Adopting best rescue dog?

Monday July 19th, 2010

Question:

How do I know what I'm getting when I adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue group?

Answer:

This is where your due diligence comes in. Spend lots and lots of time with your potential new family member. I recommend getting to know the dog as much as possible and even asking the rescue group if they will permit a "sleepover" (many do allow this once you've been approved for adoption).

You can't know what you're in for by only spending a few minutes with a dog. A cute fluffy angel of a pup may be adorable when you first meet, but you'll soon find out that he loves to chase cats or barks whenever the radio's on and therefore just won't work with your family.

On the other hand, many dogs are nervous when they meet new people; if that big scruffy mutt doesn't cuddle up to you within the first ten minutes, give her some time. Don't judge too fast in any case. Many people don't feel an instant connection, but wind up adopting a dog after a second or third visit with her.

It's also important to work closely with an adoption counselor. He will ask you what kind of dog you see fitting into your home and guide you toward an appropriate choice. Every dog deserves a chance, and it may take time to discover just the right pet. Just remember that adopting a dog is a serious commitment, and that time spent now will be well worth it.

Jamie Wolf, a lifelong animal advocate, is the founder of PetLover Central, a high-end, dog day care center in Boca Raton, Florida.

Tags Choosing A Shelter Dog, Choosing A Shelter Puppy, Dog Adoption

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	All of our adoptions are in home adoptions. Meaning, that we bring the dog or pup to the person or persons wanting to adopt. This way the dog is calm, the humans are calm and the human can see how the dog fits in or does not. We also introduce, properly, to existing dogs. Too many are returned, the very next day because there were problems. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	To GreggB Doinga home visit and check references - Like adoptions are for specific typecasted persons with good BS qualities. Any recortds kept for missing microchips? I can't get a dog because of my schedule and I have a dog already for three years. Home visit - Do they ever visit the area in a couple of months unannounced to see if the dog is chained in the yard? tvalent: I see no good from sleeping over at the kennel, the dog is still in the cage! and bring the dog home for one day is ridiculas! All expects suggest around a month of gradual introductions. In your situation it must of been an exception, there are few dogs that adjust so rapidly to a new invironment. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	Thank you for running a column on rescues! Most people will find that the rescue knows more about the dog than you'll ever want to know. I've been in Sheltie Rescue for about 10 years and I've found that the rescue community as a whole is most interested in finding the best place for the dog. If a rescue doesn't at least check your references (including calling your vet) and do a home visit before they accept you as an adopter, you should have second thoughts. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	Great idea, and one I have used in the past. A foster dog may act differently away from familiar people. A sleepover allows time to bond with the prospective owner(s). over 4 years ago by Anonymous

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