Dog Rescue: Is it Right for You?

Written by Blake Kritzberg


Ever had a hankering for a certain breed of dog? Not an obsession, mind you notrepparttar sort of longing that would send you rushing to a breeder, thousand-dollar-bill in your sweaty palm but just a gentle appreciation forrepparttar 125814 virtues ofrepparttar 125815 Poodle, Pug or Pyrenean Mastiff?

Let's say you have -- but you thought buying a purebred pup was a less-than-ideal use of your family's resources. If that'srepparttar 125816 case, it might be time to look up your local Dog Rescue organization! Dog Rescues are organized by breed, so prospective parents can sign up to be notified when new poodles or pugs come in.

What'srepparttar 125817 advantage of adopting a rescue dog, instead of a breeder pup? A rescue dog isn't always cheaper thanrepparttar 125818 breeder's (though it usually is). The main difference is this: your money equals a new life for a dog that completely lost out on his first roll ofrepparttar 125819 dice.

*How do I adopt a Rescue Dog?

Dog rescue organizations are volunteer-driven, and loosely organized. Your best bet is to 'Google' forrepparttar 125820 one nearest you, usingrepparttar 125821 breed name. So poodle lovers can search for 'Poodle Rescue' or 'Poodle Rescue Florida,' if they live down south.

Once you find an organization, you'll want to apply as an adoptive parent. This may involve a down payment. It also usually involves a form in which you describe your history of animal ownership, and supply references. You'll provide some information on your beliefs about dog discipline, your house and yard, and where you plan to keep your newest family member.

The dog rescue foster moms and will want to talk to you in person, too, to get a feel for your compatibility with their particular pup.

*What will I pay for a Rescue Dog?

On average, you'll pay between $200 and $300. If you thought "rescue" adoption was cheap, this might seem like a lot, butrepparttar 125822 fact is it simply covers basic procedures to bringrepparttar 125823 animal back to health. Most dogs arrive atrepparttar 125824 Rescue with skin problems, tartar-coated teeth, out-of-date vaccinations, possible parasites and other issues.

*How will a Rescue Dog differ from a breeder or pet store dog?

In a number of ways. Your new adoptee is likely to be:

Older. Few dogs are rescued as puppies. A few are 'adolescent.' The vast majority are middle-aged.

Cautious. Your adoptee may have a lot of fear and yes, grief, to process. If he felt like a part of his former family, he may be grieving his sudden "ejection." He may need time and patience to take an interest in food, play, or his general surroundings. If he was starved or kept isolated, he'll need time and patience to learn to socialize.

"Readable." Buying a puppy means taking a wild guess atrepparttar 125825 eventual adult. When you rescue a grown dog, you get a much better idea of his personality. It's easier to makerepparttar 125826 perfect match.

*Am Irepparttar 125827 right type of owner for a Rescue Dog?

An important question! You,repparttar 125828 owner, arerepparttar 125829 last and most crucial link in a chain. The chain's only purpose is provide a "happily-ever-after" for a dog that desperately deserves one. Can you be that happily-ever-after, even for a dog that may have some rough edges?

Boxers Dogs as Pets - Are they right for you?

Written by Kathy Burns-Millyard


Pet Boxers, although low-maintenance, require your consistent attention, exercise, human interaction, consistent obedience training and lots of love. You cannot leave them to their own design for too long or they get lonely, bored and into trouble.

Being a big and strong dog as well as a highly intelligent one, Boxers need both physical and mental stimulations to keep them even-tempered and dignified while still keeping their impish spirit and fearless courage in tact.

How to keep Boxer out of trouble

Their high prey drive (some owners called it play drive) needs proper outlets or they could get destructive as house pets, and tend to fight among themselves especially ifrepparttar other family Boxers are ofrepparttar 125813 same sex. The female, it seems, is more aggressive thanrepparttar 125814 male.

Keeping Boxers busy isrepparttar 125815 best way to keep them out of trouble! Tire them out with long walks, 3 times a day. Give them plenty of exercise, play with them, especiallyrepparttar 125816 inquisitive puppies or they would tear up your home out of boredom, pent up energy and frustration.

For all your love and caring, be prepared for wet slobbery drool and kisses and love in return.

What some proud owners say about their pet Boxers:

* "Having a Boxer is like having another human in a dog body with you. You can talk to Boxers and they would understand. They demonstrate feelings just like human does. If they are loved, they will love and protect you."

* "Boxers arerepparttar 125817 most loyal companions. My Boxers bring me up when I am down. They arerepparttar 125818 canine clowns ofrepparttar 125819 dog world. They arerepparttar 125820 only dogs for me."

* "They are a gift! The two I have are always smiling and they cheer me up when IĈm not too happy. They can be your friends for life!"

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