Selecting a Rescue or Shelter Dog

There are hundreds, perhaps thousands of them. When you log onto websites looking you will soon find yourself adrift in a sea of dogs. Adopting a dog for your family is a daunting task that involves a lot of research, a great deal of patience and a little bit of luck. Here are some ways that you can make your search for a family pet a little easier.

Once you have decided that you want a dog, the next question is what breed of dog to select. There are many pet finding dog search sites that let you select traits and qualities to help you select the best breed for you family and home. One such site, selectsmart.com even allows you to place the priority you have for each trait. By doing this up front research, you ensure you have the right type of dog for your lifestyle and members of your home. This also prevents heartache if you adopt a dog that is not a fit for you. Also decide if you want a puppy, young or older dog.

Read extensively about the breeds you are considering. Make sure you know if they are vocal dogs, if they are good with kids or visitors. All of these qualities are important. While every dog has some less than desirable characteristics, you should really consider the temperament and trainability of a dog before you adopt. Shelter and rescue dogs may also be skittish or standoffish because of their time spent in the shelter or around lots of other dogs in a frightening place.

Make sure you read all the fine print when you sign up with adoption shelters and rescue groups. Dogs in shelters that are puppies may have been exposed to PARVO, which can kill many dogs young and old. Ask what happens if you bring the dog home and it is frighteningly aggressive and you have children? Using a site like petfinder.com make it easier to locate rescue groups and shelters. Puppies and young dogs tend to be adopted very quickly. If you are interested in a puppy you do need to move fast on adoptions. There are also many adult and senior dogs that will make great companions.

Consider everything! It is vitally important that you really know the breeds that are mixed into a mutt. Some shelters will be a bit clandestine when the mixed in dog is an aggressive breed (like a Pit Bull). Take the time to bring all members of your household when you meet the dog. Get down on the ground and interact with the animal. If you are sure you want to adopt, make sure you ask if they can give you a tax deduction form. These forms can help you save the cost of the adoption fee. Happy hunting!