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Choosing a Pet |
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The Darker Side of "Rescue" |
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In past columns, I've recommended that people who are looking for a purebred dog call rescue groups. These rescue agencies are organizations or individuals who provide temporary care and placement for animals abandoned or relinquished by their owners. People from these groups often take dogs from shelters and put them into foster care until a new home can be found. So by adopting a dog through rescue, you can save a life and do your part to help reduce the number of unwanted animals. Many rescue agencies work with just one particular breed because of their love of the breed and can be a great source of information about the breed.
However, although rescues may sound like a great option if you're looking for a breed of dog, you should know that not all "rescues" are legitimate. The darker side of rescue is that not all groups who claim to be "rescuing" animals out of shelters really are. Many so-called rescue groups are just fronts for puppy mills, backyard breeders, or worse. Instead of paying big money for purebred dogs, these "rescues" just pluck them out of shelters for $30 or $40. So instead of saving animals, they are contributing to pet overpopulation by breeding even more animals to make a quick buck. Many shelters won't deal with rescues at all for this reason.
If you are thinking of getting a dog through rescue, ask a LOT of questions of the rescue group. If any animals on their premises aren't spayed or neutered, ask why. Look around the facility. If it looks (or smells) like a puppy mill, it probably is. Dogs that have been kept in inhumane conditions can be emotionally scarred for life. Be very suspicious and if you get a bad feeling from the person or their facility, find a different rescue.
Doing the research is worth it. Legitimate rescues often have expert-level knowledge of a breed and can provide the veterinary care, training, socialization, screening, and information necessary to make successful placements.
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Like the articles on Pet-Tails.com? Check out our pet books!
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Funds to the Rescue:
101 Fundraising Ideas for Humane and Animal Rescue Groups
Funds to the Rescue is written specifically for people working to raise money for animal-related causes. This book saves you from wasting time as you search for new revenue streams to support your humane organization.
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Happy Hound:
Develop a Great Relationship with Your Adopted Dog or Puppy
Happy Hound is a book that tells you what you need to know to raise a wonderful family pet you can live with for years. Unlike breed-specific or veterinary books, Happy Hound is tailored to the special needs and issues related to living with a rescued puppy or dog.
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Happy Tabby:
Develop a Great Relationship with Your Adopted Cat or Kitten
Happy Tabby is a book that tells you what you need to know to live with and enjoy your new adopted feline. Unlike breed-specific or veterinary books, Happy Tabby is tailored to the special needs and issues related to living with a rescued cat or kitten.
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