Find a Responsible Rescue
One of the most important things you can do before adopting a dog is do your research to find a responsible rescue. Not only do you want to make sure you find the right dog, but you want to make sure they are healthy and taken care of properly before coming home with you. Here are some things to look for.
Being upfront about behavior -- the good and bad: When you decide to adopt a dog, you open yourself up to some who may have an unfortunate dark past. A responsible rescue will be upfront with you about any behavior issues they’ve witnessed prior to starting the adoption process so that you’re aware and can plan for care.
Making sure dogs are healthy: On top of any behavior issues, it’s important to make sure that the dogs have been given a clean bill of health prior to being considered for adoption. Or if they have any special needs that there is a plan in place with the rescue for continued care. The dog should also be up-to-date on their vaccines and spayed or neutered prior to being adopted. These services are usually covered in your adoption fee.
Thorough interview process: Responsible rescues are just as concerned with finding the right home for their animals as you are with finding the right dog for you. This usually involves a thorough interview process. Can it be a little daunting at first? Yes, but the questions or house visit part of the process are as much for you as the dog. They want to make sure that they have vetted everyone to ensure a safe and hopefully forever home for those adopted.
Provide references if asked: Just as you will have to provide references to be considered to adopt a dog, the rescue should also have references or reviews available if you’d like to talk to someone else who has adopted through them. Pet adoption is very much a two-way street and you should think of the process as such.
Know the Temperament and Activity Levels of Dogs
This one is a big one! Before you consider adopting a dog it’s important to do an audit on your current living situation and lifestyle. You may have always loved Labs or Huskies, but if you’re living in an apartment and gone 8+ hours a day giving them the proper exercise and attention may be a struggle. Take the time to learn the temperament and activity levels of all dog breeds you are considering and make sure they match. Now is also a good time to think ahead for your future to ensure you will be able to provide adequate care for your new pet for years to come. Adopting a dog is a long-term commitment and you need to make sure they fit into your long-term plans.
