for a shelter dog's coat
At the very least, when you bring your dog home and it acclimatizes in a few days, bathe it in a quality nourishing shampoo . Stress from a new family often weakens the immune system and promotes hair loss, so a little extra care is definitely useful. A hydrating conditioner will also not hurt, which will nourish the coat deeply and, in the case of a long-haired stray, will also help with combing.
Beware of memories
Keep in mind that the past of the furry friend is uncertain and you need to be careful . When handling, increased stress in the bath, and brushing afterwards. Many dogs have been punished in various ways and a strange hand movement can trigger old memories. Don't be angry with your partner for this. He will be careful, patient and compassionate. Every wound will heal eventually, show him that you can handle it together.
Life in a shelter
Most shelters keep their dogs in kennels. To keep them warm and to wick away moisture from their fur when the weather is not nice, these dogs usually sleep on straw . And despite all the care of the shelter staff, it is a rule that they go to their new homes smelling of excrement. You may also want to put some perfume on their fur to start with.
Adoption is definitely not an easy decision. But it is really worth it. Because you will pull that innocent soul out of the discomfort of life into the comfort of a family and give them a chance for a better future.
