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How to Find a Puppy and Avoid Puppy Mills – Adopt from Rescue Groups
0 Comments | Posted by Suzy in Current Events, Puppies
Humane Societies and Rescue Groups have homeless dogs and puppies, often surrendered because their first family was unable or unwilling to work with the dog.
Provide a Home - Adopt a Puppy
Puppies and dogs from humane societies and rescue groups often have unknown health and genetic histories, and may not come with certifications or papers. However, you can get a limited registration for purebred dogs by submitting photos and paperwork to AKC or UKC, allowing them to participate in some sporting events.
One thing that everyone always notices about adopted dogs is that the dog seems to know, and appreciates the home you give them. Maybe we project this emotion, but it’s real to us.
Most groups feature their dogs on services such as Petfinder, but research the group to make sure they are caring for their pets in a humane way. Browse their web site, check with the local society for the prevention of cruelty to animals, and if possible, visit their facility before adopting their pets.
Enjoy your new dog, and help them keep you as their home – begin a training program using positive reinforcement.
Here is a brief list of dog rescue group types and the benefits each provides…
City Shelters – the “Pound”
Some city shelters are simply a holding place for lost and surrendered dogs. They frequently do not have the resources needed to provide services such as training. Space is often limited, so dogs are not kept for long in these facilities. Most shelters work with other organizations – passing certain dogs along to rescue groups and humane societies for training and adoption.
Humane Societies
Humane societies truly have the best interest of the dog in mind. They are usually nonprofit, and work towards animal care and owner education. Most groups house the dogs in foster homes and work with the dogs before adopting them out. They almost always offer vaccinations, spay/neuter, and training as part of the fee. The adoption fee is always a good “price” and is frequently lower than stores and breeders.
Rescue Groups
Most rescue groups have a passion for a certain breed or type situation. They may focus on placing retired race track dogs, working with a specified breed, or rescuing dogs by condition or location. They utilize foster homes, and sometimes provide training, vaccinations, or spay/neuter services.
Service Dog Groups
Organizations that train service dogs often have trained adult dogs for adoption. Service dog groups may raise puppies from screened breeders, or rescue dogs from shelters. After basic obedience, they go on to intensive training for jobs as guide, therapy, hearing, alert, and other service dogs. At this time, dogs are evaluated as to whether they will enjoy and thrive in the job. Dogs who do not thrive are placed in homes. These dogs are VERY well trained, and sometimes the breeding history is known.
Other entries in this series:
- How to Find a Puppy and Avoid Puppy Mills – Puppy Checklist
- Evaluating Breeders
- Looking at Pet Stores
- Through Private Advertisements
