How to Decide if a Rescue Dog is Right for You

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By Kallicat
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You are thinking about getting a dog, a rescue dog. Rescue animals can be a source of great joy, not to mention, if you adopt one, it helps to home one of the many displaced animals in the country. Dogs end up at a rescue for various reasons, use the following tips to determine if a rescue dog is right for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Adopt Me

First, decide what kind of dog you are looking for. What breed? What size? What temperament? Adult, young, or puppy? Or perhaps you have it in your heart to take in an elderly dog and provide it a wonderful loving home for the last years of its life.
Step 2

Adopt Me

Rescue animals can be wonderful pets. There are some things you should be aware of though. Many times people get rid of troublesome pets. The rescue dog could have behavior problems that will require extra time and attention. They may not be potty trained. They may have health problems that will require medical care. So be ready to meet these needs and address the issues if you rescue a dog.
Step 3

Adopt Me

With all the possible challenges in your mind, visit your local animal shelter to see if there are any dogs there that meet your criteria. If there are, spend some time with the dog. Take him/her for a walk. Ask lots of questions of the shelter staff; they may/may not have the answers.
Step 4

Adopt Me

Another wonderful place to find a rescue dog is Petfinder.com. I have included a link in the links section. You can search by the attributes you'd like your dog to have: male/female, small-large, what breed? etc. Once you find a dog you like, send a message to the rescue group. Make sure to ask about health, temperament, any discipline issues, as well as the cost to adopt. Arrange to meet the dog prior to making your final decision.
Step 5

Adopt Me

You can also visit many different rescue groups online. Be prepared to pay several hundred dollars for your rescue dog, more if it is a small breed or a purebred. Most rescues make sure the dog is healthy, has all their shots, and is spayed or neutered prior to their adoption.
Step 6

Adopt Me

If you decide rescue is not for you, make a donation. Pet rescue groups can always use money, pet food, blankets, etc. Lastly, please spay and neuter your pets to eliminate the pet over-population problem!