10 Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Dog

*Originally published on Puppyleaks.com*

Looking to get a new dog? Want to make sure you find a dog that fits in with your lifestyle? If so I recommend going through a local rescue. By going through a rescue you’ll get first hand knowledge about the dog you’re adopting. And when it comes to finding the right dog for your family it doesn’t get any better than that.

Not all dogs are right for every home, and not all potential dog owners would be willing to put in all the effort needed to keep a young Border Collie happy. This isn’t just about saving rescue animals (which of course is awesome), it’s about making the right match between dog and owner to begin with.

How Much Research Did You Put Into Your Last Car Purchase?

When you’re in the market for a new car you do your research. You check reliability ratings, crash test scores, MPG standards, available features, miles driven, and a quick check for any reported crashes and previous owners.

When you’re in the market for a new dog you could do just as much research, or you could go buy one from a pet store, breeder, shelter, or that dude on Craigslist. Puppies are cute, and if you’re not careful they’ll draw you in, it happens to the best of us. Appearance may draw you in, but it won’t do you or the dog any good in the long run if it’s not a good match.

Even though both purchases will have a great impact on your life for the next 5-15 years we usually put a lot more effort into choosing the right car.

Problems With Choosing Dogs Impulsively

Dogs require a lot of effort, and if you’re getting a puppy you can multiply that times 1000.

Dogs age and mature at different rates. It’s not uncommon for a Labrador to remain puppy like for years, our Lab growing up remained quite hyper until the age of 4 or 5. Labs are known for their awesome temperaments, but their physical and mental demands can be challenging to meet.

I’ve heard many people talk about their Labs – wondering why he has bad manners and continues to chew everything in sight. Manners can be corrected with some consistent training, the excessive chewing is probably because he’s bored and under stimulated. Labs have been bred to work alongside us, they’re not natural couch potatoes.

I’m highlighting Labs because they’re the most popular breed in America and have been for quite some time. With our ever increasing reliance on technology and the tendency towards a more sedentary lifestyle I assume many more Labs and other dogs will continue to be surrendered to shelters. They might be the sweetest and most amiable dog you’ll ever meet, but they’re not right for everyone.

I Acted Impulsively When I Got Laika

I chose Laika impulsively, when I saw those big old ears I fell in love. And when she climbed into my lap and licked my face it was a done deal.

When I got her home I realized she was quite a little terror. No manners, no bite inhibition, and a lot of resource guarding. Luckily it worked out for us. With a lot of training and consistency I taught her a much more appropriate way to interact with others. If I had already had other pets or children when I got Laika I don’t know how things would have turned out.

When I see people acting impulsively as I did I can’t help but wonder if it’s going to work out. Statistics show it doesn’t happen often – only 1 out of every 10 dogs born will find a permanent home. With such dire statistics it’s clear that either we don’t really think of dogs as a lifetime commitment, or many bad matches are made to begin with.

Faces like this are why I choose rescue. Where else can you find such a goofy Shepherd mutt like Laika?

Find The Right Dog at Your Local Rescue

We hear all the time that dogs in rescue are damaged goods. Yes it’s true that some rescue dogs aren’t good with other pets, and some aren’t good with children. Some may have fear issues, while others might be over protective. The same can be said about dogs anywhere. My neighbor has had his dogs since they were pups and they’re not what I would consider decent canine citizens. They run amok and terrorize people jogging by.

Most rescue dogs aren’t there because of behavioral issues, many of them are there at no fault of their own. Many are probably there because they weren’t a good fit for their families lifestyle to begin with. You can find any sort of dog in rescue. If you’re looking for a nice laid back family dog they’ve got those. If you’re an avid runner and want a jogging buddy they’ve got the perfect match for you. If your family wants a puppy they’ve got lots of those as well.

Can’t adopt right now? You can help animals in need by spreading the word about the benefits of adopting.

10 Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Dog

When you choose to adopt a rescue dog you get to find out about his or her quirks before you make a commitment. Choosing a dog that’s in foster means you can see how they act in a home setting. It also lessens the chance that you’ll have to spend extra time helping them adjust to life in a home environment.

You can speak to their foster and find out what they’re really like. Is he energetic? Does he love children and other dogs? Does he walk well on the leash? What are some of his favorite treats? Ask away – the foster will fill you in. You have the option to choose the right dog for your lifestyle and remove a lot of the guesswork.

1. You Can Adopt a Fully Trained Dog

If you’re a new or novice dog owner you can take out a lot of the stress from training buy adopting a dog that already knows the basics. Most adult dogs in rescue are already house trained, don’t chew, and have good manners. If you prefer the clean slate of a puppy they’ll work to find you a great pup as well.

2. You Can See the Dogs True Personality

When you’re adopting from a rescue, specifically a foster home, you can see how the dog behaves in a home environment. The foster will be able to tell you in great detail how the dog reacts in many different situations. You’ll know whether they like other animals, how they act around children & strangers, and what their energy level is like.

3. You’re Adopting a Dog That’s Been Screened

Rescue dogs should be fully vaccinated and spayed/neutered before you adopt. They’ve gone through veterinary exams and many have had behavioral assessments that test them around other animals & food.

4. You Pay Less for a Rescue Dog

When you take into consideration your dog has already been vaccinated and fixed adoption fees are extremely reasonable. Most vary from $50-300. The average cost for getting an animal fixed is between $50-170. And for anyone that’s taken their dog to the vet for shots you know how quickly those costs add up.

5. You Have a Lot of Choices

Rescues have puppies, adults, and seniors. Every breed and every mix you can think of. If you want a purebred there’s many available in rescue (approximately 30% of dogs in rescues and shelters are purebred), or you can reach out to a breed specific rescue.

6. You Can Find a Great Match For Your Lifestyle

When you work with a rescue they have the dogs future in mind. They’re committed to making sure their dogs are placed with the right family. Ask them questions, give them a list of what qualities you’re looking for – they’ll let you know if they have any dogs that match your needs. You can find an awesome dog that’s already gone through their horrible adolescence stage.

7. You Can Take the Dog For a Test Drive

Many ASPCA shelters and other rescues offer a foster to adopt program. This is especially helpful if you’ve got other pets or children at home. If you’d like to make sure the dog is a great fit before you sign the adoption paperwork ask if they have a foster to adopt program.

8. You Gain Lifetime Support

Many rescues offer support for their adopters & they’ll be available to answer any questions you might have. And in the event of something unforeseen many are willing (some even insist) to take an animal back if there’s a problem.

9. You’re Saving a Life

Every dog that’s adopted from a rescue or shelter means another spot opens up. When you adopt a dog you’re giving him a second chance at life, but you’re also helping to make room for other animals in need of a home.

10. You Can Find Awesome Mixes

You can find some beautifully unique dogs in rescue. There’s something so awesome about the uniqueness of a mutt, they really are one of a kind. If you’ve always wanted a spotted dog with a big bushy tail they can find one for you. If they don’t have one available you can be placed on a waiting list.

11. Adopting is a Way to Fight Puppy Mills

If you buy a puppy online or from a pet store there’s a 99% chance they’re from a puppy mill. Puppy mills stay in business by using deceptive tactics on potential owners. By adopting a pet from your local shelter or rescue you can fight back against puppy mills, and you can ensure that you’re not supporting their unethical breeding practices.

11. Your Dog Will Be Grateful

Shelter dogs know when they’re given a second chance. Not only will you be gaining a best friend for life, you’ll have a dog that’s grateful.

(I know I said 10 benefits but when you live with a rescue you’re always finding more)

Shelters & rescues have a wide variety of dogs. From purebreds to mutts, puppies to seniors – they’ve got a dog that’s right for everyone.

Do Your Research Before Adopting

People who work in animal rescue are doing it for the love of animals, they’re not out to make a quick buck. They’ve seen so many animals surrendered – the last thing they want is for one of their own to end up back at a shelter.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and don’t be afraid to come up with a list of what you’re looking for. The more information the workers have about you and your lifestyle the better they’ll be able to match you with the right dog. Keep in mind many rescue workers are busy volunteers, give them a few days to get back to you.

As with any organization you deal with not all rescues have the same policies. Some might require you to have a fenced yard, some may require a home visit. Although the home visit gets people nervous it’s usually to make sure you’re not a hoarder, not to give your home a white glove test.

The people who work in rescue want to see their dogs placed in permanent homes. They’re likely just as interested as you in making sure the dog is a good fit for your lifestyle.

If you live in Alaska you shouldn’t buy a Mustang, and if you’re a couch potato you shouldn’t adopt a Border Collie. It’s always wise to do your research before making any big purchase – please do the same before you adopt your new best friend.

Have You Rescued Any Pets?

Do you find that they’re forever grateful? Was the adoption process a positive experience? Any other advice you’ve give to potential adopters