I Want a rescue dog - WHAT NOW?
Rescue Dogs - what are my options?
Rescuing a dog is a wonderful thing to do and there are so many dogs in need of a good home like yours. But getting a puppy or dog can be a minefield these days and its worth being in the know. After all, you’re likely to have your pooch for 13 years or more.
Rescuing a Dog from Europe
It is very hard to look at photos of dogs holed up in Europe waiting for someone to give them a chance. It can really pull on our heartstrings and it’s very easy to get carried away and use our hearts to make a decision rather than our head.
Here are a few hard hitting facts to read before you make a decision:
There are 400,000 dogs coming in from Eastern Europe every year, the majority from Romania.
Some from reputable breeders, but also many more from unscrupulous profiteers.
Well meaning rescues will also take dogs off the street and send them over to the UK; this for you can be a high risk strategy.
They may not have been socialised to people - they can be very fearful and even aggressive towards men in particular.
They are unlikely to have had any lead walking experience and can be very reactive to other dogs.
They may not have lived in a house before and can take a lot of time to toilet train.
They may be fearful, anxious, aggressive or even sick. You will have to pick up the bill.
Once the dog is here there is no handing it back if things arn’t working out.
You need all these questions answered and to see clear video clips of your potential dog in lots of different settings before you agree to purchase. Be very prepared to start from scratch and have the time and energy to re train your rescue; it may mean you have to spend money with a professional to help your dog adjust.
True Story: I had a call from a lovely couple recently whose mate had told them about a breeder in Eastern Europe selling . All seemed well with lots of lovely photos and when the dog arrived she seemed a good dog. That is, until they had to go back to work. Betty howled the place down; the neighbours complained. They called the breeder who immediately blocked them, she had her money. They had no recourse at all, and separation anxiety is not an easy thing to resolve. The good news is that with my help progress in being made. Would they get another dog from Europe- absolutely not.
Rescuing a dog from a UK shelter
Fact: There are over 20 dogs being put to sleep in the UK every day. This is a little known statistic.
There are also good and dodgy rescues, its often better to get a recomendation from a friend and then go and check out their facilities.
Small Shelters
Many smaller shelters are run by people who love dogs but may not match you to the most suitable breed. You need to be very aware that they will have a list of dogs waiting to come in to rescue, never more so than right now and may be keen to move dogs on. You can find an absolute gem but be prepared to walk away, keep at the top of your mind that this dog is going to be with you for a long time.
Large brand name Shelters:
Large, well known rescues such as the Dogs Trust, Battersea Dogs Home will vet you properly but are very stringent with their rules and guidelines. They may turn you down, don’t be offended, there are plenty more dogs looking for someone just like you. You will be given time with the dog and good rescues will ensure you have back up if you need it, however, my experience has been that its very hit and miss. They can still come with behavioural issues and they will take the dog back if it doesn’t work out. However, I’ve found that families have already bonded with the dog and worry that it won’t find a good home if its sent back.
Specific breed rescues and charities:
These can be a great option, particularly if you know the breed of dog you want. Dogs will often have spent time with a foster family and you can get specific information as to the dogs character and any issues it may have ie not cat friendly or pulls on the lead. Most will be very happy to give ongoing advice or will take the dog back if necessary. This wouold be my preferred option for you.
Buying off the Internet:
This is an absolute NO in my opinion. The risks are as high as buying in from Europe. Don’t do it. Think about it, this is the preferred sales route for:
Puppy Farmers
People whose dog is out of control and they want to pass it on. People will lie through their teeth to get rid of a problem dog.
Again, you have absolutely no recourse, and will end up picking up a hefty bill at the Vet or with a professional trainer - there are so many heartbreaking stories I could tell you.
Finally, until the Government really gets its act together and cracks down on the rogue traders out there, we need to be incredibly sensible before taking on what we hope is going to be the dog of our dreams. It could turn out to be your worst nightmare.
Lynne Marshall