There are endless benefits to adopting rescue dogs. When you adopt shelter dogs, you’re providing a loving home for an animal in need, freeing up space at the shelter for another animal, and you’re saving a life. You’re also beginning a loving relationship with a dog who will undoubtedly provide you with unconditional love for years to come. Let’s talk about what you need to know about dog adoption.
Where to Adopt a Rescue Dog
The first place you could look is at your local SPCA. They’ll always have adoptable dogs and your adoption fee will likely include neutering/spaying and immunizations. You might want to check out my article, How You Can Help Your Local SPCA.
Taz Courtesy of Debra Sherman
Several years ago, I adopted a rescue dog named Taz (that’s her in the picture that appeared on the shelter’s website). I had a miniature Dachshund named Maggie in the past, and I hoped I could find another doxy. I searched on PetFinder.com and there she was! PetFinder.com is a great way to find adoptable shelter dogs near you.
What Kind of Dog Should I Adopt?
I have a full article (includes video) called, How to Choose a Dog Breed that discusses several things to consider when deciding what kind of dog to adopt.- The dog’s size
- The dog’s coat type
- Which type of dog fits into your lifestyle
- Considering where you live
- How will the dog behave
- Costs of medical care, supplies and food
- Do you have time for a dog?
- Dog Training
How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a Dog?
Dog rescue shelters can charge adoption fees ranging from no fee up to a few hundred dollars. Each shelter has their own adoption procedure and fees, which depend on several factors such as the type of pet and the type of shelter it is.The fees are usually far lower than the cost of purchasing a dog from a pet store or breeder. The adoption fee will likely cover the medical care the dog has already been given such as spaying/neutering, an examination by a veterinarian, vaccinations and possibly even microchipping, all of which would likely cost way more if you were to do it on your own. The adoption fee you pay will go right back into saving more dogs and finding them a home. For more information about the cost of adopting a rescue dog, read this article by PetFinder.com.
Getting Ready for Your New Dog
I suggest reading my article, How to Take Care of a Dog, which covers the most important aspects of dog ownership. If you’re adopting a puppy, read my article called, Preparing for a Puppy, which tells you what you’ll need for the puppy, and also Bringing Your New Puppy Home, which talks about how to prepare your family for the new puppy.Get Help with Dog Training
One of the most common reasons why dogs get returned to the shelter is because the family wasn’t able to successfully train the dog to behave in their home. You can prevent this by learning how to properly train the dog. I suggest the dog training website, TheOnlineDogTrainer.com, created by Professional Dog Trainer and Behavioral Specialist, Doggy Dan. The site includes more than 300 step-by-step videos about every aspect of dog training. Doggy Dan offers a three-day trial of the website for $1.Here are some free resources from Doggy Dan that will definitely help:
Complete puppy training program ($19) called, The Puppy Coach.
It’s So Worth It!
Taz with toys. Courtesy of Debra Sherman
I personally feel that rescue dogs are the most grateful. The first day I brought my little Tazzie home from the shelter (that’s her in the pic), she hopped right into her little doggie bed and started chewing on a toy as if to say, “I’m home!” That’s Taz in the pic, protecting her toys from the vacuum cleaner!
This article was originally published on peoplelovinganimals.com
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