If you know anything at all about the current
pet overpopulation crisis in the country, then you are already
planning to adopt a homeless animal rather than buy from a pet
store or a breeder. You already know that incredible pets can
often be found at animal shelters and breed specific rescue
centers. By doing your homework and learning all you can about
different dog breeds, you have enough German Shepherd information
to know if a German Shepherd is right for you and your family.
German Shepherds, although incredibly popular,
also are abandoned in incredible numbers. Most people are not
aware of the needs this intelligent, active (and shedding) breed
has before they bring one home. They might want a Shepherd just
because of the looks, or to have as a status symbol. Unlike their
owners, volunteers at German Shepherd rescues across the nation
get to know the dogs in their care.
Good dog Shelter rescues will work very
closely with each dog in their care and take time to get to know
the dog's preferences and quirks. Good German Shepherd rescues
will never let you adopt a dog right away. You will have to fill
out a lot of paperwork, often give them a letter on your character
written by your vet, and answer a lot of questions about your
(possibly lack of) dog information. Be very suspicious of any
organization that calls themselves a German Shepherd rescue and
that ships dogs to you without asking you any questions. The dogs
for sale might be stolen or very sick dogs.
Good German Shepherd rescues will not let
you walk away with a dog for free, either. This is to discourage
those lowlifes who sell dogs to laboratories and sell bait dogs to
dog fighting rings. Expect to pay up to $400 (US) in order to
adopt your dog. This fee is incredibly low in comparison to buying
a puppy from a breeder.
Always contact the rescue centre before you
visit. Don't drop in unexpected and expect to drive off with a
dog. The best German Shepherd rescues will have you fill out a
questionnaire and quiz you about your knowledge of breed
information. They will usually give your home and your personal
references a check, too. They want to be absolutely sure the dog
will find what every dog deserves - a forever home.
Don't just agree to take a dog right away
over the phone or email. That should never happen. You need to
meet the potential dog a couple of times before you are allowed to
adopt the dog. When you visit the dog, you are also visiting what
kind of place the German Shepherd rescue is. Is it overcrowded?
How are the dogs behaved? How does the place smell? If the place
passes the nose and eye test, then chances are good your adoptee
will be a calm, friendly dog.
