Jamestown  (CSi)  The James River Humane Society reminds those who received an animal as a Christmas gift, to keep in mind that it needs time to adjust to its new surroundings in the home.

On Friday’s Wayne Byers Show on CSi Cable JRHS, Board Member, Jay Nitschke said “The Magic Threes,” are a good way to remember how a new pet needs to adapt to the home and family members.

They are:

Three days to decompress, from being at the shelter, or another home, and possibly three times three days, if the animal is shy.

Three weeks to know the regular routine of the home members, after the Christmas routine.

Three months to feel at home, in its new surroundings.

She says the pet will also need to adjust to a family member who has been away, for a period of time, and returns to the home.

She adds to be patient with the dog or cat, while they are adjusting to their new home.

The principle applies to both dogs and cats.

On another topic, Jay said new memberships are welcome, and at various donation levels, and includes the newsletter.  The dollars go toward such areas, as the costs of spaying and neutering the animals before adoption, and other shelter costs.

The James River Humane Society is located off the I-94 Bloom Exit and is open seven days a week, from 9-a.m., to 11:30-a.m., and 5:30-p.m., to 6:30-p.m, or by appointment.

Call 701-252-0747, and go on line to jamesriverhumanesociety.org