You may have noticed I’ve gone a bit quiet on the blog front this past couple of weeks. That’s because I’ve been busy with our new family member Rupert. He’s a rescue dog from Romania and, as you can see from the picture is super cute!
We decided to get a rescue dog some time ago. My husband has always wanted a dog and now my work allows me to be at home with a dog or to take a dog out with my doggy clients on walks, it finally seemed like the right time to rescue. Our three rabbits and three cats are all rescues and rescuing was the right option for us when it came to getting a dog too. I never judge people for ‘buying’ a dog or ‘ordering’ a puppy from a breeder, that is what works for them, but the benefits of rescuing are myriad. Here are just a few:
1. You can adopt a dog who is already trained – If you’re a new or beginner dog owner you can take a lot of stress and work out of training by adopting a dog that already knows the basics. Most adult dogs in rescue centres are already house trained and have good manners. If you prefer the idea of a puppy there are often many available from rescues too.
2. You can see the dog’s true personality – When you’re adopting from a rescue, specifically a foster home, you can see how the dog behaves in a home environment. The fosterer or rescue centre will be able to tell you how the dog reacts to different situations. You’ll know whether they like other animals, how they act around children and strangers and what their energy level is like.
3. You’re adopting a dog who has been screened for you – Rescue dogs are fully vaccinated and spayed or neutered before you adopt. They’ve gone through vet checks and many have had behavioural assessments that test them around other animals and people.
4. You can get a good match for your lifestyle – When you work with a rescue they have the dog’s future in mind. They’re committed to making sure their dogs are placed with the right family. Ask them questions, give them a list of the qualities you’re looking for – they’ll let you know if they have any dogs that match your needs.
5. You can take the dog for a trial – Many rescues offer a foster-to-adopt program. This is especially helpful if you’ve got other pets or children at home. If you’d like to make sure the dog is a great fit before you sign the adoption paperwork ask if they have a foster-to-adopt program.
6. You get support for a lifetime – Many rescues offer support for their adopters and are available to answer any questions you might have. And in the event of something unforeseen many are willing (some even insist) to take an animal back if there’s a problem.
7. You pay less – When you take into consideration your dog has already been neutered and vaccinated, fixed adoption fees are extremely reasonable. Most vary from £100 – £250. The average cost for getting a dog neutered is between £50 and £150. And for anyone who has taken their dog to the vet for vaccinations you know how quickly those costs add up!
8. You have a lot of choice – Rescues have puppies, adults and older dogs. Every breed and every mix you can think of. If you want a purebred there are many available in rescues (about 30% of rescue dogs are pure breeds) or you can visit a breed-specific rescue.
9. You’re saving a life – Every dog that’s adopted from a rescue means another space opens up. When you adopt a dog you’re giving him a second chance at life and opening up another space for that shelter or rescue to save another animal in need.
10. Your dog will be grateful – Rescue dogs know when they’re given a second chance. Not only will you be gaining a best friend for life, you’ll have a dog that’s grateful.
I can’t recommend rescuing highly enough. The rewards are endless and the love you receive is priceless. If you’re in the market for a new best friend, please consider a rescue dog or cat or rabbit! You won’t regret it!
Posted on 24.01.2017 by Lisa
<< Back to blog...