Dog Search

Are You Ready for a Dog ?

Dog ownership has many benefits and rewards. It is easy to look at someone playing in the park or out for a walk with their dog and think how great it would be to own a dog. Dogs are wonderful companions who are always happy to see you and never get mad at you. But caring for a dog is a huge responsibility, both in time and money that should not be taken lightly. Below we will explore the benefits of having a dog and ask 6 questions to help you decide if you are really ready for a dog.

Are you ready for a dog? 6 questions you need to ask yourself.

The Benefits of Dog Ownership

As previously stated owning a dog has many benefits. Here are just five of the ways they can help make you happier and healthier:

Dog are great motivators to get you to go for that daily walk or run. You may not feel like exercising, but your dog needs to stretch their legs every day and who can say no to that sweet face.
They can help you become more social. Dog owners tend to keep to a walk/exercise schedule, which allows you to see the same people every day. The more you run into someone the more likely you will start a conversation. Plus you already have something in common to talk about.
Reduced stress from increased exercise and social contact along with having that faithful companion waiting for you at home.
Dogs can give you a sense of security. They often hear noises we don’t and sound the alarm.
Owning a dog can give you purpose. Having a purpose in life contributes in a positive way towards your health and happiest. People who live a purpose driven life are known to live longer.

Are you ready for a dog?

While owning a dog is a wonderful experience, you need to make sure you’re ready for the responsibility.

It’s important to ask yourself some hard questions and also make sure to ask anyone who will be living with the dog the same questions.

1. Do you have the time for a dog?

Someone needs to take the pup for a walk at least three/four times a day and also spend time playing with them. You also need time for training and general daily maintenance like feeding, grooming, brushing their teeth and cleaning up after your dog.

2. Are you prepared for the expense of dog ownership

Caring for a dog can be expensive. Dog care includes regular veterinary care, such as annual exams and vaccinations as well as food, bedding, training, toys, grooming and a dog walker or doggy day care. To get a better idea of what you need for your new dog read our post on the 7 items you must have for your new puppy.

Plus as your pup ages there is a greater chance that they will need additional medical care.

3. Are you willing to include a dog in all aspects of your life?

Dogs are highly social animals that are at their best when they are actively involved in as much of your life as possible. A dog that is left alone most of the day will become lonely and destructive.

4. Do you have what it takes to train a dog?

Most behavioral problems with dogs come from training or lack of it. Dogs need to be trained to know how to act. If you don’t train them properly they will do anything they please, which will not please you. You need to be consistent, firm but loving. If you don’t know how to train a dog look for a good dog training class to attend.

5. Do you have the space for a dog?

Dogs can take up a lot of space. Smaller dogs take up less space but you still need a place for a crate or bed, food and water bowls, food storage and toys. Ideally, there will be some space to play inside on rainy days. Also make sure you are allowed to have a dog where you live.

6. Are you willing to make a lifetime commitment to your dog?

Dogs can live a long time. Large dogs can live between 10 to 13 years.Small dogs can live between 13 to 18 years.But these are just averages, some dogs may live longer.

Looking into the future

Before deciding if you are ready for a dog you need to consider your lifestyle now and over the next 10 years.

What does your work schedule look like now and in the next few years? Often as we move up the ladder we need to put in more time at the office and more time traveling. Talk to people who are further along on your chosen career path to see how much time you will have in five years

You may be single right now, but what do you envision happening with your four legged friend when you meet the man or women of your dreams?

Take a hard look at your expenses and disposable income. Are you willing to give up getting the newest smart phone or chic pair of shoes to pay for any unscheduled health issues? As dogs age they tend to have more health issues. Pet health insurance can help to smooth out these costs, but make sure you know what you are getting in a policy. You can learn more about Pet Health Insurance in the post Pet Insurance – 8 Things You Should Know

You really need to know what dog care costs are in your area. Vet bills, dog food, supplies, dog walkers, and boarding all have different cost depending on where you live. Estimate how often you will use these services and then call around to see how much they cost. Like all other expenses you should have an annual budget for your dog. Keep in mind that these costs will increase with inflation.

Try a trial run

Before getting a dog of your own, consider offering to watch a friend’s dog for a week or more to get a feel for what it is like and the kind of schedule you’ll have to keep. This will help you decide if you are ready for a dog.

Wait, there’s more

Curly brown pupy on sofa - Are you ready for a dog — Petfinder.com

Whew! That was some list, huh? But wait, we are not done yet!

More things to consider:

Your home will no longer be so immaculate!

Puppyhood only lasts 8 months or so. That cute little puppy will grow up to become a larger dog. Be serious about making a commitment to your new family member

Even if your child signs a “contract” to take care of their dog, you need to keep in mind that they can only do certain things. You, the adult, will ultimately take care of many, many things for their dog

Your children will grow up. Your 10 year old son or daughter who desperately wants a dog might lose interest when they are teenagers. Also dogs generally are not allowed in dorm rooms which means when your kids move out the dog stays with you.

If you or someone in your family has allergies, bringing home a dog may cause them to get worst. Check with the doctor first to address any possible allergies. Also volunteer at a local shelter a few hours a week to see how you do around different kinds of dogs. Although there are no allergy free dogs you may react to some breeds more than other.

So, Are you ready for a Dog?

Remember, we aren’t talking about picking up the latest phone and upgrading it a couple of years down the road. You are making a LIFETIME COMMITMENT to your dog and I can’t state enough that owning a dog can be expensive and time consuming.

Only you can decide if you are ready for a dog. So please, think long and hard before deciding on a dog. It’s a lot of hard work but they are worth it.

Next Up:

Dog Adoption – Finding Your Perfect Pup

Updated – May 1, 2019

Dog Adoption – Where is the best place to find your perfect match? Now a days there are many places where you can go for dog adoptions. With so many options it is sometimes hard to decide. We will look at the pros and cons of each and touch on where you should not go for your dog adoption.

Where not to go for dog adoptions

Hopefully everyone knows that buying a puppy from a puppy store or a website that has many different breeds for sale means you are probably buying from a puppy mill. But did you know that “adopting” a dog from a puppy store can also mean you are buying from a puppy mill.

To get around laws aimed at stopping puppy mills, pet store owners are now offering dogs for adoption. But some of these dogs are actually bought from puppy mills.

Chicago Tribune Investigation

During a Chicago Tribune investigation they found that a loophole in the city ordinance allowed three Chicago pet stores to sell puppies supplied by rescues that are closely linked to longtime commercial dealers. Read more at the Chicago Tribune on line – Designer and purebred puppies from other states sold as rescue dogs in Chicago, outsmarting city ordinance

Where to go for dog adoptions

Rescue Groups vs Shelters

It is important to understand that a dog rescue group and a dog shelter are not the same. Although they are in the same business, placing dogs into homes, how they go about it is different. Rescues are independent and can choose which dogs they have available to adopt, where your county shelter will generally take in local street dogs or owner surrenders. If you are looking for a specific type of dog, either a purebred or designer dog you will have better luck with a rescue that specializes in that particular type of dog.

Another difference is that animal shelters typically keep their animals in kennels while dog rescues generally use foster homes. There is also a difference in costs. A true local animal shelter generally has a lower adoption fee. Rescue Groups tend to have higher fees associated with their adoptions.

Shelters

Dog Adoption - Where to Find Your Perfect Pup — Petfinder.com

If you would prefer the satisfying feeling of rescuing a dog in need and don’t mind the mystery of a mixed breed then a shelter may be the right place for you.

Shelter Dogs have a lot going for them. I can’t really explain it but shelter dogs tend to be more grateful. They typically know what a hard life is and are more appreciative when they are given a good life. Also since shelter dogs tend to be mixed breed (though you can find a purebred on occasion), the combination of two or more dog breeds can balance out their personalities, physical characteristics and health concerns.

Just remember that if you select a mixed breed puppy from a shelter there is no way of knowing exactly which breeds make up the mix, how your puppy will look or what health problems they may end up with.

How to Find a Shelter

Finding a local shelter is fairly easy. Just look on Petfinder.com or do a google search for local shelters.

Finding a dog that fits exactly what you are looking for at a local shelter is not. We had a really hard time finding the right one. Read: Shelter Dogs – The Realities of Finding One to hear about some of our experiences in the search to find a dog.

Rescue Groups

Within the realm of Rescue
Groups there are at least two categories. The first are the rescues that do it for the love of dogs. Often they tend to be breed specific and have been around for a while. They are generally founded by people who love and understand the breed, sometimes they are breeders themselves. It is a labor of love and not done for the money. Then you have a new trend that has been labeled Retail Rescue. These Rescue Groups are in it for the money.

If you look on Petfinder.com you will find a large assortment of rescues. It is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a rescue who only wants to save the lives of dogs and the one that does it primarily for the money. I might even argue that as long as a dog is being saved it doesn’t matter. Right?

Sometimes it does matter

At its best retail rescues have beautiful dogs that are handpicked to be adopted quickly and the only downside is higher fees.

At its worst retail rescues are a scam. Some will foster or kennel dogs out of state until they have a buyer. Then you must pay the non-refundable adoption fee before you can meet the dog. You see the dog for the first time on the day you pick them up to bring them home. It is not uncommon for the adopters of these dogs to be stuck with sick and dying dogs. It had gotten so bad that the state of Connecticut created laws against the practice.

A word on Petfinder. com – We used petfinder.com to find our most recent pup. It is a pretty easy way to search for all the available dogs (and cats) in your area. Petfinder.com requires that all parties wishing to use their site go through an application and screening process prior to posting. They must also provide a letter of reference from their primary veterinarian.

Watch Out for Scams

To protect yourself use a reputable dog adoption website like Petfinder.com. Petfinder has a screening process in place to ensure only reputable rescues can advertise on their site. Then do your homework. Do extensive research on any rescue you have an interest in before submitting an application.

Research should include but not be limited to:

A general online search for good or bad reviews
Ask questions
- How did the dog end up at the rescue?
- Where did they come from?
- Ask for proof of origin.
- Find out as much as possible about the dogs background as you can.
- Ask for the medical records and get the vets name so you can verify the information.
Check the IRS website to make sure they have a 501(c)(3) charity status – Tax Exempt Organization Search
Check to see if there is any feedback on the Rescue Group at these charity watch sites

Additional resources for finding a rescue dog

Rescue Dogs: Tips on How to Get One

Surprisingly adopting a rescue dog from either a local shelter or rescue group is not that easy. As more people are choosing to adopt rescue dogs over buying from breeders, the demand for rescue dogs has gone up. This has allowed shelter and rescue groups to become more selective when finding adopters for the dogs in their care. This is especially true for the more popular dog breeds. Having gone through this experience ourselves, we will provide you with the tips and tricks that helped us get the rescue dog we were looking for.

Rescue Dogs: What you Need to Do to Find Your Perfect Rescue Dog

Rescue Dogs in the Past

Years ago when we adopted our first dog, Charlie, we simply went to our local shelter and asked to see the available dogs. We were asked a few questions about the type of dog we were looking for, where we lived and if we had a big yard. Next, they showed us a beautiful 5 year old purebred Golden Retriever. Since we really didn’t know much about selecting a dog from a shelter we asked a few basic questions and decided to adopt him. After filling out the required paperwork which included personal references, we paid a small fee and left. A couple of hours later, after they checked our references, they gave us a call to come get Charlie. The process was very quick and very easy.

This was not our experience when we were recently looking for our newest rescue. It took us over four months and a lot of rejections before we were able to find a dog we could adopt.

Rescue Dogs Now

Purebred dogs don’t often find themselves at local shelters anymore. Typically, breed specific rescue groups will “rescue” these dogs from a shelter to prevent the dog from being put down. Since rescue groups tend to use foster homes to house the dogs they are able to rescue more dogs then a county run shelter could. Also since the overall cost to foster a dog is lower than keeping a dog in a shelter they can hold on to the dogs for a longer period of time.

Thanks to a lower cost to take care of the dogs and the higher demand rescues can be very selective about prospective adopters. It also means they have some leeway in how much they charge for the adoption.

Why Are Rescue Groups So Selective?

Dog Safety – There was a time when people would adopt animals from shelters only to resell them to research companies for experiments. Also there are cases where adopted dogs were used as bait in dog fights. You may never think to harm an animal but there are some that would. For those reasons, rescue groups go to great lengths to ensure the dogs go to a good home.

They don’t want the dog returned. You will find that almost every dog rescue group and shelter requires that if you cannot keep the dog for any reason, you must return it to them. This is to ensure the animal does not end up in harm’s way. Although the dog might be returned for no fault of their own, most people are leery of dogs that have been returned making it harder to find a new home. For this reason the rescue group wants to make sure they find the right person for the dog.

How to Increase Your Chance of Being Selected By a Rescue Group

How to Increase Your Chance of Being Selected for a Rescue Dog. Gray puppy sitting

Be Flexible

The more flexible you are with the type of dog you are looking for, the easier it will be to find a dog. Here are some ways to compromise on the dog you want:

Consider getting an older dog instead of a puppy. Older dogs sometimes have the benefit of being previously trained.
Be open to different genders or colors
Purebreds are hard to come by – Consider getting a mixed breed dog that is part your desired breed

Rescue Dogs: Tips on How to Get One. Picture of a white fluffy dog

At this point you might be asking what is the right dog for me? Only you can answer this question. But we can help. We have laid out a series of questions to help you decide which type of dog best fits your lifestyle in What is the Right Dog for Me?

Research Local Shelters/Rescues

Adoption Process

Do your research on the dog shelters/rescues in your area to find out how the adoption process works. You should find out if:

They take multiple applications on a dog and then decide which applicant best meets the dog’s needs?
There is a strict first come first serve policy?
Personal references are required?
Veterinarian references are required?
You need to bring your dog to meet the rescue dog?
Your kids need to meet the dog?

Tip: You should do these last two points even if the dog rescue group does not require them.

Rescue Dogs: Tips on How to Get One. Picture of a brown fluffy dog sitting.

Dog Adoption – Where is the best place to find your perfect match? These days there are so many places where you can go to find a rescue dog. With so many options it is sometimes hard to decide. We will look at the pros and cons of each and touch on where you should not go for your dog adoption in Dog Adoption – Finding Your Perfect Pup

Know their Requirements

Find out what the dog rescue/shelter requirements are. You should find out if:

There are age restrictions for children?
Living in a house a requirement?
They require a fenced in yard?
You need to have an older dog in the home to teach the new dog manners?
They require you to be an experienced dog owner?
Home checks are required?
You need to reside within a certain distance from them?
They require follow-up home visits?
The dogs neeare spayed or neutered before leaving the rescue?
They require that the dog have a microchip.

Narrowing Down the Search for Rescue Dogs

Now that you have done your research on local rescue groups you should narrow the number of rescues you want to follow. Here are tips on how to decide which rescue groups best fit what you are looking for:

Look at the rescue group’s past adoptions to see what types of dogs they tend to offer. Many times rescues chose to specialize in certain types; like Golden Retriever Rescue, Labradoodle rescue or Doodle Rescue.
Make sure you fit their requirements. When I first started looking at rescues I searched all rescues within a 4 hour driving radius. I was turned down several times because I lived too far away to do a house check.
Ask around for references. Chances are if they are a local group someone you know may have had a previous experience with them.
Check on line to see if there are any complaints about the group. Local Facebook groups can be helpful. Be very caution if you see people complaining about the rescue group online

Once you have found a hand full of rescues/shelters that fit what you are looking for and you fit their requirements, concentrate looking at just those shelters.

Finding Rescue Dogs to Adopt

Now that you have your preferred groups in order, it’s time to get down to finding an adoptable dog. To increase your chances of finding a dog and being selected you should do the following:

Fill out an application at the shelter or rescue that you are interested in. Most places will keep the application on file for 6 months. This will allow them to check your references ahead of time and speed up your approval process. With rescue dogs in high demand you have to be quick.
Check the pet rescue sites at night and/or first thing in the morning to see what was added. For groups that use the first come first served method of selection being the early bird will get you the worm, or in this case dog.
Set up email alerts on pet rescue websites. Petfinder.com allows you to fine tune your search down to the type of dog and your preferred location.
Follow your preferred rescue/shelters on Facebook. Rescues tend to send out notifications on new available dogs before they show up on the big rescue sites.
Join Facebook groups that specialize in re-homing the type of dog you are looking for. Many dogs never even make it to the big rescue sites like Petfinder.com.

Be Patient

It is very important that you be patient. You will find the right dog for you but it may take some time.

The process might seem a bit overwhelming to you at first, but with a little work and a lot of patience you will soon find your furry BFF.

Have any tips to share you would like to share on how to adopt a rescue dog? Please let us know in the comments.

Understanding Breeds and Traits

Understanding Breed Traits — PetFinder.com

When looking for a dog it’s important to understand breed traits. Whether you choose a purebred puppy from a breeder or a mixed breed from a shelter, all dogs will have certain behaviors based on their breeding.

This means that even though you may want a cute and fuzzy sheepdog as your fellow couch potato, that sheepdog needs some time to run every day. If dogs are not able to be exercised in a way that matches their traits, most dogs will become bored and possible destructive.

Dogs are commonly divided into categories based on job they were breed for. Understanding the dog’s original purpose and the personality traits that go along with that purpose will help you find a dog that gels with your lifestyle.

Bull dogs

happy-oodles-which-dog-is-right-for-you-dog-categories-bull-fl

Bulls were originally bred to protect livestock and property, over time some were bred to fight other dogs or attack bulls in a sport called bull baiting.

The bull dog category includes Bulldogs, Bull Terriers, Pit Terriers, Staffordshire Terriers and Stafford Bulls Terriers.