SolveYourProblem.com
Article Series: Dog Adoption
How Do I Adopt A Dog?
How
To Adopt A Shelter Dog
Do you think you have what it takes to be
a true dog lover? If there was one thing that you can do in
this world that would greatly contribute to the canine family,
would you be willing to sacrifice a little extra time and patience?
What I am talking about is adopting a dog or puppy from your
local animal shelter. There is no better service you or I could
make in terms of raising a dog than by providing a positive,
loving home to a perfectly good shelter animal.
For some of you, the idea of adopting a shelter dog will instantly
cause you to become negative or feel defensive toward these
animals. You have too many preconceived notions and assumptions
that could be stopping you from saving a dog's life, one that
would make a great house pet if you just had the open mind
and a little bit of extra time to train it.
Have I Talked You Into Adoption Yet?
I'm sure it may take a bit more persuasion for some of you
to open up your hearts and minds to adopting a shelter dog,
but for the rest of you who have decided that you want to visit
your local animal shelters to find a dog or puppy who needs
a good home, make sure that you approach the staff with a few
questions before making your decision.
Ask about what kind of medical treatment the dogs receive.
Most organized animal shelters will at least provide the minimum
care necessary needed for a dog to go home with you, however,
there are some places that unfortunately neglect important
medical guidelines.
What To Look For
Any organization that handles animals should have a licensed
veterinarian on staff at all times. This veterinarian will
provide vaccinations in order to prevent hepatitis, distemper,
and other health issues. Ask the staff, or talk with the veterinarian
if possible, if these dogs have had their blood checked for
heartworms. And is the skin clean of fleas and other parasites?
These are just the basic medical requirements that every person
should look for when adopting a dog from an animal shelter.
Other needs may be a bit more complex.
For example, do you have your sights set on a dog that has
been injured in the past, or is currently healing from an injury?
What type of injury is it? What type of medication and treatment
has the dog received? Ask about the cost of future treatment
and medical needs that will arise.
And Don't Forget...
Another important set of questions and research that you should
talk with your local animal shelter about is whether or not
they have a professional who evaluates each dogs' temperament.
Most shelters have this information posted on the front of
each cage that is designated to the specific dog, or other
animal.
It is important that you take this information and assess
whether or not it is detailed enough so that the dog can be
trusted with your family set up. The staff should also know
how the animal reacts with children and around outside stimulants
such as moving cars, other people, etc.
This information is valuable in determining whether or not
the shelter dog you are considering will be a good match for
your home situation. In addition, ask the staff specific questions
regarding a dog's attitude towards being submissive or dominant.
Are they overprotective of territory? How often does aggressive
behavior occur and for what reasons? The more questions you
ask, the better you will feel when you take your adopted shelter
dog home.
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SolveYourProblem.com
: 2009
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