“Rescue Me” is a recurring column by Samantha Randall, editor of Top tips for dogs. She will provide personal anecdotes and perspective on her life as a pet lover with a passion for rescuing cats and dogs. Today, she reflects on what to do if you feel your rescued pet isn’t working.
Making the decision to repatriate your dog is never a pleasant experience, regardless of the reason. However, sometimes it is the best – or even the only – solution. And if you duty If you are rehoming a rescue dog, especially a dog that you have only recently rescued, the situation is even more complicated.
If you have given the situation serious thought and repatriating your rescue still seems like the best option for you and your pet, there is nothing to be ashamed of the decision. You tried your best, and it just didn’t work. See below for tips on how to find your dog in the best possible situation.
However, many circumstances that seem impossible to overcome have solutions. Before choosing to find a new home for your dog, be sure to carefully consider your situation.
For example:
- Moving to a new house — This is one of the most common reasons owners put their dogs up for adoption or try to find them new homes. However, many rentals are pet-friendly, and you can often work with landlords to allow you to keep the dog, so make sure you’ve discussed the details of your potential new home first.
- Not enough time — Some dog owners end up running out of time to take care of their dogs (walking, training, playtime), but you can hire a dog walker or ask a neighbor or friends to help you from time to time. Dog daycare is another option for dog owners with long working hours.
- Allergy in the family — If you have discovered that someone in your household is allergic to pet hair, you can try allergy pills or air purifiers that contain allergens. Keeping dust at bay by sweeping, dusting, and vacuuming frequently can often help reduce symptoms.
- Baby on the way — Getting pregnant is another common reason for couples to rehom their dogs. However, dogs often get along well with newborns and in many cases there is nothing to worry about, even with rescue dogs that have not been in your family for a long time.
- Financial problems – If your financial situation has changed and you can’t afford your dog’s healthcare, discuss payment options with your veterinarian. You can also research organizations that can help alleviate veterinary bills. There are also plenty of ways to save on pet supplies. Finally, if you can’t cover basic needs, consider asking a friend to temporarily care for your dog until your financial situation improves.
- Health problems – Sometimes a dog owner’s health deteriorates and he is unable to properly care for his dog. If you think your health problem is temporary, consider asking someone (friend, neighbor, family member) to take care of your dog during this time. However, if your health problems seem to be long-lasting, repatriation is probably the best solution.
- Behavioral issues – Rescue dogs sometimes have unexpected behavior problems. Here is more on this topic.
How to rehom your rescue dog
It is distressing to discover that circumstances may leave you with no choice but to abandon your rescue. In many cases, creative thinking or temporary assistance works to keep you together. Sometimes, however, the best or only solution is to repatriate your friend.
If you decide to go this route, there are things you can do to make sure your pooch finds a good new home.
- Ask a family member or close friend – Perhaps the best way to rehome a rescue dog is to find it a home with someone you know and trust.
- Advertise for adoption — Another solution is to use social media to find a new home for the dog. Be sure to present all important information and make your pooch presentable to increase the chances of adoption. Post on Adopt-a-Pet. Ask your vet to spread the word or recommend someone they know is looking for a dog. And don’t forget to do your due diligence and make sure the dog goes to a good home.
- Bring back the rescue dog you adopted — Shelters and sanctuaries often accept the dog back when needed, and some even prefer that you go first if the dog isn’t working for you. They might even let you keep the dog until they find another good home, if that’s what you prefer.
- Find a good refuge or shelter — If the shelter you adopted the dog from cannot take it back, look for other shelters and sanctuaries in your area that have a no-disposal policy and a good reputation.
The right decision for all
Making the decision to rehom a pet isn’t easy, especially when it’s a rescue dog. They have already been abandoned at least once and only want to find a permanent home with their new parents.
That said, don’t feel bad, it’s sometimes an unavoidable decision. If you put in the effort and try to overcome the difficulties to the best of your ability, it’s best for everyone to find a safe and happy new home for your rescue dog.
