It’s heartbreaking to see someone give up their beloved dog, but it’s often easier for those with weaker bonds with their dogs.
A strong bond begins the day the dog is adopted, which makes proper owner-dog matching essential. Many shelters and rescues work closely with adopters to ensure the dog fits their current and future lifestyle, but ultimately the adopter must make the choice they believe is right for them. With dogs living an average of 10-13 years (up to 15 for smaller breeds), the right adopter should be able to commit for the long term. If not, the risk of surrender increases.When selecting a dog for adoption, people should consider several key factors:
Lifestyle & Activity Level: Match the dog’s energy with your own. Size & Space: Ensure your living space suits the dog’s size. Time Commitment: Be ready for daily walks, play, and training. Experience & Training: Choose a dog suited to your experience level. Long-Term Commitment: Dogs require lifelong care. Health: Consider breed-specific health needs, recognizing most shelter and rescue dogs are mixed breeds and assignments of breeds are based solely on physical characteristics, not DNA tests. Other Pets: Ensure compatibility with current pets. Many shelters and rescues will facilitate pre-adoption “meet-and-greets” with resident dogs to assess suitability for the new home. Financial Responsibility: Prepare for costs like food, vet care, and grooming. Temperament & Personality: Choose a dog whose personality fits your family.By considering these factors, potential adopters can ensure they find the right dog for their home and lifestyle today and in the future, creating a bond with their dog that lasts its entire life.
Read more about rising owner-surrendered dogs in this CBS Colorado article.