How to Adopt a Dog From a Breed Rescue Group

Breed rescue groups are the humane choice for individuals looking for a specific breed, but who don't want to contribute to the tremendous pet overpopulation problem by paying a breeder for their dog. Adopting from a breed rescue group provides a much-needed home for a purebred who may have come from a shelter, a defunct breeding operation, a family that didn't want him or a life as a stray. Read on to learn how to adopt a dog from a breed rescue group.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Research the breed of dog you're interested in adopting to ensure the characteristics of the breed match your lifestyle. The American Kennel Club provides detailed information on more than 150 breeds of dogs.
2. Contact your town's animal shelter, or search the Internet for a breed rescue group that specializes in the purebred dog you're interested in adopting.
3. Ask the breed rescue group's representative a number of questions, including where the dogs come from, how and where the dogs are cared for, how the group decides on where to place the dogs and if they offer any post-adoption help or classes.
4. Determine what kind of purebred dog you are interested in adopting. Ask yourself if you want a young and energetic dog to play with your kids, a senior dog to curl up on the couch with you or a handicapped dog to nurture and love. Breed rescue groups often have a wide variety from which you can choose.
5. Participate in the breed rescue group's screening process. Breed rescue groups will not place an animal in your home unless they are certain you will take good care of the dog. Expect to fill out paperwork, participate in an interview and have a representative visit your home visit before you can meet any of the dogs.
6. Meet your new dog in either your home or a neutral setting, such as a park. Approach the dog cautiously, as you would any animal with whom you are unfamiliar, and allow your interaction with the dog to grow naturally.
7. Pay the breed rescue group its adoption fee and take your new friend home.

Tips & Warnings

• Call The Humane Society of the United States at [phone] and ask for the Companion Animals department for help in finding a breed rescue group in your area.
• Adopting a dog from a breed rescue group is markedly cheaper (and much more humane) than purchasing a dog from a breeder. Adoption fees vary from group to group.
• Breed rescue groups are run by individuals who are very familiar with the temperament, health and nutritional needs and behavior issues of the breed you're interested in adopting. They will answer your questions and assist you in discovering whether or not that breed is the right one for you and your family members.