Dog adoption sources

Dogs are available through a variety of different sources. There are animal shelters, professional breeders of purebreds, rescue organizations, pet stores, and people who have just have the occasional litter. Your local Veterinarian may also know of clients who need to place their dog.

Animal Shelters

Animal Shelters are a wonderful way to adopt a healthy adult dog and help curb the overpopulation problem. There are many breeds to choose from and it's an economical way to adopt an animal that may already be neutered, vaccinated and housebroken. It is hard to know what these animals were exposed to before ending up in the shelter, so in addition to a physical exam with your Veterinarian, consider an evaluation with an Animal Behaviorist.

Breeders

A professional breeder may require you to fill out an application, supply references and schedule a home visit. A responsible breeder will have had the Sire and Dam up to date on vaccinations prior to breeding. Also, they will have their dogs eyes, hips, elbows, heart or any other genetic defect known to the breed tested for and certified whenever possible.

Always ask to meet the Sire and Dam, spend time with the litter or adult, and visit more than once before making your decision. Although expensive, choosing to adopt from a breeder gives you the most information about your new pet and usually the puppy will have had the first Veterinary exam and vaccination. It is always a good idea to have your Veterinarian examine the dog at your earliest convenience.

Rescues

If you are looking for an adult pure bred dog, rescue may be a good choice for you. Rescue organizations take in dogs that need to be placed and care for them until they can match them up with a new owner. They are often being fostered in homes therefore minimizing any time spent in shelters. There is almost always a fee associated with this type of adoption. The fee helps the Rescue group defer the costs of transporting and addressing any medical needs. These dogs are neutered and up to date on vaccinations before they are up for adoption.

Pet Stores

Pet stores offer convenience and often a variety of dogs to choose from. It may be hard to obtain information on the origin of the animal and environment it came from making it impossible to predict any underlying health issues. The store should have some sort of short-term guarantee with the sale of a puppy but always have your Veterinarian check the animal over as soon as possible. The cost of puppies will range depending on the breed and the age. Beware of the new `Designer Dogs`. They may be all the rage but they also may be overpriced mixed breed animals. With these dogs you have no way of knowing what to expect in terms of health.

Adopting From the Newspaper or a Neighbor

You may also find ads in your local paper or know of neighbors who have a litter. If the owner is unaware who the Sire is, it will be difficult to tell what the dog will look like or how big it will be. Your decision should be based on how the Dam looked and acted and what sort of environment the pups were in. Your Veterinarian will be able to supply you with a best guess on breed mix and any health issues to watch for in the future. The owner may ask for a small fee to cover food and possibly a Vet visit. Adopting one of these puppies is a great way to give an unplanned for animal a home and keep it from possibly ending up at the shelter.