Adoption Dogs
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We occasionally have an adult dog that we would like to place with the right family. All of our adult dogs spend time in the house, are well-mannered, house trained and good with cats! These are dogs that we are no longer breeding and need a retirement home (or rarely a former puppy of ours that has, for
some reason, come back to us for placement.) Their vaccinations are up to date, they have been spayed or neutered and if a former breeding dog they have had extensive health testing as well. We want them
to have a family of their own who will
give them the undivided attention they deserve.
We sometimes ask a reasonable adoption fee for these nice dogs.
Some Common Sense Tips For Rehoming An Adult Dog:
As with any adult adoption there will be a period of adjustment until the dog adjusts to their new home and attaches themselves to their new family. They must be closely supervised during this period...which may vary in length from
dog to dog but a good rule of thumb is at least two weeks..sometimes longer, sometimes shorter. Always leashing outside, possibly letting the dog drag around a short lead even in the house, never chasing them, using their crate as a safe space to rest and eat their meals and always letting them come to you. Treats and toys make good bribes! A low key evening of movies and POPCORN can work miracles! They all love popcorn!
An excellent way of introducing your new dog to children they don't know is to have the child sit quietly and toss the dog treats or a favorite toy. Also helping the child (if old enough) to "take the dog for a walk" is helpful. Never let the child approach the dog if it's in its crate or disturb the dog when it's sleeping or quietly chewing on a toy. Absolutely no kissing the dog...anywhere...ever! Especially in the beginning everyone's space should be respected. Don't give your dog chew
toys made of actual animal parts...no pig ears, cow hooves, real bones, etc....
nothing the dog would perceive as "food."
A good hard chew toy is a Nylabone. Our dogs love these!
These are common sense suggestions but they are sadly overlooked in many instances and can lead to a dog losing its new family before it ever
had any chance to feel at home.
Protecting your new dog from situations it isn't prepared to handle yet is important...unfamiliar visitors, strange dogs, unruly children...challenge yourself to see things from your new dog's perspective and do what's best to keep him/her safe and happy. Be their friend and advocate and set them up for success. When settled in everything will be taken in stride as your new friend embraces their new life with your family and just feels like one of the gang.
You will have a friend for life...and will likely have a snuggly GSP/JRT either snoring on your lap (or hogging the sofa!) most of the time.
Not every dog will require this much care during a transition to a new family. Younger dogs typically settle in rather quickly and are very happy from the start...but it's best to be a bit cautious and err on the side of caution.
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