One of the things that a lot of people overlook when looking for a family member is the ability to rescue a pet. The local shelters and rescues have several pets looking for forever homes everyday. They have a range of age, and breeds. I am a board member of the Las Vegas Labrador rescue in town. I have personally seen puppies who are 10 weeks old, to senior dogs come thru the rescue all loving dogs.
Benny, a rescue who knows several tricks!
The benefits of adopting your next family member besides saving a life of an animal is the pure love that a rescue seems to give. I believe they know what you have done for them. I have seen purebred dogs who have taken hours upon hours of training and structure to fix issues. I have seen rescue dogs who have high energy and drive learn things over a short amount of time like pushing a wheelchair, climbing a ladder and other tricks.
Rescued from the streets. Wonderfully happy puppies!
My boy, Bear was a rescue. When I met him he was around 2. He was potty trained, knew a few basic commands and was overall a great dog. I would assume someone put the the time in to train him and then felt he wasn't a fit. Bear has a few little quirks about him but overall I had a pretty good idea of what his demeanor and level of training was when I foster failed. Foster failing is when you volunteer for a rescue, you often have dogs living in your home. You take them on meet and greets, or to adoption events and take care of them, while they are looking for a forever home. The "foster failing" is when you decide to become their forever home.
Rescue dogs often are overlooked due to numerous factors, however the dogs often just need a little help adjusting to home life. People often don't understand the time and energy needed to properly exercise a dog so they don't destroy the house. I have heard stories of people giving up on their dogs because they got new carpets! How ridiculous is that!
"Mikey" was put on a rescue list due to health concerns, a simple procedure and he is as good as new!
Rescue dogs often come with all of their shots, a veterinary checkup, and a microchip! The average adoption fee is around 200-300, compared to the price of a purebred dog, it leaves lots of room for toys, treats and comfy dog beds!
I know often you are looking for a specific type of breed that may be rare, just make informed decisions and keep that pet for life! I always look forward to photographing any pets, whether rescued or purchased.
Woofs,
-Rick Vierkandt Bark Gallery