Choosing a Rescue Dog

It can be very difficult for a dog lover to choose a rescue dog - just because each and every dog that he sees at the shelter, especially the most needy ones, will be calling out for him to take them home! But you must be practical.

Rather like visiting an auction and deciding in advance how much you will be bidding - and refusing to bid over that amount - it is imperative that you decide what sort of dog you are looking for when you visit the rescue centre. It is no good taking home a lively puppy, just because he broke your heart, when you had made up your mind to take on an adult dog!

Spend some time thinking about how a dog will fit into your home and family. Think about size, age, feeding costs, exercise requirements, grooming and so on. Make sure you tell the rescue centre what you are looking for, and remember to take their advice!

Look out for:

Aggression - even the slightest sign of agression should be a warning

Submission (in an adult dog) - lying on his back, bowing his head, perhaps urinating slightly

Attitude to other dogs - ask if you can observe him with other dogs and watch out for aggressive or submissive behavior.

Try to spend time with the dog, perhaps taking him for a walk, before you make up your mind (this may or may not be allowed by the rescue centre).

Adopting a dog from an animal shelter