Liz ( my adoptions co-ordinator) and I have often been perplexed at some of the adoption applications that come through to go on our waiting list for a rescue GSD. Sometimes I think we could be having our leg pulled as they are so way out in left field. Because of this I thought I would put together our requirements to be considered for adoption. So here goes.
Consideration for adoption.
To be considered to become a guardian of these magnificant animals there are certain requirements that have to be met.
Your home must be securely fenced with fence height of 1.8 meters (consideration will be given to slightly lower heights if placement is for a senior, non jumper dog)
You must allow the dog access to the home. We will not, in any circumstances, place a dog in a home where it will be 100% outside. You just cannot adapt a dog into your life style under those circumstances. In winter when it is usually dark when you go to work, often dark when you come home, the dog is not allowed inside, just tell me when it does actually see you. How will you even know if the dog is not well or has a health problem. We have taken dogs into rescue that have been outside dogs and in one case on the 2nd night in her new home, late at night the dog had a seizure. The previous owner information stated the dog had no health issues. After veterinary consultation and several more seizures the dog was diagnosed with epilepsy. She was 4 years old and had probably had it for sometime but due to being a 100% outside dog this was not observed by the owner. Dogs are placed as family pets, so we expect you to treat them like your family. They are also pack animals, you become their pack. Isolation from their pack causes stress which is then directed in to inappropriate behaviour such as digging, barking or roaming to gain attention, then strangely enough the owners get in trouble with the neighbours and the dog gets rehomed or impounded.
Adopting a German Shepherd into your home can be a big adjustment for everyone however the dog has the most adjustments. It has to come to terms with leaving it's prior home (or recover from the trauma of being lost, ending up in the pound, waiting 7 days, being desexed) and then adjust to a new environment, new owners, often Mum, Dad and a couple of kids. It has to develop a relationship, figure out who is pack leader, get used to new commands and more often than not a new name. In the beginning the dog probably doesn't realise you are actually talking to him. There are other things that can come into it also and that is existing family pets...
If you own a cat you must be realistic in your expectations of an early peaceful relationship. German Shepherds are high drive animals. It will take work. If you have more than 2 house cats please do not even consider a German Shepherd. It is too stressful for all concerned.
Multidog homes. It is nice to have more than one dog in the family, they are great company for each other. You may have lost one of your dogs and the remaining dog is feeling alone. The right match of dogs can really help. However those who have 4-5 dogs and apply to adopt a GSD will not be considered. Again, it is unrealistic to expect an adult dog to easily adjust to that type of situation.
Rental properties MUST be accompanied by landlord permission in writing stating you are allowed a dog INSIDE your home.
Dog's to order - While our adoption application does offer you colour choice and coat choice we do not 'rescue to order' so requests for large bone, dark masked, standard coat with guarantee on hip dysplasia and strong ear set are best directed to a breeder. We help the dogs that need help, often with no background to check into. If the dog is an undersized, floppy eared long coat and a wonderful temperament we will help it find a loving home just as we will for the 'perfect' example of the breed.
We do not have a sale price on German Shepherds that we place and have in the past relied on the adopter to make a donation to help cover the outgoings we incur getting them ready for adoption, i.e. microchipping, vaccinating, desexing and registration. Sadly this has not been happening despite "I will do an internet payment". so in future there will be an adoption cost, payable at the time of accepting the dog. These adoption fees no way cover our outgoings but it does enable us to recoup a portion of those expenses. Please see our July 2011 newsletter regarding this.
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