How to Rescue a Bichon in Oklahoma

If you live in Oklahoma and are thinking about buying a bichon frise, try to rescue one instead. Most recognized for their small sturdy frames, fluffy white hair and playful personalities, these dogs make wonderful family pets. But bichon frise dogs are not for everyone. They require moderate exercise, extensive grooming and can be very difficult to house train. If you have the time to devote to an orphaned bichon frise dog, rescue one in need.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Locate an Oklahoma bichon frise rescue organization. Contact Small Paws, a Tulsa based bichon frise rescue organization or find an orphaned bichon frise online at Pet Finder. Speak with your local Humane Society about rescuing a bichon frise. They will connect you to rescue organizations in the area or contact you when they have a bichon frise available.

2. Fill out an adoption application. Many bichon frise rescue organizations require you to fill out an extensive questionnaire. Be prepared to provide information about your family, your home, your employment, your other pets, your past experience with dogs and your reasons for rescuing a bichon frise. Have a list of personal references as well as the names of your veterinarian and dog groomer readily available. Several bichon frise rescue organizations also require a face to face interview before you can finalize the adoption.

3. Pay the adoption fee. Most Oklahoma bichon frise rescue organizations ask you to cover the costs that the dog incurred while in their care. This typically includes the cost of food, medical care, spaying and neutering and micro-chipping. Make an additional donation of food, related supplies or money if you want to help support the continued work of the organization.

4. Puppy-proof your home. You're likely rescuing an orphaned adult bichon, but you are not familiar with his behavior. Make sure your home is completely safe for his arrival. Move all poisonous plants, cleaners, medicines and insecticides out of the dog's reach. Check your backyard fence to ensure that it is completely secure. Unplug any electrical cords that your bichon might have access to. Find more information about making your home safe for your bichon frise online at Bichon.org.

5. Know how to care for your rescued bichon frise. Bichon frise dogs have unique characteristics and needs. Talk to your vet about how to provide the best care possible for your new pet. Common health problems in the bichon frise dog include skin allergies, bladder infections and ear infections. Frequent and extensive grooming is also required to prevent mats in their coats. Read more information about how to care for a bichon frise online at Canis Major.

Tips & Warnings

• The bichon frise breed is known for it's gentle and affectionate disposition and is not typically dog or human-aggressive. Contact a professional obedience trainer immediately if your bichon frise displays aggressive behavior.

Resources

• Contact an Oklahoma bichon frise rescue organization
• Find an orphaned bichon frise in Oklahoma
• Puppy-proof your home for your bichon frise
• Know how to care for a Bichon Frise