We all know how having a pet can change your life completely! However, unfortunately, each year the number of dogs in shelters is rising and some of them are being euthanized because there are too many animals and not enough people willing to adopt. People buy a dog for themselves or the kids thinking about how cute they are, but they sometimes don’t realize what a great responsibility they can be. Suddenly it’s hard to manage your time to walk and feed the dog, to play with them, and spend time together. Therefore, people sometimes give the dogs up and as a result, there are so many pets without a home and proper care.
Luckily, there are still many generous people who would rather adopt a dog than giving crazy amounts of money on a dog with a pedigree. If you are one of them and if you feel inspired to help a puppy find a new family – you are doing the right thing!
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU FIND A LOST OR ABANDONED DOG?
The first thing you need to do is to be absolutely sure no one is looking for this dog. Make a few attempts to find the owner. You can try:
- Placing a newspaper ad
- Making a poster
- Notify the local police department
- Announce it on the radio
- Notify local humane organizations
- Write a post on social media (e.g. Facebook, Instagram) with a picture of the dog
- In most states, a lost pet is considered adoptable after seven days.
WHAT IF YOU ARE TRYING TO FIND A NEW HOME FOR YOUR OWN PET?
Giving up your pet may be the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do. It’s not always the result of irresponsibility. It usually has to do with allergies, the birth of a child, moving house, divorce, or a lifestyle change. In these situations, people often give their pet to a shelter because they feel it is the quickest and the least painful way. But be sure to do your research about the shelter. You can find many “no-kill” shelters that only put to sleep dogs that are aggressive or unadoptable. Remember that your pet may suffer from confusion and loneliness in a new environment.
The best thing you can do for your pet is to personally make your best to find a home for them.
Take your time to read these great ideas and tips on how to find a new, loving home for your dog! You will realize that it’s the most responsible thing to do. That way you will also give your dog the time to adjust. On the other hand, you will help the shelters that lack space and resources. This also applies to a dog you have rescued and you don’t want to or can’t take care of it.
ADVERTISE THROUGH SOCIAL NETWORKS
Post the dog’s photo on your Facebook page or on your Instagram page with propper hashtags. Post it to your Story and ask your friends to share on their social networks. Write some appropriate lines below the photo.
ASK YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS TO HELP
Sometimes your personal contacts are the best source of information. Spread the word and surely one of your acquaintances will know about somebody who is looking to adopt!
ADVERTISE THROUGH VETERINARIANS
Ask your veterinarian to place a poster of the dog that needs a new home. You can also place posters or photos with an appropriate description at work, school, church, around the neighborhood, etc.
MAKE THE DOG MORE PRESENTABLE
The potential adopters will sometimes be more willing to adopt if the dog is:
- Vaccinated
- Checked by veterinarian
- Spayed
- Well-groomed
GET HELP FROM RESCUE GROUPS AND SHELTERS
Some rescue groups and shelters may be willing to post the pet’s picture on their website. Find out if there are other programs to help you.
BE HONEST WITH POTENTIAL ADOPTERS
Please be transparent about the dog’s character, likes, and dislikes, medical or behavior issues. The new owners deserve to be aware and to make a good decision for themselves and their families.
It’s also important how you feel about the potential adopters. If you don’t feel they are nice and animal-loving people maybe you should reconsider?!
WHAT IF YOU ARE THE ONE ADOPTING?
Before bringing a new pet home make sure your house and garden are ready. A bed for a dog or a dog-crate is a must-have! Make sure you have food and water bowls and check how your rescue dog has been fed. If you have other pets be sure to introduce them on neutral territory. Focus on routines and rules and be consistent! The relationship will naturally follow.
There is a saying “A dog is for life’ not just for Christmas!” Dogs come to rescue centers and shelters for all kinds of reasons. They can often be described as “problematic” or “too difficult” but it’s not their fault. It is the job of owners to be positive, kind, and to take care of their dogs with love. So, if you are considering getting a pet- why not adopt a rescue dog? You will save a life and bring a new member to your family.
