 Barked: Tue Oct 24, '06 1:53pm PST |
 | |  | | Top Ten Misconceptions about Shelter and Rescue Dogs!
1. They have issues.
While sometimes this may be true, the majority of shelter/rescue dogs have previous owners with issues: not enough time, not enough money, they are moving, they got a divorce, they had a baby. These owner issues in no way reflect on the dog. Even if a dog’s history is not known they often don’t have any serious behavioral issues. And every dog has their quirks, even purebred champions!
2. They don’t know how to behave.
True, some shelter and rescue dogs don’t know some neat tricks like sit, down, and stay but it’s because no one’s taken the time to teach them! Most of these “behavioral problems” can be fixed with a simple 6-8 week obedience course.
3. They are sick.
Not true! Many dogs, even owner surrenders, don’t come with the proper vaccinations; however most shelters and rescues get an animal fully up to date on vaccinations, and will not adopt out sick animals until they are well. Also serious diseases are tested for before the animals are adopted out.
4. Shelters only have big dogs.
While smaller dogs tend to get adopted sooner than larger dogs there are always smaller dogs coming in. If you are interested in adopting a smaller dog speak with your shelter or rescue and fill out an application so that when a small dog comes in they can contact you first. Also look for breed rescues that specialize in certain breeds.
5. They are all mutts, or there are no purebreds in shelters.
While there are often several mixed breed available many owner surrenders end up being “purebred” dogs. While these dogs may not have papers attached to them they are often a purebred dog. Statistics vary but at least 30% of dogs in shelters are purebreds, and every type of breed there is can be found in a shelter or rescue somewhere.
6. They are all older dogs.
Hardly. Once again puppies tend to be adopted quickly but puppies come in all the time. Follow the same advice as for small dogs. Also many dogs tend to be relinquished when they reach their “teenage” years and are no longer a cute puppy. Most of these dogs are 1-2 years old and still have a lot of life yet to live. Even if there are a lot of senior dogs, these dogs need good homes too and can be a great addition to the family.
7. They were all abused.
While sad cases may come in from time to time most dogs at the shelter have not been abused. Some are just shy from being in a stressful environment. If anything these dogs were neglected but not abused.
8. Only puppies from unwanted/accidental litters end up at shelters.
Puppies from "planned" breeding can and do end up at shelters, it's not just accidental litters.
10. Shelter dogs can't be/aren’t potty trained.
Often shelter dogs cannot be let out often enough and are forced to go to the bathroom in their kennels. For some dogs (young, old, small) asking it to go more than 8-10 between bathroom breaks is just too long. These dogs can still learn the rules of housetraining once adopted. Same rules apply to housebreaking shelter dogs as to a puppy from a breeder.
Bonus
Shelters are scary, dirty, sad places.
Yes, there are bad shelters where conditions are less than desirable. However, many, many shelters are clean, bright, and generally happy places. These shelters are also full of people willing to help you find the right dog for you!
I started this list awhile ago and figured this would be a good place for it! Thanks to a few pups (Jasmine among others) who helped me finish it! |  |  | |  |
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