Different avenues for dog adoption

In the past, when people decided it was time to add a dog to their

family, they usually headed for the pet store. If they had done some

research and were willing to pay considerably more, they might

contact a breeder. However, pet owners now realize that there are

several different options and alternatives to consider when adopting

a rescued dog.

Adopting a Purebred: If you don’t have a particular breed or

requirement in mind, adopting is an easy choice. However, if you have

your heart set on a certain breed, you don’t have to go to a breeder

to find one! Beautiful, pure-bred dogs are saved by breed rescue

groups on a daily basis and they all need new, loving homes.

Adopting a Mutt: Consider the joy and benefits of adopting a mixed

breed dog. With an ‘all American dog’, you can enjoy the best

qualities of several breeds while the bad aspects of the breeds often

cancel each out.

Adopting an Adult Dog: Many dogs are abandoned after the cute

puppy stage is over, kids lose interest and the parents realize that

they have taken on a responsibility they don’t want. Adopting a young

or adult dog provides many benefits -- especially if you have a busy

lifestyle. You will probably be able to bypass the struggles with

housebreaking, chewing and crying. Although a rescued dog may come

with some “baggage” by the time you are ready to adopt, the foster

family or rescue group will be able to apprise you of the animal’s

traits.

A recent example was found on a Web site promoting the adoption of

a brother and sister pair of three-year-old sheepdogs. The animals

were described as having a tendency to try and “herd small children.”

For more information, visit www.cmbarkpark.org.