Secrets of the Adoptions Master
Everything you need to
know about how to get
animals out of shelters
and into great homes.

Big Dogs, Shy Cats:
How to find homes for
"Hard to Place" pets.

Adoption Option Brochure
for shelters
This brochure for prospective
adopters talks about why you
should adopt, where you can
adopt, and what else you need
to know.

More Pet Adoption Resources
for shelters
Brochures and resources to help
your shelter find homes for
homeless pets.

Dog Breed Rescue & Adoption

The Right Breed for You

Always check out the breed you're interested in. Breed dogs at Best Friends and at shelters and rescue groups are usually quite young. Why? The people who first bought them quickly realized they'd made a mistake and couldn't handle the breed's characteristics. Don't make the same mistake!

Rod Carr of Auburn, California, did his research before adopting Emma, a four-year-old pitbull, from Best Friends (both pictured).

Two years later, he came back to the sanctuary - not to return her, but to show her off!

"Emma has been a busy girl since I adopted her," he explained proudly. "She and I were an immediate fit. I'm a helicopter pilot with the Bureau of Land Management, and she loves to come along too, and sit in the back seat. She just so wants to please me - she's my loyal companion!"

Emma is a lucky girl. Here are some of the characteristics of breeds we commonly see at the sanctuary

Border Collies and Heelers

Bred to herd cattle and sheep, they have a lot of energy. They like to "run the show" and take charge. They need active homes and active lifestyles, including lots of play time and walks. These dogs often lose their homes when their herding instincts lead them to chase bicycles, kids on roller skates, or young children.

Jack Russell Terriers

Highly intelligent and athletic, these dogs have high prey drives, like to dig, are naturally curious, and very independent.

Dalmatians

Bred to guard carriages (and later fire trucks), Dalmatians have high energy, and are protective and dominant.

The cute polka-dotted coats sometimes attract people who don't understand what they're getting.

Labradors, Spaniels & Other Birding Dogs

Often become obsessed with what they are doing, like fetching balls and toys and must do so at all costs!

Small Breeds

Small-breed dogs are often abandoned to shelters after biting children. That's because the movements of small children can be unpredictable and scary to them. What's worse, miniature Pinschers and Pomeranians have thin legs which can break if they land wrong after jumping off a couch - or being dropped.

Bottom Line: If you're looking for a breed or even a mix of breeds, do some research first. Learn what's involved in having a dog - such as basic dog care, medical needs, training, and behavior.

In particular, ask yourself the following:

• Do I have the time to give them the love and attention they deserve?

• Can I offer them daily exercise and interaction with people and other dog friends?

• Can I afford the costs (food, routine vet care, and possible additional medical costs)?

• Are my emotional expectations realistic? (A dog is a dog, not a furry little person.)

• Will they be living in the house as a valued family member? (Dogs are pack animals and don't do well living alone.)

• With the right fit, your chances of a happy ending are much better, and we are all one step closer to a world there there are No More Homeless Pets!

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