Question to Ask when Adopting
Question to Ask when Adopting:
* Was the
dog an owner turn-in, stray, or a shelter save? The shelter will likely have more information about an owner turn-in.
* If he was an owner turn-in, why did they give him up? Did the family provide any information about the
dog? Find out what you can about your new
dog’s past; it will be helpful in training him.
* How old is the
dog (may be approximate)? Rescue
dogs range in age from 8 weeks to more than 15 years.
* How long has the
dog been in foster care or in the shelter? A
dog who has been in a shelter for a long time may experience some kennel-related behavior issues, such as a need for remedial housetraining. If a
dog has spent substantial time in a foster home, the foster family can likely give you good information about him.
* Did he have any medical or behavioral issues on arrival? These may or may not be serious.
* What medical treatment has he received? Find out if the treatments must be continued or if there are any long-tem effects.
* Has he received training and socialization while in his foster or home or the shelter? Will training need to be ongoing?
* Does the
dog have any training or behavior issues that will need to be addressed, such as
dog aggression or housetraining? Determine whether these are issues you can handle.
* What is the
dog’s activity level? What are his exercise needs? Choose a
dog whose activity level compliments your own.
* Is this
dog compatible with my lifestyle? A rescue or shelter should be able to help you match your lifestyle with a certain
dog.
* Has the
dog shown any signs of aggression toward people or animals? A
dog with aggressive behavior requires special training. If you are not experienced in training
dogs with aggression, do not choose this
dog.
* Does the
dog show a preference for certain types of people-men, women, children, the elderly? Dogs are adaptable, but try for a good match.
* Does the
dog require a
dog friend in the home? Don’t forget about your existing
pets when
adopting.
* What is the rescue group or shelter’s return policy? If the new home doesn’t work out or the
dog is found to have major medical problems, will the rescue or shelter take back the
dog?
* Has he been altered and has he received his shots and first worming? Ideally, this will be done. However, many municipal shelter provide only the bare minimum.
Share this article on Question to Ask when Adopting with friends.
If you enjoyed this article please take a look at our Pet Tips and Information Archive.