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  • Questions to Ask Before Getting a Dog from a Rescue or Shelter

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    I recently wrote an article about getting a dog from a rescue or shelter. You may consider rescuing a dog for many reasons instead of getting a puppy. If you haven’t had a chance to read the article, you can check it out right here.

    Now that you have decided to find a rescue dog, it can be both exciting and overwhelming. Many go for the first cute rescue that they find, but the truth is that you should choose a dog that will fit into your life instead of one that you can’t resist.

    Here are some good questions to ask.

    Where did he or she come from?

     Sometimes, a dog has to go to a shelter due to a change in the family. The family might have had the dog since it was a puppy,, so you might be able to get detailed information about the dog, such as training, veterinary records, and any health concerns.

    Then, there are dogs that have just been found with no history. They might have gotten lost and find themselves in need of a good home. You might also find dogs that have come from abusive situations. If you have young children or aren’t prepared for anything, you may want to look for one that comes with more information.

    How long has he or she been at the shelter? 

    Though some dogs stay at the shelter for longer periods of time due to their conditions, the truth is that some dogs get picked over and over for months or years at a time. You should give a dog a home that has been overlooked.

    How many homes has this dog already had? 

    If you do choose a dog that has been in the shelter for a while, you may want to find out if he or she has been at multiple homes. Some dogs find themselves in unsuitable homes and are returned. Dogs that have been in multiple homes may need a little extra love and attention (as well as patience) as they adjust to a forever home.

    You may also want to make sure that they will take the dog back if it doesn’t work out with you. 

    Though you aren’t going to want to take a dog home, intending to bring it back, it is a good idea to ensure that you are able if something happens.

    What is the dog’s personality like? 

    Though you may want to know what breed of dog you are getting, it is more important that you ask about his or her personality. If the dog has spent any time at the shelter, workers will probably know some things about him or her. They will be able to tell you what he or she likes. You might even be able to find out if they enjoy spending time with children, other dogs, or even cats. Workers should be able to tell you whether they enjoy walks on a leash or would prefer someone to play ball with in the yard!

    How well is the dog trained? 

    Dogs and puppies that get rescued come in all shapes and sizes (as well as training). Some may have never been outside to use the bathroom, while others may be completely potty-trained. Some may walk well on a leash, while others still have their puppy instincts of biting, chewing, and jumping.

    Though any dog may struggle in a new home (and regress), it helps to know how much work will be expected of you when you take in this new dog or puppy.

    How healthy is my new friend? 

    Before most dogs and puppies are adopted, they go through a thorough examination by a veterinarian. They usually get fixed if they are not, as well as make sure that they are up-to-date on their vaccines. Many will get tested for intestinal parasites and heartworms before starting on preventative.

    Some veterinarians will do bloodwork to make sure that they are sending out healthy patients. However, some rescues take in special cases where they are looking for someone willing to give a good dog with a bad situation a home. You have to make sure that you, your family, and your veterinarian are able to care for this dog properly before you take him or her into your home.

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    Adopting a dog can be a great way to bring more love into your home. However, you need to be careful and find out as much information as possible about a dog before you bring him or her home. Make sure that you find out why he or she is in the shelter. Did his or her owner get sick and was unable to care for him or her properly? Was the dog or puppy found on the road with no history that you can find? If the shelter has had him or her for awhile, you might want to see how often the dog was adopted and returned.

    Then, ask the people at the shelter about the dog. Is he or she friendly or shy? Happy to be out walking or prefer playing? Does the dog get along with other dogs, cats, and children?

    You also need to make sure that your new friend is healthy, unless you are willing and able to take care of an older dog who needs some extra love and care. Then, you also need to make sure that you can take the dog back if you have to.

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    Please note, the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Even though I am a veterinary professional, this blog is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. 

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately. 

  • Reasons to Adopt Your Next Pet!

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    Adding a new furry family member is a significant decision. While many people believe that rescuing a dog is the way to go, just as many people go to breeders and pet shops when it is time to get their next dog.

    Many people are seeking a specific breed of dog, believing they can only obtain one through a breeder. Others want a puppy, instead of an older dog, so that it can grow up with their children.

    However, the truth is that dogs of all ages are looking for a forever home and are often in need of rescue. The same can be said about the breed. Dogs of all breeds (purebred and mutts) need homes. There are local SPCA’s and Animal Rescues overflowing with dogs. There are also breed-specific rescues available if you prefer to adopt a specific breed.

    There are so many reasons that you need to get a rescue dog today!

    Getting a rescue dog saves their lives! 

    Many dogs are euthanized each year because shelters and rescues are overflowing with dogs. Often, there is nothing wrong with the dogs other than the fact that nobody wants them. So, save a dog today!

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    When you rescue a dog, you are not supporting puppy mills. 

    Puppy mills contribute to the problem of dog overpopulation. Buying puppies only encourages breeders to breed their dogs more, so they can produce more puppies and earn more money. By rescuing your next dog, you are saving one without supporting breeders.

    Unless you get a puppy, you do not have to deal with the puppy stage. 

    You might get a dog that is already socialized and potty-trained. They might already be used to children of all ages. Many of the dogs have basic manners when you receive them, depending on how the previous owner treated them. You may find yourself with a perfect, well-trained dog!

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    Training can go a little easier, especially when it has already begun. 

    If someone has already started training, it makes the whole process a little easier. Potty training and leash walking might be within reach (and soon)! Some even come to you already going outside when they need to go to the bathroom.

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    If you want to unleash your rescue dog’s potential, you may want to check out Dogo’s tailored training programs. After taking a survey, you will receive a customized training plan for you and your dog. They also offer courses for your new dog, no biting, potty training, basic obedience, tricks, and more! 

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    Rescue dogs are cheaper than puppies. 

    Even with cheaper fees than purebred puppies, rescue dogs are often spayed or neutered. They are usually up-to-date on their vaccines, which also saves you some money on vet bills.

    When you get a puppy, you have to sign up for several vet visits to make sure that your new dog is up-to-date on all of his or her shots. Then, you need to spay or neuter him or her, which could cost you a few hundred dollars.

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    Looking to get pet insurance for your new rescue pet, The Swiftest has helped over 100,000 cat owners find the perfect insurance for their cats. They also have a list of the best insurance options for families with both dogs and cats. If you are looking for the best insurance companies for your pets this month, check out this list by The Swiftest. 

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    Rescue dogs often form strong bonds with their new owners. 

    Often, neglected dogs are so overjoyed at finding a home and people who love them that they attach to them quickly. They typically love to follow them around and spend time with them. They can make the best and happiest pets!

    Often, unless you get a puppy, you will know what kind of personality your dog has. 

    With puppies, you can’t guarantee what your adult dog will act like. Instead, when you rescue an older dog, he already has a personality and way of behaving. You can decide precisely what you want in a dog and find one that matches your needs.

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    Rescuing a dog can be beneficial for many reasons. You can decide what traits you want in a dog and find one that matches them. You do not have to deal with the messy puppy stage (unless you want one)! The dogs will also come to you fully vaccinated and fixed. They will have some basic training and socialization.

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    Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.

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    Please note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.

    If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.