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I Want To Adopt A Dog From A Shelter But I Am Afraid Of Health Problems And Behavior.?

November 8th, 2009 § 28

What can do to prevent these problems. Is it a good idea to train the dog. Should i get it nutered?

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§ 28 Responses to “I Want To Adopt A Dog From A Shelter But I Am Afraid Of Health Problems And Behavior.?”

  • M@caroni says:

    Actually, if you’re going to adopt a dog from the animal shelter, there’s a small payment, About $37 bucks here in West Covina. And with that payment, the animal shelter neutre/spay all the dog before they can give them to you. They provide all the shots such as rabies and the 6 in 1 that is against the most fatal viruses like a parvo, the kennel cough and etc. the first day the dogs were taken into the pound and you also have one free vet examination at any participating vets within the first five days of having the dog. And if the dog doesn’t work out for you, got sick, or for any other reason, there is a 14 day exchange where you can come in drop off the dog and get a new one if you like.
    I got my new 3mon old pup at the animal shelter and he is just fine and healthy. Knowing that i saved a life, I couldn’t be more happier =)
    Good luck to you!

  • BLOODHOU says:

    that’s the best place to get a pet from. they do not ever adopt out sick animals and it will be neutered before you bring it home.it will have also been put many test to make sure it has a good temperament. go pick out the dog you want and don’t worry about it being sick…….thanks you will probably be saving a life.

  • ibsawdus says:

    Get one from a rescue center..These are usually dogs that just had to be given up due to death in family, divorce or moving..They usually have all the information , like if good with children , cats dogs , people in general..If you live in the USA we have a thing called http://www.brandnamepetsupplies.com/store/dog/fleaandtick/index.htm " it’s where I just got my new puppy..Good luck.

  • We adopted a little puppy from the animal shelter, and we had it neutered and we trained it. We did NOT abuse it or mishandle it, and it had some nasty behavioral problems that would appear every so often. At the age of 3, it was put down because it bit my face.
    ADDED- it should also be known that no behavioral problems were evident when we got him since he was so little.

  • anna84 says:

    i’m pretty sure all dogs that come from the shelter are spayed or neutered. the best dogs come from shelters. i have owned several and they are always the most loyal and obedient.

  • deb says:

    The shelter in my area screens all dogs before they are put up for adoption, they also require them to be nurtured, they pay for it and the shots. Call the shelter near you and talk to them, they Will answer all of your questions.

  • Bozema says:

    Health problems shouldn’t be any more of a problem as long as the shelter is well maintained. Ask the staff about the behavior of the dogs you are interested in and interact with them. Definitely take the dog to obedience training. Most shelters neuter before you get the dog, but if they don’t then definitely do it.

  • Anonymous says:

    Dogs from shelters are checked and treated for any health problems before being adopted out.
    Shelters also spay and nuter them before sending them out, some shelters will make you pay for that. ($25-75)
    Of course you should train the dog, many pet stores have trainin
    g classes.

  • smurf says:

    A dog from a shelter or rescue will be fully disclosed to you about any known health issues, they’re in it to find the dog a permanent home not make a buck (unlike some breeders). Also any dog adopted from a shelter or rescue will have been spayed or neutered and the cost is already included in the adoption fee.
    Dogs at shelters are screened for behaviorial problems…anything severe like aggression or health issues that are severely terminal will result in the dog being put down as it would be deemed unadoptable. Anything that can be worked on or is a managable health issue should be fully disclosed.
    No matter where you get a dog from you should plan on doing obedience training with it to establish you as the alpha/pack leader and to help you bond with the new dog. Also, spaying or neutering is also a wise idea regardless of where you get a dog, you just get the benefit of it being included in an adopted dog versus buying from a breeder. Also, a dog from a shelter or rescue will be current on it’s shots but you should always consider getting additional ones like for kennel cough and some heartworm preventative. they also come microchipped.
    You can check out my dogs’ website and tell me if you can see any problems with them. http://www.brandnamepetsupplies.com/store/reptileamphibian/lighting/index.htm " Two of them were from a rescue (http://www.brandnamepetsupplies.com/store/reptileamphibian/lighting/index.htm " one was a stray.

  • 3595 says:

    I imagine they are trained to an extent and any illness treated by the shelter to make sure they’re fit to be rehomed. They can’t intentionally give you a dog they know may harm you.

  • Myriam P says:

    When you adopt a pet from a shelter is usually spade or neutered if not take him to the Humane Society and let them know that is an adoption. Also find out as much as you can from the shelter about the history of the dog, these are dogs usually from the street or from people that can’t keep them anymore and are usually very loving and grateful to have a home but get as much info as you can. The humane society also have medical services to give your pet a check up.
    MP

  • luvpitbu says:

    most the time when you get a pet from the shelter the animal is already fixed.
    shelters treat the animals health as well before they are adopted. when you bring home a pet it is always Wise to train them to fit your life stile. you should spend time at the shelter with the dog you have selected before you bring him/her home. just to be sure that you know the animal’s temperament and that it fits you and your life stile

  • searchin says:

    The shelter will neuter the dog for you and give it all its shots! It’s a bargain! Just talk to the people at the shelter. They will have spent a lot of time with the animals and will know their personalities. There are lots of great pets waiting at shelters and thousands are killed each day because there’s no one to give them a loving home.
    Just go to the shelter and talk to the staff. If it feels right, then get a dog. If you don’t connect with a dog on this visit, go back next week. There’ll be more to choose from.
    Good luck!

  • jay says:

    okay foster a dog
    if youdont like it thats ok
    it will get adopted

  • I work at an animal shelter, and I can assure you that those dogs are healthy. When we do intake, we take them over to the vet for a complete checkup, and if anything is wrong with them, they stay in the infirmary (little quiet hospital holding type place) until they are back to health with medicine in them and happy. All the dogs are treated with flea and tick medicine, and all of their living spaces are sanitized each and every morning with new blankets, toys, balls, beds, everything. We make sure that they get the proper amount of food, and we pay attention to the poop to look for diseases. Also, every morning when we take the dogs out to play in their runs, we do a mini checkover to see if they’re okay.
    If there are any aggresive problems, we work with a few dog trainers- as do mose shelters do- to assist in helping the dog be trained. There has been very few times when we have had to put down a dog that is extremely aggressive.
    You’ll find a wonderful dog at the shelter, no doubt about it. They all are loving and are loved, and just want a home. Good luck!!! ^_^

  • Liplicio says:

    Well, most health problems can be taking care of. But behavioral problems can be a problem. Especially if it was abused. So, I would spend a great amount of time with the pooch before you adopt him. Yes, I would train him in obedience, because it makes a nicer day when you come home and your dog doesn’t jump all over you.

  • teenytin says:

    I’d strongly advise adopting a puppy under 4 months, take the animal out of the cage and spend a good hour with it, normally you will see if he is reactive to anything. depending on the shelter they may temp test and know if the young animal is food aggressive, dog aggressive, good with kids. If you go for a grown animal be sure to get one that has been fostered or some other information known on it. Try not to judge a dog on color, if you don’t want a heavily shedding animal you won’t be able to tell if it’s a pup. You don’t sound like you’ve owned alot of dogs so try and work closely with an adoption clerk, look for lab or golden mixes, or smaller mixed dogs. Stay away from Rotts, pits and shepards they need someone with alot of time and history with dogs.
    Most shelters spay and neuter, if not then yes! they aren’t show animals and you don’t need puppies or an animal that will pee all over, unless you know hpw to train a dog then yes.

  • ginbark says:

    Most if not all shelters neuter their dogs. Read a book called Successful Dog Adoption, it has a great section on getting a dog with a great temperament. The dog should go to the vet, shelters here include a free visit, for a health check within 5 days of adopting. A good shelter does not offer dogs with problems for adoption as there are too many great, healthy dogs dying for lack of homes to bother putting aggressive sick dogs up for adoption. I adopted my choc field bred Lab from a shelter and he had no problems except he hated getting his nails cut. By the time I had him a month he accepted his nails being trimmed and now he lies there while I use a Dremel. Obed. training is a terrific idea for any dog, all my personal dogs and foster go to school. Even boarders get lessons while I have them. I can not see why people prefer to live with a dog with no training. Most new dogs need a 2-4 week time frame to settle into their new routine so do not expect the dog to be perfectly housebroken as his schedule is now different, his food is different and even different water can cause problems. I do rescue and my fosters are all acclimated in about 24 hours as they follow my dogs’ lead. My Lab was 2 when I adopted him and he was a loose house dog from the next morning after I got him. He meshed well with my 6 dog pack but I temperament tested him b4 I adopted him.

  • Laurence W says:

    Shelters usually require neutering, and you prevent other dogs ending up there.
    Always train a dog.
    Look for a dog at the shelter that looks healthy and energetic, and has a sweet disposition. If there are not any, come back in a few weeks.
    I have never brought a bad animal back, and the animals never gave me a problem later.

  • Music<3 says:

    most rescues and shelters require their dogs to be neutured befor being adopted.
    hers some tips on how to care for adopted dogs:How to Take Care of Your New Adopted Dog
    Whether you and your new dog have come together as a result of a dog adoption, dog rescue or other means, one thing is certain…you must take the best care possible of your dog to assure the dog’s health and a long and rewarding life together.
    Your new dog will need time to adjust to his new home and family. He just left a kennel or shelter where there were strange sounds and people.. Now he is in a new place with another set of new people and an environment that he needs to get comfortable in. He’ll want to explore. He’ll want to get to know his new home.. He’ll probably have some accidents as he gets to know his surroundings and will chew a few things. Keep on eye on him but expect this to happen. It’s all common during the adjustment period.
    Here’s a few tips on dog care to get you started:
    · Make sure your dog has been micro-chipped . This is a simple little device injected under the skin and will help identify your new adopted dog in case the dog ever gets lost and is brought to a dog shelter or dog rescue.
    1. Another important accessory is a soft dog collar with an id tag attached. The id tag should have your name and a current phone number that you can be reached at in the event someone finds your newly adopted dog after a doggy adventure. Many careful dog guardians have discovered that their pal has slipped out a door, through a fence or run out to play only to get lost. Proper identification will enhance the probability of a quick and safe return home.
    · Make sure you keep your dog on a leash at all times when you go for a walk . This will protect your dog from potential dangers such as cars and other dogs. It also will help you control your dog and protect her in the event the dog becomes excited at the site of other dogs or people.
    · Spay or Neuter your Dog- Spaying and neutering is a very basic procedure that will help your dog live a longer and healthier life. Spayed or neutered fogs have fewer behavioral issues such as aggression . And finally, spaying and neutering helps control the exploding dog population. This will reduce the stress on overpopulated dog shelters and help reduce the number of unwanted dogs that are euthanized annually.
    · Choose the Perfect Veterinarian- Your adopted dog should receive regular vet checkups as a preventative medicine function and to treat any problems that may arise. Certain vaccinations are required by law such as one for rabies. When you choose a vet, ask the doctor what his/her philosophy is as to vaccinations, nutrition and general treatment protocols. One you select the vet that you feel is best for your dog, you will be started on a lifelong relationship for good canine health.
    · Feed a high quality dog food.-There are a number of different philosophies on the best type of food to feed your adopted dog. Some believe that dogs should eat RAW food as they would in the wild. Others believe that kibble is the best way to go. Yet others decide to cook meats, veggies and rice as a diet. Talk with your vet as to what is best for your dog nutritionally and as to quantity and frequency of feedings. If you choose a commercial dog food make sure that it is not mostly filler. You can determine this by looking at the first agreements on the package. When you see grains and by products mentioned and the price is a bargain…leave it behind. Your adopted dog needs a nutritionally based diet that will help keep him healthy, not junk food. When in doubt, ask your vet.
    · Make sure your adopted dog is licensed. You will need to province proof of vaccinations and should get an id tag. Your vet, the local dog shelter or dog rescue can provide you with information.
    Make sure your adopted dog has a warm place to live in the winter and cool place in the summer. Your dog should always have access to fresh water. I don’t support the idea of “outdoor” dogs. Dogs enjoy playing in the yard but should have a safe and comfortable place to rest . And never under any circumstance chain your dog and leave her unattended. Your dog wants to be with you and share your time and space. Having a companion is why you brought your dog home in the first place, isn’t it?
    Exercise your dog with frequent walks and play. Both you and your dog will benefit from the exercise, making your relationship stronger . Walk your dog at least 2 times a day. Exercise and meeting other folks along the way with friendly dogs will also help you to socialize your dog. Ask your vet how much exercise your dog should receive.
    Join a dog training class. Many places offer group lessons on basic behavior and socialization. This is a wonderful and inexpensive opportunity for you and your new adopted dog to develop a solid foundation.
    Be a Pal to Your Dog- Dog behavior and care can at times be frustrating. But almost any situation can be resolved with a little information and help. Don’t approach your new adopted dog with rapid hand movements at his face. He will be scared and his reaction may be unexpected including fear or aggressive behavior as a defense mechanism. When you have a question or don’t know what to do next, consult with your veterinarian, dog trainers and dog rescue folks who have probably seen the exact same situation countless times. Your adopted dog is now a member of your family and is counting on you to be a guardian and a pal.

  • RT(R) says:

    Its all up to you. You can adopt a perfectly well behaved dog, but if you arent a pack leader then the dog can go sour. Always neuter your dog or cat! Always! Training a dog will only result in him being able to do ‘tricks’ like sit, stay, come. But if the dog doesnt behave there is no point to getting him trained. The dog has to be a well behaved balanced dog first. Walking is key. Make the dog earn everything he gets, from love to going outside to eating. When I say earn, it means take him on a walk first, when he is calm and relaxed, or when he does a behavior you want him to do. Never coddle a dog or give him lovings or rewards when he is misbehaving. Never yell or hit a dog. It’ll only make it worse.

  • eadmon says:

    1- Yes – get neutered ASAP – many shelters and SPCA’s have good deals from vets.
    2- take to your vet and get health checked
    3- yes training is ALWAYS good for any pet no matter where you get it.
    You will find great companions at shelters and they seem to be the most appreciative when taken into a forever home. I hope your commitment level is lifetime. The last thing a rescued dog needs is to be discarded again.

  • Taylor T says:

    The shelters wont let the pets be adopted unless they have pased the behavior test and the health test. So dont be afraid to adopt from any agency, Hope this advice works for you, Taylor!(:

  • claudiac says:

    You’re probably better off getting a dog from a shelter than any place else, except, maybe, a reputable breeder. (not puppy mills or backyard breeders). Shelter dogs are checked and treated for diseases before they are offered for adoption. Their temperment is evaluated, and if they are a risk to people or other pets, they are not placed for adoption. If you get a dog from a shelter, it will be neutered or spayed. That cost will be passed on to you in the adoption process. Training is always a good idea, but you will be surprised to find that many older dogs are already well trained, and came to be available for adoption through some misfortune (getting lost from home, owner dying, etc.). If not, places like Petco and Petsmart conduct training classes for you and your dog. I think you will be very happy with a shelter dog.

  • talk to the people how work there they will tell you where the dog can from and what he is like

  • rhubarb says:

    Don’t be afraid. The very, absolute best dog I’ve ever had came from a shelter. When you go pay close attention to how they act. Calm behavior is best. Also, know the size you want and how much coat you want to deal with. If you see one you want, walk him outside on a leash for awhile. Tell the attendant you want to think about it and ask them to hold the dog for a few hours. Go back and get in the pen with the dog, make sure he is still calm. Take him home- You’ll make a friend for life. Spay/neuter- this will extend their life baring unforseen accidents. Get a book on training and teach him first to behave on a leash- walks are important and something you will be doing every single day to keep you both happy and healthy. All the best.

  • HayHay Bene` says:

    ok…….don’t let that inter-fear! I mean if you think about it and you don’t get it it might be put down to sleep! But you could train it and all that!! So it is worth it! I have a dog and when I need someone by myside I will go get my dog!

  • you should bring it to a vet and ask them to give your dog a check up (it would be best to have it neutered, could cost over $100) but it will decrease yuor dog from running away.yuo should buy toys and treats to train it that could keep your dog from chewing furniture or other stuff and people (dog bite doesn’t hurt much i get dog bite all the time and i like it)but older dog does’ nt bite much ’cause their teeth don’t grow any more.

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