Adopting a pet from the SPCA of Brazoria County is a beautiful beginning—for both you and your new furry friend. Whether it’s your first time bringing home a rescue pet or you’re a seasoned adopter, it’s important to remember that big changes take time.
That’s where the 3-3-3 Rule comes in. It’s a simple way to understand the adjustment period pets go through as they transition from the shelter into your home. With patience, compassion, and support (which we’ll talk about below), you and your new companion will be on the path to a strong, lifelong bond.
🐾 3 Days to Decompress
In the first 72 hours, your pet may feel overwhelmed and unsure. They’re experiencing a new home, new people, new sounds, and smells—and that can be a lot to process.
You may see:
- Hiding, pacing, or being clingy
- Whining, barking, or other stress behaviors
- Not eating or drinking much
- Accidents in the house
Give them a quiet space, keep things calm, and let them adjust at their own pace. It’s okay if they need time. You’re showing them—for maybe the first time—that they are safe.
🐾 3 Weeks to Settle In
Around this time, your pet will begin to understand your daily routine and may feel comfortable enough to start showing their true personality.
You may notice:
- Testing boundaries
- More confidence and curiosity
- Signs of playfulness or affection
- A stronger bond forming
This is the perfect time to start gentle training, reinforce good habits, and continue offering routine and consistency.
🐾 3 Months to Feel at Home
By the three-month mark, most pets truly begin to feel at home. They trust you, they feel secure in their new environment, and they’ve become a part of your family.
Expect to see:
- Full comfort with routines
- Stronger affection and loyalty
- Fewer behavioral hiccups
- A confident, happy pet
Congratulations—you’ve earned their trust, and they’ve found their forever.
💬 You’re Not Alone—Meet Petcademy
To help you every step of the way, all adopters from the SPCA of Brazoria County receive 30 days of free support from Petcademy. This amazing partnership gives you access to:
- Online courses and training lessons
- Behavior and transition tips
- Pet communities for support
- One-on-one advice from certified trainers and behavioral consultants
📈 Here’s how our community used Petcademy in March:
- 118 pet parents supported
- 24 conversations with Petcademy’s team
- 34 lessons completed
- 75 surveys submitted
- 63% engagement rate with adopters
- 27% engagement rate with fosters
⭐ All-time support through our partnership:
- 1,754 total pet parents supported
- 374 trainer conversations
- 1,374 lessons completed
- 1,298 surveys submitted
- 63% lifetime engagement with adopters
- 46% with fosters
This is a powerful tool to help ensure your adoption success—and it’s absolutely free to you as part of your adoption experience at SPCA of Brazoria County.
🐶🐱 Welcome to the Family
Adopting a pet is a journey—and we’re with you for every step. At SPCA of Brazoria County, we’re not just finding homes, we’re building forever families. The 3-3-3 Rule reminds us that patience and love go a long way—and with the added support of Petcademy, you’ve got all the tools you need to help your pet feel safe, supported, and home.
You didn’t just change a life—you saved one. And now you’ve got a friend for life.
SPCA of Brazoria County 
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