Adopting a dog isn’t always as easy as one might think.
It’s important to do a little homework before heading out the door to the local animal shelter, dog rescue group or breeder because the organizations may have regulations and requirements that may not meet with your expectations. If the group requires you to sign a contract, don’t just scribble your name on the dotted line. Read it from beginning to end. If you don’t, you could end up having your dog taken from you.
Let me give you an example. A couple was looking to adopt a sharpei from a local rescue group. They instantly fell in love with a dog, Scarlet, whose wrinkled face just begged for a good home. The puppy wasted no time warming up to the couple.
The interview process went well. They were down to signing the contract when they noticed a clause that says the dog must always be kept on a lead when outdoors. They questioned the clause and explained that they lived on a farm with lots of room for the dog to romp and play. They had never tied a dog outside and didn’t plan to start now.
They explained that they always supervised their dogs and the last thing they would want to see is their dog getting hit by a car because he or she wandered onto the road. The couple was told that there would be no bending of the rules and to expect random visits from the rescue group. If the dog was found outdoors while unsecured, they would take her back to their shelter with no questions asked and they would not be able to get her back because they did not adhere to the terms of the contract. That clinched things for the couple. They left without the dog because they knew we could not live up to the contract.
Animal shelters, rescue groups and breeders have adoption policies in place. Some are lax; others are very tough. That is why it is important to gather information before the adoption process begins.
One very common contract clause is that you must agree to provide your adopted dog with all of its vaccinations.
The contract may include a statement that says you cannot give the dog to anyone else without approval from the animal shelter or rescue group.
A breeder may require that you do not breed your dog to another dog that does not meet American Kennel Club standards.
Some breeders require that you return the dog to them if you decide you no longer want the pet. Others may stipulate that they want nothing to do with the dog after you take it away from their kennel. This in itself can tell you something about the breeder. Reputable breeders tend to include provisions that protect the dog.
Some animal shelters require that you bring the whole family, including other dogs, to the shelter for the interview process before they will allow you to adopt.
The unfortunate thing is that many of the rules were made in response to the practices of irresponsible dog owners. The rules are there to protect the dogs, but they can be a source of frustration to those of us looking to adopt. If you don’t feel you can abide by the rules, look elsewhere for a dog to adopt. Don’t think you can shortcut the regulations. Trying to could cause you a lot of heartbreak and it would not be fair to the dog.
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