The Obama's Will Adopt a Portuguese Water Dog (and You Should Too)

The Change just keeps on coming. President Obama and the First Family recently announced that they will be adopting a Portuguese Water Dog. If you've never heard of the breed, you have to check them out. The Obama's chose the Portuguese Water Dog primarily because of its hypo-allergenic coat, medium size, and great temperament. Plus, they are a Democrat fave. Senator Ted Kennedy has several, and his endearing stories (including a children's book 'narrated' by one of his dogs: My Senator and Me: A Dog's Eye View of Washington) helped the Obama's to make the decision.

But their decision to adopt, and the message it sends out to the public, is the star of this story in my opinion. Little orphan dogs and cats all over the country are undoubtedly breathing a sigh of relief. Maybe now, more Americans will follow the Obama example, and adopt a new family member instead of buying one. Adopting a dog is a fraction of the cost of buying one and, as the Obama's undoubtedly know, there are many options available to rescue pure breeds like the Portuguese Water Dog. If you'd like to follow their example, check out these great sites for rescuing breeds.

www.pwdca.org
If, like the Obama's, you're interested in the Portuguese Water Dog, check out the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America's Rescue and Relocation Program. They have PWD's that have been found in shelters, turned in by owners, and found wandering the streets. They certify the dogs whenever possible, but they also spay and neuter each and every dog so that no more irresponsible breeding can take place. They also offer extensive assistance to new Portuguese Water Dog owners, and follow up with all dogs to make sure the placement is working out.

www.akc.org
The American kennel Club is a great site to search (by breed) for rescue organizations that specialize in specific breeds of dogs. They list every type of breed from Affenpinschers to Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, so this is the place to go for specialty breeds. And the more common breeds have several rescue organizations available so you may even be able to find something in your area. All of the rescue organizations are required to register with the AKC, so you know you're dealing with quality organizations.
www.sbprdogs.org
If you are looking to rescue a purebred like the Obama's, you have to consider the possibility of looking outside of the state. Luckily, organizations like South Bay Purebred Rescue feature websites with extensive information about all of the dogs available for adoption. All of their rescued dogs live in foster homes, and receive training and veterinary care until they are ready to be adopted. My favorite thing about things about this site are their Non-Profit status (consider donating), variety of purebred dogs available (their Adoption Gallery Page is updated at least weekly), and motto: "Until there are none, adopt one."

www.petfinder.com
Petfinder is a great place to search for dogs (and all sorts of other animals) that are looking for a loving home. Their search engine allows you to search for purebred dogs, or mixed breeds according to age, size, gender, and location. A more advanced search even allows you to pick the dominant breed of the mixed breed dog of your dreams, exclude pets not recommended for children and specify whether you want special needs or de-clawed pets.