Some rescues are small, private endeavors servicing
perhaps a portion of a city. Many others operate on a large
enough scale to service an entire city, state, or even a group
of contigious states. And some operate as 501(c)3 non-profit
organizations of varying size and services offered. But, regardless
of size and number of services offered, all animal rescues exist
to rescue, shelter, rehabilitate (to whatever degree possible),
and re-home the animals in their care. The individuals involved
in rescue do it solely because of their love and compassion
for animals and, more often than not, find it difficult to make
financial ends meet at the end of the month.
In the case of dog rescues in general–and Boxer rescues
in particular–you will find that their rules of operation
are fairly consistent from one organization to another across
the country. They usually know one another and cooperate with
other Boxer rescues in many aspects of the rescue and adoption
processes.
There is an established procedure regarding the public's interest
in adopting from a rescue service. You can expect a strict application
process, an interview, evaluation and approval process, and
a home inspection. All dogs are spayed/neutered. Prospective
adoptive "parents" must understand that the important
issue is the welfare of the dog, and each rescue organization
will take all necessary steps to ensure a successful adoption.
After all, the dog has already come from one unfortunate situation.
Please Note: In the unlikely event that an adoption just
doesn't work out, the rescue service expects to have the dog
returned to them, as stipulated in the adoption contract you
sign. In these instances, it is of the utmost importance that
the dog be returned directly to the rescue service rather than
given away, sold, or taken to the local shelter. It has
been proven many times over that this is ultimately the safest
and most compassionate procedure to follow. Remember,
you have agreed in your adoption contract to do so.
Please note that rescues do not operate on a first come first
served basis. Their dogs are placed into the most suitable home
according to their temperament and needs. It is not abnormal
for multiple families to be interested in the same dog.
The application process can take some time. Rescue services
do not wish to rush the placements of their dogs. They need
to ensure that the appropriate dog is placed into the most suitable
environment.
Each rescue group sets their own fee schedule. It is important
to know that the adoption fee is not for the purchase of a dog,
but rather to help cover the medical costs of all dogs in their
care.
Finally,
be aware that all rescue people are extremely busy. Many
even try to juggle caring for several dogs with a job outside
the home. For this reason, please be patient and persistent
when trying to contact them on the telephone or via email. They
want very much to help you. But they must spend much of their
time at vet clinics, shelters, transporting dogs, and are frequently
occupied with the never-ending duties of rescue. So, please
do try more than once to contact them.
The
rescue service, on behalf of the dogs they love, protect and
care for, will always appreciate hearing from you.
