Dog Rehoming - Some Things To Think About

Hi we are the Roberts family in the UK. Although I am now into all things internet what we tend to write about is subjects that have involved us or are in our heart somehow. And this subject is no different at all. On a recent visit with a friend we discovered just how wrong this process can go of
Dog Rehoming when certain rules are not adhered to. We hope you find this useful.

Dog Rehoming

Every year many thousands of dogs are given up, abandoned or taken to shelters. The reasons behind this vary, but it's usually because their owners cannot look after them, they have chosen the wrong dog for their lifestyle or because the dog's behaviour is unruly or very difficult or because their owners have died.

This dog rehoming lense will address the issues that you need to consider, whether you are looking to get a dog from a rescue centre or re-homing facility.

It is worth taking the time to get this things in order as if you give a home to the wrong dog for you then it's upsetting for both parties concerned.

Benefits of Adopting a Dog

Although many people consider that dogs that need to be re-homed must have something wrong with them, such as a health or behavioural issue, this is very often not the case.

A lot of people decide they cannot cope with their pet dog whether because of a change in housing, a new baby, because of a relationship break up, or because the owner suffers ill health, goes into hospital or dies. A lot of dogs come from very loving homes, and are well trained, gentle animals that are just in need of a new home. Often their previous owners haven't mistreated them, and don't want to have to part with them - but circumstances make it impossible for them to keep their faithful friend.

Older pets can be more tolerant than younger animals, and don't require the constant attention that a young dog or puppy needs. Although getting a dog from a centre or re-homing facility can cost less than buying a dog elsewhere, don't expect that it is entirely free. Kenneling, veterinary checks, food, and staffing costs for the rescue centre are all costly and you will be 5 expected to pay a contribution that is usually between £70 and £120. This may be more if you are adopting a dog from a pedigree breeder.

First Time Dog Owners - Things To Consider

You have made the decision to become a dog owner for the first time. Having a pet as a dog is highly rewarding, great fun and your new pet will be a fantastic addition to your household. However, before you go and choose your first pet it is vital that you understand that there are certain responsibilities that you assume when you become a dog owner. Some of these are legal requirements.

Depending on the age of your dog when you first welcome him into your home, he may live for fifteen years, which is a lot of years of responsibility!

The Cost of Dog Ownership

So what sort of things must you consider before you choose your dog? It goes without saying that having a dog means extra cost. Is this something you can afford? Depending on the breed, size and age of your dog, he may eat a considerable amount of food - have you worked out how much this is likely to cost you?

Similarly, your dog will require regular visits to the vet - once per year for an adult dog, and more if your dog is still a puppy.
It is always worth considering getting insurance in the event that your dog needs expensive veterinary treatment

The Time You Will Need To Devote To Your Dog?

If you haven't owned a dog before, a good guide is to allow at least one hour each day for the care of your dog. He will need walking three times per day, for at least ten to fifteen minutes each time. He will also need to be fed twice a day, but not excessively.

Matching Rescue Dogs With Owners

When you attend a reputable re-homing centre you will be required to fill out a questionnaire about you and your life, which will help the centre to match you with your ideal dog. These questionnaires are likely to ask for information about whether you:

Have owned a dog before

Have children, how many and how old they are

Have any other pets in your household,

Live in a flat, house, or other type of property

Have access to good areas in which you can walk your dog, such as a
nearby park or fields

Are out of the house for long periods of time and if so, whether you
have arrangements in place to ensure that the dog is not alone.

The First few days With Your Rehomed dog

There are a number of things you can do to make the first few days with your rehomed dog as stress free as possible. He may mourn the loss of his old family. He doesn't understand why he's been taken away from them: all he knows is that he's in a strange place, with people he doesn't know.

Everything will new and exciting to him, but scary as well. Most dogs will settle in and adjust to their new homes within a few days, but
don't blame yourself or get despondent if your dog takes a bit longer. While your dog is adjusting to his new surroundings, don't make him do anything stressful. This includes meeting a large number of people, having a bath or going to obedience training et cetera. Not only will this give your dog a better chance of settling in more quickly, it also gives him a chance to bond with you, his new owners.

Because of the upheaval, some dogs temporarily forget their training and they may have an accident. This is in fact quite common, but don't be too disappointed and certainly don't scold the dog for this.

Caring For Your Rehomed Dog

Veterinary Care

Although your adopted dog will have had his injections and boosters, it is vital that you keep these up to date. Register your dog with a local vet and make sure they send you reminders for your pet's annual check up and booster injections. Keep your inoculations card in a safe place so that you have a record of his booster history -this may be important if you are applying for a pet passport.

Dog Nutrition

Like humans, a dog is likely to enjoy greater health, stamina and vitality if he is given better quality food.

Dog Fitness

Your dog will love to exercise and go out on walks and it is up to you to dedicate enough time to him to ensure his fitness levels stay high.

Going on holiday

You don't need to give up having holidays abroad once you have a pet dog. However, you do need to make sufficient provision for your dog while you are away.

In short
Dog Rehoming is fantastic in so many ways for the pet and the new owners but as stated above it needs some attention to details to ensure a good match and a happy home.