4PetsOnline.com » Pet Adoption

Charities This Blog Supports

Anne — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:31:24 +0000

Yesterday I published details of the 4PetsOnline drive to support small volunteer run charities with your online shopping dollars. Today I thought it would be a good idea to explain further about the charities I shall pick.

They won’t be big, what I term “fat-cat” charities that operate out of fancy buildings and pay their CEO’s exorbitant salaries. Take a look at my first choice the Pet Adoption Fund. They are a small organization, located in Canoga Park, California. They are an all volunteer organization with a 501 (c) status and rely solely on donations to keep operating.

There are thousands of little, no-kill pet rescue charities struggling to keep their doors open all over North America and I would welcome your suggestions. Please leave a comment at the bottom of this post telling me about a charity you would like to see added to the list.

Incidentally, if you are reading this and live in the San Fernando Valley, the Pet Adoption Fund is desperately in need of volunteers who will foster kittens, puppies, or timid dogs. If you’ve never been a foster parent…it is the most rewarding experience ever. They are also in need of volunteers over the age of 18 to walk their dogs of all sizes. If you are interested, please email Click here to send them an email

Did You Know Dogs Love Avocados

Anne — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 16:22:13 +0000

Most dogs love avocados. They taste good, and they are an excellent source of fat. Fat is responsible for providing dogs with extra amount of energy and gives them healthy skin as well as an extra glow in their coat.

Strangely enough, it was the dogs themselves who led us to the idea of using the avocado as a supplement to the canine diet. It seems that avocado growers’ pet dogs were competing with the growers for any fallen fruit. The growers became curious and decided to compare the nutrients that this amazing fruit contained with those needed by canines.

According to a Veterinary professor at Iowa State University, this fruit enhances hair quality as well as skin tone, with which avocado growers have reported in their dogs is most likely due to the amount of linoleic acid of the fruit when added to the dog’s diet.

Of course, this fruit alone could not be recommended as the only nutrient source for dogs. But an avocado, in small quantities as a supplement, might be helpful if adequate amount of fat were not available from other sources.

A dog’s requirement of fat depends mostly on the amount of activity he engages in. For instance, an active working dog needs up to twenty percent fat in his diet, while the average household dog that walks a few blocks everyday needs only five to eight percent of fat in his diet. The very thin dog should get a diet rich in fat until his weight and health improve. The pregnant and nursing female dog also needs greater amounts of fat in her diet.

The majority of canine canned foods contain adequate fat to satisfy the need of an average household dog. However, if the dog is fed a diet strictly of dry meal, it might be moistened with additional sources of fat.

Avocados are an excellent source of fat for this purpose. And for canines that get most of their fat from canned foods, this tasty fruit also serves as an occasional treat. Avocados might be alternated with other occasional food supplements to add variety to the dog’s regular diet. Simply put, dogs love avocados and they are good for them!

Word Of Warning: Documented evidence suggests that some dogs, as well as other domestic animals like cats and cattle, can be severely harmed and prove fatal when they eat the avocado pit, skin, leaves, and bark of the avocado tree. Therefore, when supplementing your dog’s diet with avocados, make sure to only give him the meat of the fruit.

How To Help A Fearful, Retired Racing Dog With An Abusive History

Anne — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 15:07:32 +0000

Several years ago, Elizabeth, a single mother of three teenage boys, had been in contact with the Greyhound Pets of America (a rescue group that finds homes for retired racing greyhounds). She asked the group if they had an adult dog that would get along well with cats, as Elizabeth also loved cats and had several of them.

A lovely greyhound named Bronze fit the bill. Just several days later Bronze was welcomed with loving arms into his new home.

Bronze didn’t know a lot of small things right away, such as how to climb stairs or comprehend a see-through glass doors, windows, etc. He did not know how to play and was very wary of people, particularly tall, thin males. And something especially peculiar – he was literally afraid of his own shadow!

Any of these things caused fear in Bronze, and his resulting reaction was aggression; snarling and growling. Elizabeth was worried that his behavior would go beyond this response, and develop into biting or attacking.

Soon Bronze showed fear towards another specific occurrence: Anytime Elizabeth’s brother came to visit, wearing his usual leather jacket and ball cap, Bronze would again start his aggressive stance and snarling. The same thing happened when Elizabeth’s sons came home with their noisy friends.

The Cause Of Bronze’s Fear

As you know, Bronze was an ex-race dog, so Elizabeth decided to contact a canine psychologist. The doctor was able to identify the problem right away. He had asked Elizabeth to obtain a picture of the dog’s ex-trainer, who turned out to be a very tall, skinny man who wore a long black coat, along with a hat that resembled a baseball cap.

Add to this evidence the obvious experiences of the dog having raced at the track: crowds of noisy people, confinement, guns firing, running, more confinement, lots of harsh training commands from his trainer – it was no wonder Bronze reacted the way he did when he was adopted.

Managing these issues was not going to be an easy task. It required Elizabeth to have constant vigilance. The doctor instructed her to remove the noisy teenagers from his presence, teaching Elizabeth to be cautious of how she gave commands to Bronze, as well as have her brother take off his black leather jacket and ball cap when visiting.

In time, Bronze was able to calm down. Within 12 months he was less afraid of noise and the appearance of any man resembling his past trainer became less of a threat. Bronze lived to be thirteen years old and because of his new owner’s love and care and learning how to communicate, he was a lucky dog – one that enjoyed the right that every canine has – to be loved and part of a real family.

What You Can Learn From This Story

If you are also considering bringing home an adult dog that has had a history of competing in sports, such as a racing dog, you should prepare yourself by taking lessons from the above story. It will not only teach you how to communicate with your problem dog, but could also save him or her from being sentenced to a lonely life and eventual death at a pound.

Where can you learn more about adopting an ex-racing greyhound yourself?

By far the best advice I have come across is in Regan Black’s “Adopt A Greyhound Guide”. If you want more information before deciding which greyhound to choose, or even to help you decide if you should get a greyhound, then this guide is exactly what you need. Click Here for full details.

How To Adopt A Service Dog

Anne — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:05:03 +0000

If you’re lucky enough to be purchasing a dog that was trained to provide a service for people, or a least adopting a dog that was accepted for such training but did not make it for some reason, you are in for a special treat. Most people aren’t even aware that such dogs exist.

What type of pets are we talking about? Any dog that was trained for or actually worked a “career” by leading the blind and helping other disabled people is a prime example.

You Have 3 Choices Of Service Dogs To Choose From

When looking to adopt a professionally trained career dog, your choices come in three different forms: dogs that are retired from being guides, “career changing” dogs, and finally, there are the canines that for some reason did not make it through the training program, or simply put – flunkies.

Guide Dogs No More: Just like people, service dogs cannot work their jobs forever. As these animals get older, they become slower and are no longer effective in helping their owners. The average amount of time that a service dog can work is approximately 8 years. At this point they become prime candidates for adoption by people like you and me.

Dogs That Had Multiple Careers: Many dogs can be taken out of one service job and then trained for another. The reasons for this can vary. It may be because of temperament issues, medical concerns, or perhaps a dog was just not a suitable match for its owner. For example, a dog may be retired from guide service and then prepared and transferred to work at a rehabilitation hospital or a nursery home. Sometimes these types of animals are even assigned to children’s homeless centers in order to play with the kids.

Just Didn’t Make The Cut: Finally, we have our flunkies. Now before you consider a flunky to be a negative thing, reconsider that notion because quite the opposite is true. Thousands of dogs are trained every year by organizations which lead them into service jobs.

Not all of these dogs make the cut and move on to work with people. They are considered flunkies for whatever reason, whether it is from temperament problems, health problems, or perhaps were a little too excitable for service work. However, the important aspect to remember here is that these dogs are still a cut above any other pet you may find elsewhere.

Just to get accepted into these types of programs for training preparation means they already had natural first-class qualities and characteristics which made them ideal candidates. These dogs are typically between the ages of one and two years old. Most are very gentle and loving and have had some type of extensive obedience training during the beginning of the program.

The Impact of Foreclosures on Pets

SarahHarris818 — Tue, 04 May 2010 16:42:53 +0000

Guest Post by: Sarah Harris
The economic collapse of the last few years has been devastating to a number of different people. Household expenses have diminished, frivolous purchases are a thing of the past, and just paying the bills has been an uphill battle. For some, the thought of losing their home has become a harsh reality. A reality soon turns into a somber nightmare as they must figure out how they will fend for themselves, their families, and even their pets. While it’s not an oft-mentioned aspect of foreclosures, the rate at which pets are being abandoned due to houses being lost is frightening. These helpless animals are sad casualties of the foreclosure crisis that is sweeping the country and at the moment, shows no signs of slowing down.

These pets, typically cats and dogs, are being dropped off at already crowded shelters, or worse, left in the homes that have been foreclosed. They are left alone with no food, water, or the comfort of a temperature controlled environment. In conditions like these, a dog can easily become dehydrated within 24 hours and can die in extreme conditions. Those thoughtful enough will take their pets to a shelter, and while this is not ideal, with the overcrowding of shelters forcing many of the animals to be euthanized, they at least have the chance of living healthy lives and being adopted into new homes.

It’s unimaginable to most with a conscience how these poor creatures can possibly be left to suffer and die with no care from their owner. Sadly it’s a cruel fate for these pets that have been casualties of the many foreclosures across the country. The owner may argue that while they were desperately thinking of ways to take care of themselves, they just didn’t take into account the responsibility they have for their pets. And due to the helplessness and depression that can be caused by something as life altering as a foreclosure, pet owners who wouldn’t normally do so become indifferent to those around them, including their family pet.

When it comes to defenseless animals which were once warm in their beds and had bellies full of good food, everyone that can help, should. This includes doing something as simple as asking those you know dealing with foreclosures if their pets have another home waiting for them. And most importantly, if you find a pet that has been abandoned due to a foreclosure, to provide it with water and call your local animal shelter for more help. These animals need all the help they can get.

Guest Post by: Sarah Harris of Adiamor Diamond Engagement Rings. Adiamor offers a large selection of engagement ring settings, loose diamonds, and other fine diamond jewelry at affordable prices.

Adopting Older Pets Is a Safer Bet

Anne — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 14:55:28 +0000

Guest post by Sarah Harris
No one can resist a cuddly little kitten or a fuzzy, playful puppy. They turn those big, sad eyes on us and elicit oohs and ahhs from even the most stalwart of cynics. This is the power of newborns. They’re genetically engineered to be cute so we have no choice but to love them instantly. But if you’re in the market for a furry friend, don’t go straight for the mewling babies. There are several good reasons to consider adopting an older animal instead.

For starters, you should think about why you want to adopt a pet in the first place. Maybe you are seeking companionship, or looking to enhance your life. Or maybe you feel very strongly that animals are not meant to live in cages, and you’re on a mission to save them from the loneliness of living in a shelter (plus inevitable euthanasia). Maybe you just think you are capable of providing a loving home for another creature that might otherwise go unnoticed. Or perhaps you had a beloved pet as a child and want to relive that experience or share it with your own children. Likely your reasons for adopting are a combination of these and other factors.

But consider this. Puppies and kittens have no problem getting adopted. They are not going to last very long in a shelter before they get snatched up since most people want an animal they can be the first to name and train (concurrent with the common misconception that pets from previous families might somehow be ruined). If you really want to help an animal in need, it is the older ones that are far less likely to be chosen. And with the recent spike in home foreclosures, more animals than ever are being abandoned or dropped off at shelters. These pets need a loving, stable home!

Furthermore, puppies and kittens are a lot of work. They require attention around the clock, whereas older animals don’t tend to be nearly as needy (or rambunctious). If you leave a puppy home alone all day while you’re at work, you can expect to return to accidents on the carpet and a closet full of chewed shoes. Kittens will just claw the heck out of your furniture. Many older pets are already house trained, box trained, or just plain trained, and as such, they will probably stick to chewing their toys rather than your personal possessions. Also, calmer pets will naturally be a better fit for kids.

And if you’re still not sure a mature animal is the pet for you, simply go to your local animal shelter and take a look. Full-grown pets also have fully formed personalities, so what you see is what you get (unlike a newborn, whose personality will only develop over time). So you’re sure to find a wonderful pet that is compatible with both your personality and your lifestyle. As a bonus, you get to rescue a deserving animal and give them the life they were meant to have, as a member of a family.

Guest post by Sarah Harris, of Zen College Life, the premier directory for online schools. Find out more information about criminal justice degrees

Designer Dogs – Oodles and Poo Dogs

Anne — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:47:46 +0000

Stylishly Snobby or Shelter Adoption?

If your dog’s breed has an “oodle” or a “poo” in it—you are the proud owner of a designer dog. Question is—did you pay a breeder up to $2,500 or visit your local shelter?

In the past ten years, some dog breeders have joined a brilliant marketing campaign and now offer for sale pets that are haughtily referred to as “designer dogs”.

Some of them are just look at the dollar signs such dogs represent while other long time breeders are weary of producing purebreds that have been indiscriminately bred with focus only on appearance and have thus developed more and more potential health problems.

The dogs resulting from this cross breeding often have the best traits of both breeds and are healthier as a result. The public has enthusiastically adopted these stylish pets but animal lovers are vocal in their opposition to what they see as greed-driven opportunism harmful to dogs.

Why the controversy? The claims made by those selling designer pets are familiar to many of us.

1. Healthier dogs

2. Best traits of both breeds

3. Better personality and friendliness traits

4. Reduced instances of hyperactivity and problem behavior of the purebred

Well – YES. That is exactly what dog lovers have been saying for years … about SHELTER PETS. Proponents for adopting unwanted animals rather than purchasing purebreds have missed one valuable marketing strategy—a fancy name for branding!

If you think there is a big difference between shelter dogs and designer dogs check out the quiz at http://www.grumpybumpers.com/dogs/ and see if you can tell the difference. You’ll be surprised at the results.

At a shelter you may see a small friendly curly haired dog and ask “what is it”. The answer “spaniel/poodle mix” is not nearly as exciting as being told:

“It’s a cockapoo” yet the mixes found in shelters are often the same as – and perhaps superior to, the mixed breeds being commercially produced by some breeders.

The poodle is often used in designer cross breeds in an attempt to pass on its non-shedding coat – and often it works. Breeders are discovering what many dog lovers have known for years—a mixed breed dog is often superior to purebreds in habits, personality and in health.

For some strange genetic reason, mixing two breeds often results in the personality of the friendliest breed being passed on as well as the coat of the most attractive breed and the result can be a marvelous pet

There is a serious danger in this cross breeding as breeder must take into consideration the traits of two breeds. Crossing two dog breeds known for having serious eye problems may well exacerbate the problem in the pups produced and cause blindness. Likewise, crossing two large breed dogs where both breeds are prone to hip dysplasia can result in a litter of deformed or unsound puppies. This is the same problem seen in some shelter pets where the temperament is vicious or overly shy and is a result of accidental breeding of dogs with aggressive tendencies or nervous characteristics.

Saying “mixed breed” around a designer dog person is blasphemous. It’s not a mixed breed – it’s a Doodleman Pinscher. Though many will roll their eyes at this, to breeders and owners it makes sense. Unlike shelter mixed breeds, the owner knows exactly what breeds are “in” her pet. The argument could be made that when a shelter adoption looks exactly like the Designer Dog, that’s a pretty good clue as to what the breed of the parents was.

There are Eskapoos and Boxerdoodles, Goldadors and English boodles….and don’t forget the Pomchi and the Whoodles. If you allow your mind to wander, you can create some unique Designer Dogs…

Pointer and Setter – Poinsetter

Terrier and Bulldog -Terribull

Labrador and Rat Terrier – LabRat

Collie and Lhasa Apso – Collapso

The dogs themselves are often adorable and owners have fun comparing names. The poodle is so often used in cross breeding they are listed separately on many “dog for sale” sites. In the smaller dogs, Pomeranians, Pekingese and Cocker Spaniels are often included in the mixture.

What has yet to be explained is what the “breed” is when two designer dogs are crossed. Does that result in a “mixed breed” or a Malti-Pom-Puggle? If you cross a Pekepoo with a Goldendoodle…do you get a GoldenPekedoodlepoo? It can be confusing.

Dogs that are crossbred intentionally are treasured pets. They are often spoiled and pampered unlike their mixed breed shelter cousins. It’s understandable as Designer Dogs sell for up to $2,500 per pup! In high income areas of various cities you will see these unique animals carried, toted in a bag or a shoulder sling or even pushed in a doggy carriage.

Anyone can own a designer dog. Look at the Saint Berdoodles and Beagapoos available from breeders online—and then go to your local animal shelter. You will find dogs that look just the same. Adopt a shelter dog and proudly give it a designer name. No one but you will know the difference. It’s the ultimate in living rich for less – and you get to perform an act of kindness, too.

5 UK Pet & Animal Charities Worth Supporting

Anne — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:00:49 +0000

In the UK, there are numerous charities that support animal welfare and fight abuse of pets. Certainly some are better than others but it can difficult to research and decide amongst the various choices.

To that end we have compiled here a list of the five top pet and animal charities. All are worthy of your support and there are bound to be at least one or two that become the thankful recipient of your donation dollars, volunteerism, or fundraising efforts.

The People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals

The PDSA has been providing care for injured and sick animals owned by people in need for 93 years. The organisation was founded by Maria Dickin in 1917 in order to provide humane veterinary care as well as a cemetery for beloved pets for those too poor to afford it.

The PDSA is funded entirely by donations and volunteer support. Today, the focus has expanded beyond preventive medicine and injury and illness care; pet health and responsible pet ownership initiatives promote a solution to problems before they occur.

The Blue Cross

The Blue Cross provides “a lifeline for animals”. This animal welfare charity provides complimentary veterinary treatment to ensure that all pets are adequately cared for. Its members are active in finding homes for any pets that have been abandoned and they are also available to talk to schools, animal facilities, and veterinary colleges.

The current aim of The Blue Cross is to spread their resources and services further across the UK in order to help additional animals in need.

The British Horse Society

Focusing on the needs and interests of the four million amateur riders and horse-drawn vehicle drivers in the UK, the BHS is involved in a number of worthwhile activities. In addition to providing numerous educational resources, the Society strives to keep horses and their riders healthy and safe and influence legislation that pertains to animal welfare. Facilities that harbour equines are encouraged to maintain exceptionally high standards regarding their care. Abuse and neglect prevention are also large parts of their focus.

The greater the number of members the BHS can recruit, the more influential their campaigning efforts.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

For nearly 150 years, the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has helped pets in all areas of the UK. On an annual basis, the organisation takes in approximately 12,000 cats and dogs, caring for lost or abandoned pets until a new family can be found for them. No animal is turned away from any of the three centres located in London, Berkshire, and Kent.

During a pet’s stay at the centre, they are treated to veterinary care and worked with to encourage good behaviour, making them more easily adoptable. Additionally BDCH does everything possible to reunite lost dogs and cats with their grateful owners.

RSPCA UK

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is the oldest animal welfare charity in the UK. With a focus on emergency rescue, rehabilitation efforts for ill and injured animals, and prevention of cruelty through campaigning and legislature, the RSPCA strives to make “life-changing differences” in the lives of all animals and wildlife. Finding “forever homes” for abandoned or neglected pets is another part of the wonderful work this organisation performs.
The problem of neglect, abuse, abandonment, illness, and injury in animals large and small is rampant across the UK. If you’re looking into donating or volunteering then these five charities are certainly worth supporting.

This is a guest post by Charles Cridland, who writes at the Animal Adoptions Blog, where you can find out more about animal charities and endangered animals.

5 US Pet Charities Worth Supporting

Anne — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:47:59 +0000

Are you looking for a worthwhile way to help a large number of pets? Consider donating to one of these charities located in the United States. These organisations do a lot of great work in promoting education, ethical treatment, and finding homes for animals.

But don’t use your hard-earned money to send aid to just any charity; to help you make a more informed choice check out these five organisations considered among the best in regards to accomplishments and funds distribution.

Alley Cat Rescue

The main focus of award-winning charity Alley Cat Rescue is rescuing and caring for abandoned and unwanted cats. They seek to educate owners about the importance of spaying and neutering by offering low-cost clinics. ACR also provides Trap-Neuter-Return clinics so residents can help feral cats receive immunisations and sterilisation surgery.

Their efforts encompass all levels, with local, national, and even international initiatives to help domestic, stray, and feral animals. Through a local, Maryland-based program, cats are also put up for adoption.

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)

The ASPCA is well known for its efforts to fight animal cruelty, touted as “the first humane organisation in the Western hemisphere”. In just the past year, members of the ASPCA rescued more than 2,000 dogs from puppy mills. They lobby extensively in Washington, D.C. for stricter federal laws concerning the care of animals. Their Law Enforcement Department fields enquiries regarding possible animal cruelty reports.

An online database contains contact information for hundreds of animal shelters with adoptable pets across the U.S. A portion of donations to the organisation are used to provide grant funding for animal welfare agencies.

Animal Legal Defence Fund

The ALDF’s tagline is “winning the case against cruelty”. This organisation is comprised of attorneys throughout the U.S. with a goal of influencing American law in regards to humane treatment of animals. These attorneys provide legal assistance at no charge to any prosecutors spearheading cases of cruelty involving any type of animal, not just pets.

In addition, efforts to educate the public and make them aware of the need for ALDF’s services are promoted through workshops and seminars open to the public.

Best Friends Animal Society

A sanctuary for displaced and rescued pets, a disaster response team, and a variety of country-wide educational programs are just some of the great things the Best Friends Animal Society offers. Built around the motto that kindness to animals makes a better world, this organisation instituted a grassroots efforts back in 1980 to place homeless pets with caring families.

Today, spay and neuter clinics for dogs and cats help eliminate additional unwanted animals from being added to an already burgeoning population along with their other efforts. The Society’s ultimate goal is to ensure that no pets are left to die in shelters, abandoned, or neglected.

Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation

“Hope and renewal” to thoroughbred horses unable to compete in races is the offering of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. Often, horses that were once at the top of their form are neglected, abused, and even killed after their days at the track are over. Horses are expensive to care for and maintain; those owners who cannot afford this expense traditionally had little recourse until the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation was founded in 1982. The organisation maintains expansive facilities throughout the U.S. where retired steeds are provided exceptional care until their natural demise.

No matter what type of animal you are most concerned about, this list of pet charities should provide at least one if not more excellent charities worthy of your donations.

This is a guest post by Charles Cridland, who writes at the Animal Adoptions Blog , where you can find out more about animal charities and endangered animals, including orangutans, polar bears, and black rhinos.

How To Adopt A Shelter Dog

Anne — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:45:52 +0000

Do you think you have what it takes to be a true dog lover? If there was one thing that you can do in this world that would greatly contribute to the canine family, would you be willing to sacrifice a little extra time and patience?

What I am talking about is adopting a dog or puppy from your local animal shelter. There is no better service you or I could make in terms of raising a dog than by providing a positive, loving home to a perfectly good shelter animal.

For some of you, the idea of adopting a shelter dog will instantly cause you to become negative or feel defensive toward these animals. You have too many preconceived notions and assumptions that could be stopping you from saving a dog’s life, one that would make a great house pet if you just had the open mind and a little bit of extra time to train it.

Have I Talked You Into Adoption Yet?

I’m sure it may take a bit more persuasion for some of you to open up your hearts and minds to adopting a shelter dog, but for the rest of you who have decided that you want to visit your local animal shelters to find a dog or puppy who needs a good home, make sure that you approach the staff with a few questions before making your decision.

Ask about what kind of medical treatment the dogs receive. Most organized animal shelters will at least provide the minimum care necessary needed for a dog to go home with you, however, there are some places that unfortunately neglect important medical guidelines.

What To Look For

Any organization that handles animals should have a licensed veterinarian on staff at all times. This veterinarian will provide vaccinations in order to prevent hepatitis, distemper, and other health issues. Ask the staff, or talk with the veterinarian if possible, if these dogs have had their blood checked for heartworms. And is the skin clean of fleas and other parasites?

These are just the basic medical requirements that every person should look for when adopting a dog from an animal shelter. Other needs may be a bit more complex.

For example, do you have your sights set on a dog that has been injured in the past, or is currently healing from an injury? What type of injury is it? What type of medication and treatment has the dog received? Ask about the cost of future treatment and medical needs that will arise.

And Don’t Forget…

Another important set of questions and research that you should talk with your local animal shelter about is whether or not they have a professional who evaluates each dogs’ temperament. Most shelters have this information posted on the front of each cage that is designated to the specific dog, or other animal.

It is important that you take this information and assess whether or not it is detailed enough so that the dog can be trusted with your family set up. The staff should also know how the animal reacts with children and around outside stimulants such as moving cars, other people, etc.

This information is valuable in determining whether or not the shelter dog you are considering will be a good match for your home situation. In addition, ask the staff specific questions regarding a dog’s attitude towards being submissive or dominant. Are they overprotective of territory? How often does aggressive behavior occur and for what reasons? The more questions you ask, the better you will feel when you take your adopted shelter dog home.

Adopting a Shelter Dog – How to Introduce Your Shelter Dog to His New Home

Anne — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 14:41:01 +0000

I ask people all the time, why spend money to buy a dog when you can adopt a needy, loving dog from your local animal shelter and it will cost virtually nothing. Purebred puppies are often plagued with health issues, caused by over breeding – problems that are often completely removed from dogs of mixed breeds.

But if your heart is set on a purebred, this can still be achieved at your local shelter. When I visited mine recently there were two spaniels, two black Labradors, one golden retriever and a Boston terrier that were without question, purebreds. As far as I could see they were all great dogs and were only dumped at the shelter because their owners had no idea how to train them properly – or had little time to devote to them.

Another way to find a great purebred dog in need of a caring home is to search on the breed name + rescue on the Internet. Many breed specific organizations maintain connections with pounds and shelters and move quickly to pick up dogs, then hold them for adoption into permanent homes.

The majority of shelter dogs need little more than a ton of love, attention and some time spent in obedience training to become trusting, affectionate companions. It’s my experience that shelter dogs are inevitably more devoted and loving than dogs that have never experienced abandonment and hardship.

Some pound and shelter dogs may have had to endure assorted unhappy circumstances before arriving there. Possibly they were mistreated, abandoned by their previous owners, or wandered the streets alone for some time. Initially they will be confused and won’t understand why they are being taken to yet another new location – they will have no way of knowing that this time you are taking them to their new forever home.

The method I recommend to teach your rescue dog to settle in and adapt quickly, is to immediately set up a regular schedule and stick to it for several weeks. Set feeding times, exercise, walks and play times will all help your new friend fit in as quickly as possible. Dogs can be especially quick to adapt to the schedules of their owners and many seem to have well defined internal clocks. I had one dog who without fail went to sit next to the door from our garage into the house at five o’clock every day, waiting for me to arrive home.

A perceptive owner may discover that his or her dog wants to set his own schedule. Your dog may prefer to play early in the morning and again in the late afternoon. To indicate this he could start bringing you his toys and trying to gain your attention at those times in the day. Never be inflexible, you should be able to adjust your schedule to whatever best fits your dog.

Should it ever be necessary to discipline your shelter dog, you should always start with the minimum amount of correction, just relying upon your tone of voice to indicate your disapproval. Usually that is all that is needed as a disciplinary tool. Remember that some dogs may have been mishandled, mistreated and even abused. Any sudden or threatening movement on your part will confuse and frighten your dog and he may cringe or growl. Should this happen it will tell you immediately there are some issues to overcome. Kindness and patience will resolve the problems and heal the mental wounds, but It will take time to gain the total, unquestioning trust of the animal.

Beginning the day you arrive home with your adopted pet, handle him and communicate with him frequently. Examine his ears and his paws; inspect the skin underneath his coat closely. Why? What are you looking for? Nothing really. What you are doing is conveying the message to your dog that from now on, you will constantly be touching him and looking at him closely. It’s quite common for a dog to become very anxious with this attention but it is crucial to establish your “right” to do this. In fact, grooming, bathing and trips to your veterinarian will depend upon you and others being able to handle the dog easily.

You should also begin behavior training immediately you arrive home for the first time. Lavish him with treats and dog biscuits, but gently insist that he sits before receiving each reward. Take him for walks – but establish that you are his “leader” by always going through the doorway first. Through your voice and its tone, make sure the dog knows exactly what is expected of him and when he has done wrong. Never rebuke your shelter dog for anything unless you actually catch him in the act. Follow this advice and your dog will understand what is expected of him and he will quickly settle in and learn to trust you as his new owner.

Adopting a shelter dog can be an amazingly rewarding experience. Shelters all around the country are bursting at the seams with dogs that have been cast aside for no better reason than their owner didn’t have time for them any more, or the child they had originally been bought for had moved on to another fad. Many dogs are abandoned at shelters because their owners never made the effort to train them properly. The cute little puppy grew into a boisterous youngster with no manners. Dogs love to please but they were never given the opportunity to learn how to do so. For much more help and information about training dogs of all breeds and ages, please take a look at my recently published, instantly downloadable e-book Dog Training 4 Life.

Give Your Dog a Forever Home

Anne — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:21:52 +0000

Why do you want a dog? If it’s because you saw a cute puppy and thought pet ownership looked like a fun thing to try – do the pet a favor and buy a plant. That adorable small pup will grow and mature. Responsible pet owners know that with proper care, good nutrition and patient training the puppy will grow into a true companion. Tied up as a lawn ornament and ignored, he will have a miserable life. Abandoned by a person who loses interest, he doesn’t know what he did wrong.

Far too often, dogs are purchased or adopted to fill an empty space in the life of a person. They aren’t meant to be temporary accessories to show off to friends or to fill the void left by divorce or job loss. Many shelter dogs were once spoiled pets – for a short time. They were pampered and petted and cared for only until their owner moved on to a new relationship or found a new hobby. This type of owner is less likely to provide structure and behavior training for their animal – and the most likely to drop the pooch at a shelter or, worse, by the side of the road.

Responsible pet owners know that adding this new canine member to their household is a long term commitment. They understand that teaching the house rules is a process that requires patience and understanding. Grooming, feeding, fresh water and playtime are not optional but are daily commitments.

The life span of pets varies with breeds. You may be surprised to learn that the larger breeds have a significantly shorter average lifespan. Awkward and funny when young, the Great Dane will be an oldster at age eight while a small terrier breed may not show any signs of advancing age until many years later. Good nutrition and health care will extend the life of your pet and each stage of their life has something to offer to you as their owner.

The little Fido you brought into your home will play and chew up everything in site, bark at every new experience and be constantly underfoot. The potential is there for him to grow into a friend that will follow you everywhere, fetch balls, do tricks, and even protect you and your property. Responsible pet owners will also treasure the old age of their canine companion as his movements become slower and his main occupation is sleeping at your feet.

Whether purchased or adopted, give your dog a forever home.

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Get Your Furry Fix by Fostering

Anne — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:28:10 +0000

From the brilliant Dr. Pia Salk, who has extensive experience fostering pets: If you can’t adopt a pet but want to get a temporary furry cuddle fix, support the work of your local rescue groups and save lives, then fostering is for you! Fostering is one of the most compassionate and rewarding actions an animal lover can take. The availability of a foster home can make a life-saving difference for a homeless animal. While many people envision rescue groups as having large facilities and a full staff, the reality is more grass roots than that.

Many rescues groups are only able to take in as many needy animals as they have fosters for. Rescue groups work tirelessly to find homes for the animals in their care and to network the ones in municipal shelters, but all too often the time needed to find a home exceeds the time an animal has left. Foster homes provide the critical time needed to connect the dots between an animal in need and an adoptive home.

Foster homes help not only by saving lives, but in other ways too. By getting to know a pet’s personality, a foster helps the rescue group properly place that pet into a suitable home. A brief stint in a safe environment can also help provide the socialization needed to facilitate a smoother transition into a new home.

And let’s not forget the fun part! A foster parent gets to have a furry fix for a stint without the life-long commitment that may not suit their lifestyle.It’s like getting to spoil your niece and nephew when they come to visit!

Anyone interested in exploring foster should contact a few rescue groups in their area (click here to find rescues near you). The rescue can share info on their requirements and schedule a time for a home visit. Ask them to help you establish the kinds of animals you can accommodate and a time commitment that meets your lifestyle. If you’re partial to a certain breed, you can also consider fostering for a breed rescue.

You can also sign up to volunteer on Adopt-a-Pet.com’s volunteer registry, and select “Fostering” as one of your interests.

What a great way to advocate for the animals!

Happy fostering!

Contributed by AdoptaPet.com Blog

The Honest Kitchen to Donate Pet Food to Organizations Housing Animals Displaced by Southern California Wildfires

Anne — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:13:50 +0000

The Honest Kitchen, Inc, makers of all-natural human grade pet products, will donate quantities of pet food to Southern California shelters and animal rescue organizations helping to care for pets who have been displaced by the wildfires currently blazing in the region. The batch of fresh food was made using white potatoes in place of the recipes sweet potatoes so it will not be added to stores shelves. Rather than destroy the food, company representatives decided to make the food available to displaced pets.

The company will pay for all shipping costs associated with transporting the food from its manufacture facility to organizations that can use it.

Any 401c(3) animal rescue organizations in regions affected by the wildfires interested in receiving the food are invited to contact The Honest Kitchen directly via email at info@thehonestkitchen.com with their organization’s complete name, location, proof of charitable status and information on their work. While the company cannot guarantee that a donation can be made to every organization that inquires, every effort will be made to distribute the food to as wide a range of charities as possible.

About The Honest Kitchen
The Honest Kitchen is a holistic, human-grade line of dehydrated, raw pet food, gourmet treats and herbal supplements. Founded by Lucy and Charlie Postins in 2002, The Honest Kitchen provides all-natural pet products that promote nutritional awareness, environmental responsibility, and a sustainable community. All of their products are packaged in artistic, eco-friendly and bio-degradable boxes. For more information, please visit www.TheHonestKitchen.com.

Saving Pets Lives

Anne — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:57:02 +0000

There are overcrowded animals shelters across the country, where animals face the threat of being euthanized. But one non-profit rescue organization is flying pets to new homes. As soon as the plane touched down, it wasn’t hard to see the excitement on the other passengers faces. 23 dogs, cats and even puppies traveled over 500 miles from Atlanta, Georgia, where they were rescued from high-kill shelters.

Ted DuPuis, founder of Cloud Nine Rescue Flights, has been saving the lives of animals for the last four months.

The average flight costs about $2,000 dollars…DuPuis says he’ll always fly the animals to safe shelters, even if he doesn’t have the funding yet.

“I’m not gonna say no to it, if I can at all avoid it. But these flights aren’t paid for so we need to get donations in to help pay for these flights,” says Ted DuPuis.

After landing, these animals were given to local shelters and rescue homes in the area. One of those dogs was a 2 year old Border Collie, Dustin, who was very excited for his first car ride with new friend.

“To me, I’ve got it two-fold because I’m saving a dogs life, and then I train it a little bit, so it’s not just a wild dog out of a kennel to someone’s home, home pet and part of their family,” says Jo Roy from the organization Dogs Deserve Better.

For many of the dogs and cats rescued here today, it gives dogs like Dustin, a second chance. “It’s a desperate situation, you can’t not be involved. Once you see these faces and you know that if you weren’t there they’d be euthanized. It’s a pretty hard cold fact. And you feel like you need to make a difference in these animals lives,” says Julia Ryan, Co-Founder of Animal Rescue Flights.

Cloud Nine rescue flights flew into the Tri-Cities Airport in Endicott. Organizers says donations are key in making the rescues possible. If you’d like to help, log onto www.cloudninerescueflights.org.

Los Angeles WILDFIRES animal shelters and rescues that need help

Anne — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:55:59 +0000

Los Angeles California wildfires continue to burn out of control, threatening homes, people, and animals. “The Station fire” grew to more than 122,000 acres overnight last night, despite signs of improving weather conditions. AdoptAPet has put together this list of animal shelter and rescues that are assisting animals and people affected by the wildfires. If you hear any updates or have additions, please tell them! This list includes: Animal Acres, Baldwin Park shelter, Basset Rescue Network, Gentle Barn, Irvine ACC, Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation, Pasadena Humane Society, Villalobos. Listing alphabetically!

Animal Acres
Acton, CA

http://www.animalacres.org

9/1 12:15am – found a more uptodate site with the evacuations and how to help Animal Acres here: http://kcdisasteraid.wordpress.com/ latest update 8/31 says they are “recruiting/managing standby volunteers for Animal Acres” for a 2nd evacuation, as where they were 1st evacuated to is now in the path of the fire.

Baldwin Park – Los Angeles County Animal Shelter
4275 N. Elton, Baldwin Park, CA 91706
The nonprofit that organizes help for this shelter is Animal Advocates Alliance http://animaladvocatesalliance.org/category/adopt-now/
8/31 11:55pm: “The fires have burned away from Baldwin Park’s service area and as of right now we are actually not that inundated. However a lot of our resources are at the fire and anything and everything could change at any moment. So I guess what we’re really most in need of is adopters to help empty the kennels! Kindest regards, Ric Browde”

Basset Rescue Network
Acton, CA
Main website: http://www.bassetrescuenetwork.org (see Latest News)
Fire updates & donations: http://www.firstgiving.com/ActonFire_BassetRescueNetwork
They have 100 basset hounds and mixes.
2:44 AM, 9/1/09, Kennel Manager updates: “We are safe as of 2:44AM. Here from the property we would evacuate all animals with the assistance of several neighbors as during an evacuation it’s unlikely that non area residents could get through.” The shelter needs money for the expenses that comes with the smoke, ashes, fire and pending evacuation.

Gentle Barn
Santa Clarita, CA
http://gentlebarn.org (for donations)

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/The-Gentle-Barn/54967149038?ref=ts

8/31: they are taking in animals from the fires, as they are currently not in the evacuation area (but close by). “Jay headed out to the fires in Acton with our stock tailor to see if anyone needed help. So far we have four new horses and two new donkeys from the fires. we shall see who Jay brings home next.”

Irvine Animal Care Center
6443 Oak Canyon, Irvine, CA 92618

http://www.cityofirvine.org/cityhall/cs/animalcare/default.asp

8/31: This shelter took in 40+ dogs from the Pasadena Humane Society to make room for fire evacuees. Those dogs need adopters, and they accept online donations too.

Linda Blair Worldheart Foundation
Acton, CA
Fire update page: http://lindablairworldheart.org/?p=749
(FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Acton-CA/The-Linda-Blair-WorldHeart-Foundation/70244399672?ref=ts )
8/31 8:56pm: “Our first and biggest need are donations. We need financial donations to help us with the many costs that can/will arise from this crisis situation. We are also in need of donated crates, at least 42? in size as our doggies are large. We can always use blankets and dog bowls as well…. If you are willing to help load dogs in crates and transport to our evacuation spot and don’t mind getting called in the middle of the night please let us know. You can email worldheartvolunteers@gmail.com for more information.”

Pasadena Humane Society
361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena CA 91105
http://pasadenahumane.org then click on “Donate Now to Fire Disaster Relief!”
8/31 4pm update: they currently have all the supplies and volunteers they need. Monetary donations are still being accepted.

Villalobos Rescue Center
Canyon Country, CA

http://www.vrcpitbull.com

8/31: have heard rumors they were evacuated, but have been unable to confirm – does anyone know?

Wildlife Waystation
14831 Little Tujunga Canyon Rd 91342 (818) 899-5201
9/1 update: http://www.scpr.org/blogs/fire-updates/2009/08/31/wildlife-way-station-receives-abundance-volunteers/

DO YOU NEED HELP getting your animals to safety? Please contact the Kinship Circle Disaster Aid Network. They stand ready to deploy volunteers. You can reach them at 917-596-9040 or http://www.kinshipcircle.org

Need wildlife help? Contact Valley Wildlife Care, a nonprofit, volunteer organization. They will intake ANY wildlife from the fires. http://www.valleywildlifecare.org 818-346-8247

All of the above information was kindly shared with us by AdoptAPet.com. The Post was written by Jennifer

Pilots N Paws

Anne — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:50:28 +0000

Lenny—a small, black Pekingese mix dog—arrived at Murray County Shelter in Chatsworth, Ga., with matted fur and signs of neglect. He had fleas, ticks, and heartworms, and after a few days at the shelter, he was slated to be on the “kill list.” But Lenny was saved from the list when a pilot brought him to a rescue group that nursed him back to health and found him a home in Hamburg, N.Y.

“He is just perfect for our family, and is so sweet and loving,” said Sherry Phillips, who adopted Lenny after a flight coordinated on the Pilots N Paws Web site gave him a second chance.

Animal shelters in “high kill” areas such as Lenny’s home state of Georgia and other parts of the South deal with too many stray animals to house or find homes for them all and euthanize many unclaimed or abandoned pets. Pilots N Paws connects animal shelters and pet rescue groups with volunteer pilots who take animals to facilities in areas where their chances of adoption are high. This September, the site has set a goal of saving 5,000 animals in a week using general aviation.

Pilots N Paws 5000 will take place Sept. 12 through 20 and is designed to raise awareness of the need to transport animals to areas with homes available—and the vital role of GA in accomplishing that goal.

Co-founders Debi Boies and Jon Wehrenberg created Pilots N Paws 18 months ago after Wehrenberg flew a rescued Doberman from Florida to South Carolina so that Boies could adopt it. Boies, who is not a pilot, explained the long and arduous journey of ground transportation, and Wehrenberg asked if there was a need for pilots to take animals to different parts of the country. Now, more than 600 pilots have helped rescue animals with flights coordinated on the Pilots N Paws message board.

“They go above and beyond whatever’s called for—it’s not just flying,” Boies said. She said some pilots have even temporarily fostered dogs or driven the animals when the flight had to be delayed or canceled because of bad weather. “It touches me every time I think about it.”

Boies said areas with ineffective spay and neuter programs and pet ownership responsibility laws have animal overpopulation problems, but other areas have shelters with adoption waiting lists. General aviation can transport pets to areas with adoptive families more quickly than ground transportation, and without exposing the animals to as many strangers. Onerous security requirements and crippling fees threaten this successful way to transport animals, the Pilots N Paws Web site states.

“Let’s face it—if you’re not a pilot and don’t know someone who is, you don’t know what general aviation does for this country,” Boies said.

She said shelters and pet rescue groups have already posted requests for the Pilots N Paws 5000 event, many of which are still looking for pilots to connect the sending and receiving facilities. Journeys of 300 miles or less can usually be done in one flight, while longer distances can be covered in two legs, with pilots coordinating their flights to cover the whole distance. While most of the animals transported are dogs or cats, other passengers have included bunnies, a boa constrictor, and even a potbelly pig.

Pilots can find out more about volunteering for Pilots N Paws and about flights needed in their area on the Pilots N Paws Web site.

By Sarah Brown

Are You Looking To Bring a Canine Friend into Your Home? Visit a Shelter to Adopt a Puppy

Brad Davenport — Sun, 24 May 2009 10:19:52 +0000

by Brad Davenport

IMHO, dogs are perhaps the most entertaining and lovable creatures around. All dogs are cute, loyal, curious and sensitive friends to mankind. Some people decide that they must have a thoroughbred dog, preferably with papers.

Off they go, searching through the classifieds and pet shops for that paragon of a dog. While I like thoroughbreds too, I find that a visit to a pet shelter tugs at my heartstrings. Most often, these dogs aren’t thoroughbreds, but what we commonly refer to as ‘mutts’, a mix of breeds. To my mind, these mutts are the best!

While thoroughbreds are perfect to show off, they can be quite temperamental, aggressive and neurotic which are qualities that you would definitely want to avoid in a family pet. But, if you look in a shelter, you are sure to find a variety of the cutest and most lovable mutts, each with their own adorable personalities from which you could choose one that tugs at your heart.

While the designer puppies are sure to find equally fancy buyer, shelter puppies can be put down if they do find a home. So when you decide to adopt a shelter puppy, you are actually saving its life.

This reminds me of the Disney classic, ‘Lady and the Tramp’. Tramp was the pirate, the adventurer, full of fun, daring and with personality to burn. When Tramp and his friends stole some sausages from the butcher, where did they end up? In the pound. Fortunately, he was broken out and escaped his otherwise inevitable fate. In the end, the family of thoroughbred Lady ‘adopted’ Tramp and they all lived happily ever after. Now how cute were their puppies? When you adopt a puppy from the shelter, you’re giving a big thumbs up to the puppies borne by Lady!

Mutts have a more stable temperament than thoroughbreds and it is much easier to housebreak and train them. Moreover, mutts are the most loyal and lovable of all dogs. Though Tramp was encumbered by some genetic flaws, mutts are free from any of those flaws.

If you are still in dilemma about adopting a shelter puppy, here are some more fact to tilt your scale in favor of a mutt: that picture perfect thoroughbred is definitely going to cost you a fortune. A shelter puppy on the other hand, is going to become the most loved member of you family for a song.

If you are still doubtful about adopting a puppy from the pound, here is something to think about: a thoroughbred can put quite a big dent in your pocket. But in addition to picking up a mutt for a pittance, you will be bringing home a friend who will become a most loved member of your family in no time at all. Whats more, he is so darn irresistible, that if you take the time to step inside a shelter, you will never leave without adopting one.

About the Author:

Looking for useful tips and information on how to take care of a dog or maybe you want some dog training basics. Don’t fret we have it all available for you, pay a visit to our site now. While you are there you can sign up for our free weekly newsletterThe newsletter covers dog training tips and some great general advice for the dog enthusiast.

Senior Golden Retrievers for Adoption

john savage — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 07:36:29 +0000

by John Charles

Those of you who want a Golden Retriever but aren’t ready to go through the trials and tribulations of a puppy, should look into adopting an older Golden. Older Golden Retrievers are mature, and prove to be great in homes where they need to spend a quality amount of time by themselves. They are a very adjustable breed, being good tempered. No matter how old the Golden may be, he will quickly become a valued member of your family in little to no time at all.

Many times, breeders will have older dogs for sale. There are several reasons for this, which include show dogs that have lost their potential, studs that have been used for breeding, female Golden’s that have been bred a few times then retired, or other types of special conditions where a breeder is helping a friend get rid of his Golden Retriever. There are other reasons as well, although whatever they may be – the adult Golden Retriever will be available for anyone who wants him.

Most older Golden Retrievers are already housebroken, and know a lot of behavior patterns and how to adapt to a new and loving family. Although it will be a little hard on your new dog at first, if you give him plenty of love, attention, and patience, he’ll be just fine. You need to keep reassuring your new Golden on a regular basis, and let him know that you are his new owner and that you love him and you are glad he’s a member of your family.

Before actually making that decision to adopt a Golden,do give the matter some careful thought. Meet the dog first, and find out as much as you can about him or her. Find out their eating habits, and whether or not they get on with children, and old people, and do they enjoy going for walks in the country or in the town and so on. Ask if you can take them out for a walk, and make sure that you introduce him to the other members of your family, so that they too are happy about the decision.

If you had a guest staying with you in your home you would of course take some time to show them where everything is, where the bedroom is and the bathroom and so on, and it is just them same when you introduce an older dog into your family. Allow some time in your busy schedule to ease them in to your home and routine, and this will pay dividends in the long run.

People often ask me how long it will be before your new Golden is comfortably settled in to your family routine, and I would like to suggest that it takes about a month, give or take a week or so. After this do consider taking them to a dog obedience training class somewhere because you will find that this pays handsome dividends. Yes, they will probably have been trained already before they came to you, but this will act as a sort of ‘top up’ training.

All Golden Retrievers, regardless of their age, love attention. Older Golden’s on the other hand, may have medical problems that you aren’t aware of. You shouldn’t let this stop you from getting one though, simply because the rewards that you’ll find are far greater than any cons that may come to mind. Although many people don’t give a lot of thought to getting an older Golden Retriever – they are perfect for families who don’t want to put up the time and troubles of raising a puppy.

About the Author:

Before you buy any other dog training aids make sure you visit John Charles excellent dog training website

Why Your Next German Shepherd Should Be From German Shepherd Rescues

Jan Ryan — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 07:46:45 +0000

by Jan Ryan

German Shepherds are not only beautiful, but they are also intelligent, loyal and easy to find in many countries of the world. Unfortunately, they are not the right breed of dog for everyone. Each year, thousands of German Shepherds (also known as Alsatians) and German Shepherd mixes are abandoned or surrendered to animal shelters. Most of these dogs wind up there through no fault of their own. Many people are not aware of the significant time and money investment needed to care for German Shepherds.

German Shepherds, although incredibly popular, also are abandoned in incredible numbers. Most people are not aware of the needs this intelligent, active (and shedding) breed has before they bring one home. They might want a German Shepherd just because of the looks, or to have as a status symbol. Unlike their owners, volunteers at German Shepherd rescues across the nation get to know the dogs in their care.

Good German Shelter rescues will work very closely with each dog in their care and take time to get to know the dog’s preferences and quirks. Good German Shepherd rescues will never let you adopt a dog right away. You will have to fill out a lot of paperwork, often give them a letter on your character written by your vet, and answer a lot of questions about your (possibly lack of) German Shepherd information. Be very suspicious of any organization that calls themselves a German Shepherd rescue and that ships dogs to you without asking you any questions. The dogs for sale might be stolen or very sick dogs.

There is no parent German Shepherd breed organization or even a national directory. The American Kennel Club and the Humane Society of the United States are really too busy to help you out. In order to find a good German Shepherd rescue in your local area, you will have to sniff them out yourself. You can also expect to fill out a lot of forms, meet with many different dogs and maybe even get a character reference from a veterinarian before your application for adoption is accepted.

Always contact the German Shepherd rescue before you visit. Don’t drop in unexpected and expect to drive off with a dog. The best German Shepherd rescues will have you fill out a questionnaire and quiz you about your knowledge of German Shepherd information.

They will usually give your home and your personal references a check, too. They want to be absolutely sure the dog will find what every dog deserves ? a forever home.

They usually have websites, though. Petfinder.com is quickly becoming the most comprehensive resource on the web for matching homeless animals with those people looking to adopt. First, you will talk on the phone or via e-mail, and then you will fill out a lot of paperwork.

While the adoption process crawls on, be sure to read up on all the German Shepherd information you can find to insure you know what to expect from your new furry friend.

About the Author:

Jan Ryan is a passionate lover of the German Shepherd and has a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved German Shepherd. Among other topics there, you will find out more about German Shepherd Rescue plus a whole lot more.

Information On Finding A Pug Rescue

Jenny Donaldson — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 07:50:14 +0000

by Jenny Donaldson

Sometimes just a little time out of your day can make all the difference in the world to a pet that has been abandoned or abused. If you know of a Pug in an abusive situation like that then you need to do the humane thing and contact a local Pug rescue organization to come get the animal the help it needs.

Any local vet is a great resource for animal rescue contact information and if you know a vet, or have a vet for your own pets, then contact them to find the information you need to find a Pug rescue. If you do not know a vet, or do not use the services of a vet, then you can just grab a phone book and give one a call. Any vet would be glad to get you the information you need if they have it available.

The first place you can start to find Pug rescue information is a vet. If you have pets then contact your vet and see if they know of any Pug rescue organizations in your area that you can contact. If you do not have a vet then any vet out of the phone book will be able to assist you. If they have the information they will be glad to pass it on to you.

Your local newspaper has been a collection area for important local contact information for many years and they may be able to help you find the local Pug rescue groups in your area. In some cases the local paper even publishes this contact information on a semi-regular basis but even if they do not make the information public that does not mean they do not have it. Call your local newspaper and ask them about Pug rescue contact information.

It never hurts to ask and if they do have the information for you then you wound up looking in the right place for this very important information that can make all the difference in the world to an abused or abandoned pet.

Most people look at the Internet as a way to find only national or international companies but this is certainly not the case. There may be a Pug rescue group local to you that hosts a website and you can find all of their contact information that way.

You can contact the national groups and see if they have any local offices close to you that you can contact for assistance. If you put some thought into it web searches can be a very invaluable resource.

Never let an abused or abandoned pet go without getting it help. Pets deserve to be treated humanely and allowing a pet to suffer is not the humane thing to do. If you know a pet in need of assistance then use the resources available to you to contact the proper animal rescue group and get that pet the help it needs.

About the Author:

About the author: Jenny Donaldson is an avid lover of the Pug and has a popular website that can teach you how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Pug. Among other topics there, you can also learn all about Pug Rescue Information plus a whole lot more.