Team Up with Dog Rescue Groups

Whether you're in the market for a new dog or if you are faced with the heartbreaking task of giving up your own dog, team up with your local dog rescue group. These groups are dedicated to the breeds they serve and take an active interest in rescuing their chosen breed.

Adopting a Dog through Dog Rescue Groups

For instance, if you are inspired by the president's dog choice and are considering a pure bred dog such as a Portuguese Water Dog, check the local Portuguese Water Dog rescue group in your area. Chances are they'll have a wide variety of wonderful dogs in all age ranges. In fact, choosing an adult dog may be a better choice for your family than working through the stages of puppyhood.

Giving Up a Dog to a Dog Rescue Group

Likewise, if you find yourself in a position where you must give up your beloved family pet, contact the rescue group for that breed. If they have the space and your pet qualifies, they will take him in and find a suitable home. Yes, your pet will have to qualify. This means they screen the animals to make sure they can place them. If your pet is considered vicious or otherwise unsuitable for adoption, you may have a harder time. It depends on the rescue group and their philosophy.

Qualifying to Adopt a Dog through Dog Rescue Groups

When you find a dog you want to adopt through a rescue group, be prepared to answer some tough questions about your family and your lifestyle. These groups want to make sure they are matching their dogs with a family that is right for the dog. Just as you've researched various dog breeds to match your family's temperament, these groups will research your family to make sure you match the dog's temperament.

For example, let's say you've fallen in love with an adult male Portuguese Water Dog. It turns out the dog you want has a poor history with small children - he dislikes them and tends to snap and growl at them. If you have small children, the Portuguese Water Dog rescue group will likely discourage you from choosing this particular dog and match you with a dog that is friendly and affectionate towards the kids. The other dog will be matched with a family without little ones. This is win-win for everyone involved. You get a fantastic dog that loves your kids and the more aggressive dog gets a loving family without the children the dog has issues with.

Rescue groups exist for just about every breed imaginable from Portuguese Water Dog rescue groups and Golden Retriever rescue groups to mixed breeds rescue groups. Get online and start searching.