Author Topic: Getting a rescue dog  (Read 11524 times)

CommonCents

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2363
Getting a rescue dog
« on: March 18, 2014, 03:20:41 PM »
I'm looking into getting a dog, and considering a rescue one instead of a breeder.  What should I expect in this process?  I'm sure it varies by organization, but on the whole, do the rescue organizations really do surprise inspections?  Or is it just a standard question in the application that's not really invoked.  I'm not planning on having a terribad home, but regardless, I'm not throughly a fan of the idea of someone surprising me to walk through and judge the state of my home. 

I wanted to wait until we settled into our new home more (just bought 2 months ago and still settling in), but one of the rescue orgs near me has a young shelty mix that still hasn't been placed after 2+ weeks...

Also, is it a problem we don't currently have a vet for our cat?  (I'd like to blame it on moving, but the fact is that it's my husband's cat from well before I came on the scene, I, the stepmom, can't put her into the cat carrier by myself and he freakin' hasn't taken her to the vet for her annual checkup in the past ~3-4 years, despite my nagging.  And now that we moved we need to find a new vet.)

EK

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 733
  • Age: 37
  • Location: Fredericksburg, VA
    • Happily Enough
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #1 on: March 18, 2014, 03:30:03 PM »
You probably want to get a vet for your cat before you fill out the rescue application.  For every animal I've adopted they have actually called the vet I list as reference to confirm that I'm a person who takes care of their pets.

NestEggChick (formerly PFgal)

  • Stubble
  • **
  • Posts: 238
  • Location: Boston-ish, MA
    • Nest Egg Chick
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #2 on: March 18, 2014, 03:30:34 PM »
I haven't adopted a pet (though I'd LOVE to!) but I just wanted to say congratulations in advance! I grew up with a Sheltie and though they're high strung, they're also loyal and so incredibly sweet. I hope your new pup gets along well with your cat and vice versa. Enjoy! :)

Spork

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5742
    • Spork In The Eye
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #3 on: March 18, 2014, 03:33:09 PM »
I am a firm believer in rescues.  I don't think I'll ever have anything else.

I can't speak for inspections... I've never had one.  I don't honestly care if someone did.

I will say (because you need to know all sides of it): Rescues can come with side effects.

dog1: I can almost 100% guarantee she disappeared in a storm and was picked up by rescue group.  She is an absolute nightmare in a storm and is NOT THE SAME DOG.  We've tried all the usuals: thundershirts, benadryl, etc.  She now has a prescription med.

dog2: This guy came from a puppy mill seizure.  There were 150 dogs inside a small 3 bedroom house.  Yes: inside.  He is a total social misfit and was extremely hard to potty train.  He'd been going on the floor for a year.  He totally freaked out the first day he walked on grass.  He is MUCH better... but still not perfect.  (Some of this may be our inability to properly train... but I digress.)

rocksinmyhead

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1489
  • Location: Oklahoma
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #4 on: March 18, 2014, 03:41:18 PM »
dog1: I can almost 100% guarantee she disappeared in a storm and was picked up by rescue group.  She is an absolute nightmare in a storm and is NOT THE SAME DOG.  We've tried all the usuals: thundershirts, benadryl, etc.  She now has a prescription med.

aww poor guy! I had a roommate whose dog was like this. he had his own Valium prescription because the thundershirt was insufficient :(

OP, I don't have firsthand experience (my boyfriend has had our dog since years before we met) but another option if you're really worried about stringent requirements is to adopt from your city pound. that's where our pup is from... my boyfriend got him at the Philadelphia pound when he was 3 months old and he's seriously the most awesome dog I've ever met. plus, those places usually have even scarcer resources than rescue groups, so most of those dogs are pretty doomed. :(

AJ

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 906
  • Age: 40
  • Location: Oregon
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #5 on: March 18, 2014, 03:47:32 PM »
Kudos to you for choosing adoption over breeders!!!

I've never had a follow-up anything (visit, call, etc.) from a rescue. They barely have enough money and volunteer hours to care for the animals they have, let alone following up on the ones that found homes.

However, if you admit to them you have an un-vaccinated cat they will likely want you to get her up to date before allowing you to adopt. You should be able to go meet the Shelty now and if you get along and it seems like a good fit, they may let you place a hold on her while you get your cat vaccinated.

Spork

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5742
    • Spork In The Eye
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #6 on: March 18, 2014, 03:52:50 PM »

You might want to also make sure the dog and cat get along.  And don't expect that to be immediate.  Sometimes these intros take weeks.  I've had prey driven dogs that took 5-6 weeks... maybe more.  (And adding a new cat makes that start over.  They don't learn "cat is ok" they learn "THAT cat is ok".  Tell the shelter up front and get an assurance that they'll take the dog back (and try again to place it) if it doesn't work out.

CommonCents

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2363
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #7 on: March 18, 2014, 04:04:27 PM »
Hi all, thanks for the comments. If nothing else,  this will push DH into finally taking her in to the vet.  Re the dog and cat - one of the reasons he'd be perfect for us is that the description of the dog states he is ok with cats.

I'm aware a dog would likely have behavioral issues. This one, my husband showed me the description (he, the cat lover found!) which said he gets into mischief and my first comment was "well so do I!"  Apparently obedience classes are a must for this one.

hoodedfalcon

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 514
  • Location: Deep and Dirty
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #8 on: March 18, 2014, 04:20:01 PM »
Rescues are the best! But unfortunately, sometimes not the easiest. I'm on my second rescue dog now. The first I got as a puppy and had to deal with normal puppy things and avoided the usual shelter issues. The second one was two years old when I got her and she spent most of the two years at the rescue or in various foster homes. She is amazingly well-adjusted for a dog that spent two years in a shelter....though she still has some issues.

Just a bit of warning - The "okay with cats" and "okay with dogs" description is not 100% reliable, so be very cautious when introducing your cat. My pup is great with cats (my cat, that is), but with other dogs she is not totally reliable, despite them saying "okay with dogs." It was a lesson I learned the hard way, and I totally have dog fight PTSD now. I just wish the rescue had been more honest about it. I found out later from a volunteer that they were concerned about her growing dog aggression...

Another Reader

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5327
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #9 on: March 18, 2014, 04:35:57 PM »
Rescues have a very difficult time deciding an animal is not adoptable.  Occasionally they will pass the animal off to an adopter and let the adopter make the decision.  Some are less emotional than others, but you have to evaluate the rescue as well as the dog.  Shelters actually tend to be more cut and dried because of the liability issues and the ever-present oversupply of animals.  If your local shelters temperament test and you have an opportunity to spend time with the dogs, I would recommend you look there.  You are also likely saving that dog's life or the life of another dog that takes that one's kennel space if you adopt from a shelter. 

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #10 on: March 18, 2014, 06:48:07 PM »
No experience with dogs myself, but several friends that have had very good experiences with rescues. If you know a specific breed you're looking for, try to find a rescue dedicated to that breed. Otherwise, like with so many things, YMMV.

I've never heard of shelters doing inspections. An interview at the shelter, of course, but inspections?

the fixer

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1029
  • Location: Seattle, WA
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #11 on: March 18, 2014, 06:53:07 PM »
Came to this thread expecting a discussion on search and rescue dogs! I have a family friend that's been doing that for at least 20 years. Anyway, another vote for getting a rescue dog, good call.

Cassie

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 7946
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #12 on: March 18, 2014, 07:14:07 PM »
it is a must that you have a vet reference for the cat & she is up to date on shots, etc.  Typically, you fill out an application, they call your vet and then do an initial phone interview. If you pass all that they will do a home interview/inspection before deciding. Some have rules that you must have a fenced in yard etc.  We have rescued many dogs.  If you go to the pound you just pay to get the dog.

iris lily

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5672
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #13 on: March 18, 2014, 07:20:49 PM »
I';m on the board of a local breed rescue and have had many foster dogs myself.

Yes, we will look at your house. We want to make sure that when you say you've got a fenced in yard, you have that fenced in yard. We will check your references. Usually most all people check out ok--but sometimes, not.

I've placed several dogs in our rescue program. Most dogs stick, but some are not a good match and that is ok--admit it early on and return the doggie.

naturelover

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 65
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #14 on: March 18, 2014, 07:57:46 PM »
How awesome that you are considering rescue! I have been volunteering at a no-kill shelter for almost six years and have worked with many, many dogs. Most rescue groups and no-kill shelters will have more stringent requirements for adoption (home visits, vet references, etc.) as well as higher adoption fees. County shelters (your regular ol' "dog pound") should have more minimal requirements and lower fees. It would definitely be a good idea to get your cat up-to-date with the vet first, though (sounds like you're planning to do this).

As for a surprise inspection, I have never heard of that. I think they would likely schedule something with you. Another great thing about no-kill shelters and rescue groups is that some will let you take the dog home on a test run to make sure everything clicks. This is in the best interest of all parties involved and helps the organization make a good match. They should also be able to help you test a potential dog with your cat.

Do you know about Petfinder.com? If the Sheltie doesn't work out, check Petfinder for other shelters and rescue groups in your area. They have tons of listings. Something else to mention is that there are many purebred dogs available for adoption. People are often not aware that there are rescue groups that specialize in specific breeds.

After working with shelter dogs for a while now, I have seen some with issues, but the vast majority of dogs I have worked with are even-tempered, loving dogs. It's a myth that all shelter dogs are bad dogs or "broken". Many of the dogs in shelters that do have issues are due to the fact that they just got dumped off at a big, scary place and are confused as to why they are there. They need time and tlc to readjust. 

One thing to note, some people think that the adoption fees for animals from rescue groups and no-kill shelters are high. These organizations put hundreds of dollars into the care of many of their individual animals and don't begin to recoup their costs through adoption fees. When adopting an animal from these groups, the animal will mostly likely have already had "the works" as far as vet care goes: up-to-date on shots, any known illnesses (worms, etc.) will have been treated, and already spayed/neutered. County shelters will have lower fees, but the animal will likely not have had this much care.

I will also make an unsolicited recommendation for adopting older dogs. Many people want puppies and young dogs, but they are also the ones that are more apt to get into trouble, pee on the floor, chew things up, etc. Older dogs (and I'm not talking old, maybe 4-5 y.o. or so) are often much more relaxed.

I will end with my testimonial. I have a 10 y.o. mixed-breed shelter dog who is probably a hound/herder mix, and she is just the greatest dog. We adopted her from a county shelter at 1 y.o., and she was quite a handful at that age. After some training and learning on all of our parts, she has since become the love of our lives.

Sorry this was so long (and full of random info)! Could you guess that dogs are one of my favorite topics? :)

ljp555

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 32
  • Location: San Jose, CA
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #15 on: March 18, 2014, 08:56:31 PM »
I agree that rescue dogs don't necessarily have behavioral problems. I adopted a 2 year old retriever a few years ago. The first few days at home were an adjustment period for us both, but we settled into a good routine within a few weeks. I get complements all the time on what a nice, calm dog he is.

I filled out an application with a rescue, though they didn't do a home visit, and I don't think they called any references. It does look like some rescues in my area do an initial home visit,

Milspecstache

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 538
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #16 on: March 18, 2014, 09:24:22 PM »
I want a retired military working dog but we need to finish a bit more traveling first.  Maybe in the next year or so.

zinnie

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 710
  • Location: Boston
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #17 on: March 18, 2014, 10:45:14 PM »
The rescues I got my dogs from were all talk, no action. I am sure it varies a lot, as you mentioned, but the check up visits were less than five minutes and I never heard from them again. They did make it seem very difficult to pass their scrutiny in the beginning, but my sense was that a lot of that is just to scare off people who aren't serious. If you have a good environment for a dog they are unlikely to turn you down; there are too many homeless pets out there!

Rescues are the best, and a lot of dog behavioral problems are not that big of a deal. My abused, terrified rescue turned out much easier to train and much more obedient than the one I have had since she was a puppy. So much depends on the dog, in my experience!

Jamesqf

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4038
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #18 on: March 18, 2014, 11:21:12 PM »
I think it depends on the rescue group, whether you know people in it, etc.  As for instance my younger dog came from a rescue, but it was a friend of a friend, and a case of 'Can you please foster him, just for a week or two?' - which will be three years next month :-)

I also second getting older dogs, especially if you have younger kids.  The one above was my youngest, at 9 months.  The rest have ranged from about 3 to as old as perhaps 10 years.  And I vote for mixed breeds over purebreds. too.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #19 on: March 19, 2014, 06:51:15 AM »
We adopted our dog directly from the pound (Toronto Animal Services).  She has a good personality, that was evident from the moment we first met her and took her for a walk.  It worked out great for us, as we didn't have the time needed to raise and house train a puppy.  She settled into our routine quite quickly.  She has only one behavioral issue (doesn't like to be picked up at all, and will only let me pick her up occasionally), but has been an excellent pet for the two years we've had her.  She's also great with kids and is adjusting well to our other new addition to the family:


naturelover

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 65
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #20 on: March 19, 2014, 07:37:49 PM »
GuitarStv - what a sweet photo! :)

TacosForever

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 53
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #21 on: March 19, 2014, 08:01:54 PM »
Just wanted to second the opinion that rescue dogs don't always come with issues. Oftentimes the "issues" with a dog is really that the dog and family are not a good match for each others needs. Don't adopt just because the dog has been in the shelter a few weeks - it sounds cruel to say that, but it's a far worse situation to get the dog home only to find out she/he is not a good match for your lifestyle.

My DH was dead set on getting a puppy - he was just in love with the idea of having the same dog with you for 15 years from puppy to senior. This would have been just about the worst possible idea for our lifestyle though - nobody home to house train the puppy, neither of us disciplined enough to do obedience training, neither of us active enough to keep up with a growing and energetic puppy...

We ultimately adopted a senior pit bull/shepherd mix from a local rescue, and she was the best possible choice. She's mellow, has minimal exercise needs, had great house manners from day 1, and is generally just happy to hang out with us and give kisses. She's the perfect match for our lifestyle.

I would really encourage you to think honestly about what your current days are like, because it's unlikely you're going to change your lifestyle much as the result of adopting a dog. Think about - how much time are you home? do you already exercise frequently outside, or are you more of a reading indoors kind of person? What about grooming - are you going to learn to DIY, pay for a groomer, or just get a dog with minimal grooming needs? Do you live in a house or share walls (i.e. is barking or whining going to be a problem)? Just a few of the things to consider.

And lastly, good for you for considering rescue. As the saying goes, "Those who say money can't buy happiness have never paid an adoption fee." I hope you find a wonderful companion :)

windawake

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 435
  • Age: 35
  • Location: Minneapolis, MN
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #22 on: March 19, 2014, 08:15:19 PM »
I've fostered a few dogs from three different rescue organizations. One organization in particular was not completely upfront about the dog on the website, she was incredibly hyperactive and they ended up needing to find a new foster because I don't have a yard and she was going nuts in my apartment. The two other dogs I fostered were incredibly sweet.

I'd suggest you read up on temperament testing even though it's intended for little puppies. Knowing a little about how to evaluate temperament can help you decide if an individual dog is right for you. The nutty dog I had was so hyperactive in our meet-and-greet room, she was literally jumping up on the walls and running around the perimeter of the room. The best foster I had was so sweet when we met, she just wanted to be near me and to be pet. My current dog was a small puppy when I got her in September, but her personality in the meet-and-greet room at the shelter was very similar to what it is now: playful, affectionate, and fairly calm.

Of course each dog comes with their own history, but do some reading about training and be set to start training on day one. I especially wish that I'd known what I know now about training a dog not to pull on leash. My dog and my most recent foster didn't pull when I got them and acquired the habit. It's much easier to prevent than to break! (This is what I do: I quickly change direction if my dog pulls ahead which gives her a quick tug and she'll have to change direction to follow me, then I click and give her a treat when she's in the position I want. This method makes them her stay attentive to my body. Prior to starting this outside we just practiced her keeping eye contact on me and following inside).

naturelover

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 65
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #23 on: March 19, 2014, 08:24:18 PM »
Tacos is absolutely right about the match issue. Many dogs that don't work out with a person or family are just because they were ill-suited to one another, not because the dog was bad. If you adopt from a no-kill shelter or rescue group, they are likely to have more resources and time to ensure the match is good. A county shelter is likely to have less of those resources and just let you pick out the dog. And face it, a lot of us choose them based on looks without thinking about those lifestyle issues.

I second what Tacos said about not adopting just because a dog has been there a few weeks. At the no-kill shelter where I volunteer, dogs are sometimes there for a long time. Two or three weeks is nothing. Also, if a dog is part of a rescue group, then it is likely living in a home with someone rather than in a cage at the shelter (fwiw, as far as the "feeling sorry" factor goes). Most rescue groups are comprised of a network of foster homes, so many of these dogs are already living in a family environment. It's still great to adopt from them, though, because many of these groups rescue dogs that are about to get put down at county shelters. By adopting from the rescue, you open up a spot for that group to pull another dog, saving it from being put down.

fallstoclimb

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1090
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #24 on: March 20, 2014, 06:57:22 AM »
I volunteer with a rescue organization, and they do both home visits (but not surprise ones, that seems crazy) and vet checks if you have a current pet.  The home visits are just to ensure everyone is safe and prepared.  When I became a foster, our cat was several years behind on his vaccinations, so we just took him to a vet to get up to date.  The rescue didn't care that we had let him get behind on vaccinations (or they didn't know), they just want to make sure their dogs are not currently in an unvaccinated home. 

Our rescue dog is the best dog we've ever had.  He's got a great head on his shoulders and honestly no real problems at all.  Every day I wonder how he wound up in a shelter but we'll never know.  Every dog has a different story - I wouldn't assume at ALL that it means there is anything wrong with them because they are in a shelter.  If anything I think shelters pre-screen a little more effectively than breeders do - rescues only want to pull dogs they think are adoptable.  I mean, obviously we'd like to save every dog, but no one has the resources to go to high kill shelters and pull every dog -- so they pull the ones they think will find a home quickly, so they can rescue more dogs. 

A lot of rescues, mine included, are 100% foster based -- there is no central location with all the dogs.  This is a huge plus because the fosters get to know the dogs really well and can tell you about their personalities so you can find a good match.

Also, if you think you might not be ready for adopting a dog, I HIGHLY recommend fostering.  It's a really great experience, although we are not the gold standard for it since we couldn't let our foster dog go and adopted him....whoops.  Even then though, at least you are sure you are getting a dog that works for your lifestyle, and the dog is getting a happy home.

Congratulations on the decision!  Adopting our dog was the best decision we ever made  :)

windawake

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 435
  • Age: 35
  • Location: Minneapolis, MN
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #25 on: March 20, 2014, 07:41:13 AM »
Congratulations on the decision!  Adopting our dog was the best decision we ever made  :)

+1

Sometimes I look at my dog and seriously wonder what I did before I got her. I was so worried about committing to a dog and all the work it entailed. Now that 'work' is the best part of my day!

CommonCents

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2363
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #26 on: March 20, 2014, 08:12:30 AM »
Think about - how much time are you home? do you already exercise frequently outside, or are you more of a reading indoors kind of person? What about grooming - are you going to learn to DIY, pay for a groomer, or just get a dog with minimal grooming needs? Do you live in a house or share walls (i.e. is barking or whining going to be a problem)? Just a few of the things to consider.

This one is pretty funny to me, because I do all of the grooming for my sister's Shelty (except when they go away and put her in a kennel) when I visit.  Yeah, even though I'm only there once every ~6 weeks... 

This is also why we waited until we had a house - with no shared walls and more space for the dog (and cat).  I'm not sure if an organization will consider that we live on a pond to be an asset or a detriment, but it does mean that the neighbors are extra friendly and "share" the space amongst all of the backyards for an extra huge one, and the kids play in all of them.  (That also means the neighbors asked us not to put up a a physical fence, although the previous owners did have up an electric one.)

I am familiar though with the needs of dogs, and shelties in particular.  My family had two dogs growing up.  A Samoyed from 0-9, and then after much asking begging, a Shelty from 13-24.  (Although it was my dog - or as my parents put it, I was his little girl - my parents persuaded me that it was in the best interests of the dog not to take him from their home when I was allowed to get an off campus apartment in college where I could keep a dog.)

I'd suggest you read up on temperament testing even though it's intended for little puppies. Knowing a little about how to evaluate temperament can help you decide if an individual dog is right for you. The nutty dog I had was so hyperactive in our meet-and-greet room, she was literally jumping up on the walls and running around the perimeter of the room. The best foster I had was so sweet when we met, she just wanted to be near me and to be pet. My current dog was a small puppy when I got her in September, but her personality in the meet-and-greet room at the shelter was very similar to what it is now: playful, affectionate, and fairly calm.

For my Shelty I had as a kid, my parents were definitely paying attention to temperment on my behalf.  (They prescreened and only brought me to see a puppy that they thought would work.)  Super friendly, affectionate, and happy to play with me on the floor...but would sit quietly in my mom's arms as well.  Maybe I should take them along with me to temperment test this time too.  :)

Oh, and I'm not worried about the expensive of the shelter fees.  I get they have vet and other costs.  We would probably be the type to make an annual donation to the place on the anniversary of getting the dog anyhow, if we got it from a charitable group.

Our cat is technically a shelter cat - her mom was found pregnant on the streets, and she was born into the shelter.
« Last Edit: March 20, 2014, 08:14:34 AM by CommonCents »

starbuck

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 400
  • Age: 39
  • Location: Small Town Connecticut
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #27 on: March 20, 2014, 09:09:45 AM »
I volunteer at my local animal shelter - it's a rescue organization that is affiliated with the city's animal control building, so we're much more of a traditional 'pound' than the breed specific rescue orgs with lots of foster homes. We certainly don't have the resources for home inspections; I think the canine manager will visit a home occasionally, but that's usually when it involves a dog we've had for many months and it's more about saying good bye to the dog than scoping out the house. The main goal is compatability, but if the new owner is willing to put in the work, it doesn't really matter if it's a horse farm or a 1 bedroom condo. Dogs can thrive anywhere with the right support.

Remember that some dogs don't 'present' well at the shelter. We train ours to sit at their kennel door when someone approaches, but some of them just get too excited (or are too stressed) that they can't help but jump around like a maniac. We had one pit mix that was very sweet outside of his kennel, but inside he would jump in circles off the walls and explode poop and urine all over his kennel 4-5 times a day. When he finally got adopted after 6 months, turns out he was 100% housebroken from day 1 and is the chillest dog around. The only issue I personally would be wary of when adpoting is resouce guarding because it can be a challenge to train out of a dog and the risk factor is high when small children or other dogs are around.

The hardest families for us to adopt dogs to is those with small children. If your cat has their claws in tact and high ground to jump too, most dogs will heed their warnings and all will be fine. Our cat and dog still don't get along after two years, but the only drama is the occassional chase and bark. Our cat keeps our senior citizen dog on her toes.

Our dog is a shelter dog too and was a complete basketcase in the beginning. Terrified of her own shadow, men, stairs, the works. But for the last 5 years or so she's relaxed so much, my friends can't believe it's the same dog. For her, it was all about socialization and getting her out and around dogs and people (slow at first) and establishing a routine. And regular walks. That was it. That's all it takes for a lot of dogs, but sadly a lot of them don't get it. You sound like a great applicant, I wouldn't worry too much.

starbuck

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 400
  • Age: 39
  • Location: Small Town Connecticut
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #28 on: March 20, 2014, 10:02:08 AM »
Oh, and I'm not worried about the expensive of the shelter fees.  I get they have vet and other costs.  We would probably be the type to make an annual donation to the place on the anniversary of getting the dog anyhow, if we got it from a charitable group.

That's a very sweet idea! And thanks for understanding that there are costs. We occassionally get dogs and cats surrendered due to cost of medical care. They pay a nominal fee ($35-$100) and then we foot the often very large bill for their medical care. We once got a very sweet Great Dane that was hit by a car and broke a leg, and the owner couldn't pay for his bill, so the owner turned him over to us and we paid. Spay/neuter and vaccines are just the basics. Older dogs and cats often need dental work if they've been neglected. One month we had $16k worth of vet bills, and our annual operating budget is about $120k (only the shelter director is a paid position.) I commonly get asked if the animals are free. No, they're not free.

windawake

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 435
  • Age: 35
  • Location: Minneapolis, MN
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #29 on: March 20, 2014, 10:09:55 AM »
Also, CommonCents. I had a sheltie growing up too. He was such a great dog. When I was looking for a dog I was looking for one who was fluffy and pointy-nosed. I was always drawn to sheltie, collie, or shepherd mixes. The best guess is that my current pup is a border collie mix.

Cromacster

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1695
  • Location: Minnesnowta
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #30 on: March 20, 2014, 01:48:30 PM »
I've fostered a few dogs from three different rescue organizations. One organization in particular was not completely upfront about the dog on the website, she was incredibly hyperactive and they ended up needing to find a new foster because I don't have a yard and she was going nuts in my apartment. The two other dogs I fostered were incredibly sweet.

I'd suggest you read up on temperament testing even though it's intended for little puppies. Knowing a little about how to evaluate temperament can help you decide if an individual dog is right for you. The nutty dog I had was so hyperactive in our meet-and-greet room, she was literally jumping up on the walls and running around the perimeter of the room. The best foster I had was so sweet when we met, she just wanted to be near me and to be pet. My current dog was a small puppy when I got her in September, but her personality in the meet-and-greet room at the shelter was very similar to what it is now: playful, affectionate, and fairly calm.

Of course each dog comes with their own history, but do some reading about training and be set to start training on day one. I especially wish that I'd known what I know now about training a dog not to pull on leash. My dog and my most recent foster didn't pull when I got them and acquired the habit. It's much easier to prevent than to break! (This is what I do: I quickly change direction if my dog pulls ahead which gives her a quick tug and she'll have to change direction to follow me, then I click and give her a treat when she's in the position I want. This method makes them her stay attentive to my body. Prior to starting this outside we just practiced her keeping eye contact on me and following inside).

http://www.volhard.com/pages/pat.php

I recommend reading and practicing these tests to anyone before adopting/acquiring a dog.  And by practice I mean run through the exercises on friends dogs, shelter dogs, foster dogs, or whatever dog you can get your hands on prior to selecting your own.  It's far from fool proof, but it helps give you an idea of what kind of dog it is.

Too many people buy/adopt for the breed not for the dog.  They get a husky and want it as a lap dog and wonder why their couch is in 200 pieces after leaving it alone for the day.  Which leads to a lot of dogs going to rescue orgs and shelters because people do not understand what they are getting themselves into.

Doing research on specific breeds will help as well.  If you understand their original purpose in being, it helps you understand what sort of training they will require and what sort of behaviors to expect.  Again, this is far from fool proof as you will always find dogs who are exceptions to the rule.

Sorry for the sort of rant, but I have seen a lot of people make poor choices concerning dogs and I see even more of it with the rescue org I am somewhat involved with.
« Last Edit: April 25, 2014, 06:15:55 AM by Cromacster »

Cromacster

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1695
  • Location: Minnesnowta
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #31 on: March 20, 2014, 02:00:50 PM »
Sometimes I look at my dog and seriously wonder what I did before I got her. I was so worried about committing to a dog and all the work it entailed. Now that 'work' is the best part of my day!

I was thinking about this the other day too.  What do I do when I used to have all of that free time? 

Now I sound like a person with kids....haha

Milspecstache

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 538
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #32 on: March 20, 2014, 04:55:32 PM »
Cromacster, thanks for the link!  What an awesome tool and they even talk about how to judge an older dog during adoption!

elaine amj

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5548
  • Location: Ontario
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #33 on: April 24, 2014, 11:06:32 AM »
We adopted a rescue dog last year. Before we did, I spent a crazy amount of hours on researching the best choice for us. I had originally intended to get a puppy, like everyone else. However, the more I read - I felt that we just did not have the resources to care for a puppy. Kids at school and both parents at work - who takes the pup out?)

I connected with several shelters and rescue groups. I was a little turned off with how many rescue groups were so focused on finding the "perfect home" for their pets that many "okay homes" got turned down. e.g. for most, a standard requirement is a fenced-in backyard. Anyway, I learned the correct lingo and said all the correct things in my application. The rescue group I eventually ended up with put me at my ease quite quickly. I had inquired about a different dog and she spent some time telling me all about the dog - the positives and negatives. Then told me why she felt it wasn't the right pet for me. (The dealbreaker was that the dog HATED crates - and I wanted to travel with the dog). Then offered me another dog that she described as fitting all my requirements exactly. (I was really happy about that)

She brought the dog to meet me a few days later (and to do the home inspection) and he was great. We agreed to keep him for a 2 week trial period , which ended up becoming permanent. A year later, we love our little dog a LOT. 

Would I do it again?

I honestly don't know. Most people I know who raised their dogs from puppyhood have wonderful, sweet, loving dogs and they managed with kids in school and 2 working parents. We had a few essential requirements for our lifestyle - QUIET (not yappy), calm, good with children, active (for long hikes), and able to travel well (since we take him everywhere). He fits all those (quite stringent) needs.

However, since he came to us as a 4 yr old who grew up in a hoarder's home, he has issues. He:
- sometimes pees/poops in the house. He is housetrained - but is not vocal about his needs and if you miss his subtle cues, he will do it indoors (and in his crate too *sigh*). It's not horrible although my husband gets very upset when there is a messy poop on the bathroom rug. I would say he only makes mistakes about 1x a month. On the other hand, it was VERY easy to teach him the word "potty" and he will go on cue. (super helpful when we travel as sometimes all I have to offer him is a tiny patch of grass in the middle of a parking lot).

- does not know how to play. Has no clue or interest in balls, toys, nothing. My kids are pretty disappointed about this. He does love tag - but will ONLY play with me. In fact, he will NOT run unless I am running too. He is my shadow and sticks close to my heels.

Anyway, this was a rather rambling post. There were a LOT of benefits to adopting an adult dog since so much of his personality was already known. But we certainly missed the playful, trusting nature of a puppy. He's not a "cheerful" dog and I will be honest and say we do miss that. Doesn't really matter anymore - he's all ours and we love him.

libertarian4321

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1395
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #34 on: April 25, 2014, 01:32:00 AM »
We only get rescue dogs.  A much better choice than buying from a pet store that might be getting it's "livestock" from a puppy mill.

There are so many good dogs and cats that are slaughtered every day at city pounds that you are doing good when you take in a rescue pet.

While most rescue organizations will ask you a lot of questions to try and ensure that you will provide a decent home for the pet, I've never had one demand an inspection.  Though I suppose it's possible that some would.

sunnyca

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 411
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Orange County, CA
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #35 on: April 25, 2014, 01:55:05 AM »
I used to volunteer with a rescue group in college. For us, home inspections were mandatory prior to adoption. Also, the whole family (pets included, of course) had to meet the dog before we would consider adoption. 

All rescue groups have different criteria. For example, another rescue group that works with pugs will not adopt to people with rosebushes in their yard.  Apparently, pugs run into the thorns and then their eyes, well...

I currently have two cats and a dog, adopted from various shelters and rescue groups.  They're awesome.

MandyM

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 543
  • Location: Lexington, KY
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #36 on: April 25, 2014, 06:06:36 AM »
I'm late to the party, and I think most of what I would add has been said already (short story, I volunteer and am very pro-shelter).

But I'm curious - did the OP adopt a dog?

CommonCents

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2363
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #37 on: April 25, 2014, 07:40:31 AM »
I'm late to the party, and I think most of what I would add has been said already (short story, I volunteer and am very pro-shelter).

But I'm curious - did the OP adopt a dog?

Hi Mandy.  The cat still needs to get her shots.  DH is ***terrible*** procrastinator (plus he particularly hates going go to the doctor/vet/dentist) so he hasn't yet made the appointment to take her in.  In fairness, he did just travel for work, and then taxes, and then dealing with me getting sick and I'm not a good patient.  Anyways, until he takes the cat in, I'm stymied in getting a rescue dog it seems like.  I keep reminding him of this everytime he looks at the rescue site. 

MandyM

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 543
  • Location: Lexington, KY
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #38 on: April 25, 2014, 10:28:55 AM »
Good luck!

My 2 cents (I can't help but throw in some advice): Give the cat and dog a minimum of 2 weeks to get used to each other. Too many times I've had people come back after only a few days (sometimes even just 1 day) and say, "they don't get along, its not working out." I foster cats and I own both cats and dogs. I have seen cats that hiss at the dogs for a solid week and then are totally fine.

(FWIW, I rarely do anything special to get cats acclimated to the dog, outside of making sure they are safe and have a place to hide/be high. I figure most people won't so I want to see how things work out...they usually do fine given time.)

CommonCents

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2363
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #39 on: April 25, 2014, 10:41:14 AM »
Thanks!  Yes, that's my worry that if within 5 mins the cat is not happy, my husband will want to send the dog back.  I've been trying to persuade him and my sister, that my sister should bring over her dog for visits, to get the cat acclimated to another animal in the house.  Almost had my sister persuaded, but then my mother-in-law jumped in.  So the dog went to a kennel instead on their vacation.  :( 

Spork

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5742
    • Spork In The Eye
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #40 on: April 26, 2014, 11:58:11 AM »
Good luck!

My 2 cents (I can't help but throw in some advice): Give the cat and dog a minimum of 2 weeks to get used to each other. Too many times I've had people come back after only a few days (sometimes even just 1 day) and say, "they don't get along, its not working out." I foster cats and I own both cats and dogs. I have seen cats that hiss at the dogs for a solid week and then are totally fine.

(FWIW, I rarely do anything special to get cats acclimated to the dog, outside of making sure they are safe and have a place to hide/be high. I figure most people won't so I want to see how things work out...they usually do fine given time.)

OR LONGER!!!   I've had several very prey driven dogs and it generally takes a couple of months for me.  And this is per cat.  They don't seem to generalize very well. ;)

AlmostIndependent

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 518
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Anchorage, AK
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #41 on: April 27, 2014, 03:32:33 PM »
I got my rescue dog on my birthday 7 years ago. She was only 8 months old when I got her and had been adopted previously to a soldier stationed here in Anchorage. He hadn't changed her microchip into his name so when he was incarcerated she was sent back to her foster family. There were some issues at first, but nothing we haven't overcome. I have been incredibly fortunate to have such a great dog. I wish you all the best in finding a furry companion.

southern granny

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 531
Re: Getting a rescue dog
« Reply #42 on: April 28, 2014, 08:45:23 PM »
It is totally different with each rescue.  There is a lot less hassle if you go to the county animal shelter, but even they will sometimes do a home visit, especially if they have any concerns about you.  We have one rescue in our area who will only let you have a dog if you have a fenced yard, but agree that the dog will be living in the house not the yard.  You also agree that if you EVER decide you don't want the dog you have to return it to them.  There was a case recently where someone gave the dog to a friend.  The agency found out and took them to court and got the dog back.  There are lots of great dogs out there who have been given up because they owners are too lazy or too stupid to train them properly.  It won't be hard to find a good match.  Petfinder.com will let you put in the size, age  and sex of the dog you want and they will show all the dogs in your area that fits your criteria.  Good luck. 

 

Wow, a phone plan for fifteen bucks!