Adopting the Right Dog

                     Shelter Dogs are NOT broken. They are homeless animals looking for love. 

Adopting from today's shelters is not easy. If you know the breed you want, you will find YOUR breed in the shelter. ALL breeds end up there. Many have a "wish list" you can sign up . Labradoodles, Dobbies, Labs,  Poodles,  St. Bernard's, they all do. Walk along the cages and look at each one. Their approximate age,sex and breed will be listed.  The information is a "best guess" from the ACO  and it could be very wrong.  Think about how much time and energy do you want to put into your new family member . A 2 year old Jack Russell is going to want a lot more of your time than a 5 year old Golden.Mixes. If that animal has bitten anyone, the shelter would not adopt it out 


If you see a dog you like, get them out of the cage and as far away from the shelter as you can.  Please-  give them a few minutes to take care of business,. Spend some with them. I'd check to see how aggressive they are first. If you have children, or another pet, it's good if they are more passive. After spending some time talking to the dog and walking him as much as you can, let them feel your love. Pet them, pick up a paw and press between their pads lightly. See if they lick at your hand or they try to nip. While petting and being nice,  roll them over on their back and see if they stay there and let you rub there belly, or do they fight to get back up. Get a sense of them. It's hard in that environment, so give both of you a while together. 


You'll know when it's right. If the first dog is not, get another. They ll all need to get out, even if it is for a few minutes. You are doing them a big favor. Shelters always need help walking the dogs. 
I have a long list of things to look for when choosing the right shelter dog for you. 
I will be happy to send it to you on request.            
If I can meet you at the Guilford shelter and help you find the right animal , just let me know.