Question:My brother and I have always considered getting a dog. And now we are considering adopting a 10 months male lab from another owner - I think this would make things a little easier for us, since the dog is house broken, trained, etc. They say they want to find a new home for him since they don't have enough time for him and he needs more attention. Valid reason for me. But, I don't want to take this lightly ... anyone have some advice about adopting from another owner. We plan on meeting the dog first. But what else should I look out for? BTW, they are asking for $250 for the adoption fees too.
Answers:
Before your meeting, make a list of questions you may have, and put them down on paper. This way, you ensure that you'll not forget anything. Ask questions like: What's the dog's temperment? How much does he eat? Have you had problems with destruction, such as chewing or tearing furniture? What type of attention do you think he needs that you have been unable to give him? Etc. Leave no question unasked. Make sure you tell his current "parents" you are asking these questions because you don't take adoption lightly.
Do understand that animals are very much like humans when it comes to new surroundings and new family. Some may adapt so easily, its a breeze. Others may be a little "depressed" at first, or confused. I adopted a cat once who was downright angry that she had been uprooted, and she let me know it. She refused to eat for almost a week and wanted absolutely nothing to do with me. I wouldn't approach her, or try to force her to eat. I talked to her alot though in a calm, sweet voice. And I would put fresh food out for her daily even if she wouldn't eat it. Within the first couple weeks, she warmed up to me and finally stopped being so angry. I have to admit, I was about ready to throw in the towel, but I'm really glad I didn't because she turned out to be a great pet.
Labs are usually pretty adaptable dogs, and make great pets. Just bear in mind, they are big and are very social, so they do need lots of attention. They absolutely love water too! If you get him, buy him a sprinkler or kiddy pool and he'll be your friend forever.
Lastly, thank you for not taking adoption lightly. Too many people buy pets without much thought, and the pets end up suffering. Good luck to you and your brother.
DO NOT PAY A DIME!
"Adoption fees" are through non profit 501(3) c organizations.
They want to sell you a dog they can't handle. Go to a rescu or shelter. I have three foster dogs right now that are house broken.
If they "adopted" the dog they can take it back to where they got it and you can adopt it from them. DOn't give people money for a pet. NEVER!
First of all, look if the dog looks healthy. Is the skin elastic? Is the fur well cared for? Is the nose wet? Then if you did that, check out the personality of the dog. If it comes over nervous it might have 2 reasons, first would be it's personality, second could be abuse. Ask it's background, did he have his yearly check up with the vet? How old is he/she? Does he/she have a certificate? How does he/she react with (example) other pets? And with children?
Unfortunatly I cannot help you with the price. I hope It helped a bit.
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