Shelter Dogs – How To Find The Best Animal Shelters & Dog Adoption Facilities Near You

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Have you heard?... Dog adoption is the new black. That's right, it's becoming more popular to adopt a dog from an animal shelter than to buy a dog from a pet store. (Finally!) However, the different types of animal agencies that provide homes for dogs are often confused. Hopefully, the following information will help you see where they differ. We will also point you in the right direction and help you find the best places to safely adopt a dog in your area. See why shelter dogs … [Read more...]

Mixed Breed Dogs – The Pros & Cons Of Choosing A Designer Dog Or A Hybrid Dog

This is a Goldendoodle - a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. photo by Donnaphoto on Flickr

Hybrid dogs (what many are calling designer dogs) are canines that have purebred parents but each parent is from a different breed. Some examples are: Labradoodle - a dog that was bred to be a low-shedding dog with the behavior traits of a service or guide dog; a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle. Borderjack - a dog bred from a Border Collie and Jack Russell Terrier; created to excel in dog sports. Cockapoo - a dog that was bred to be low-shedding, good with kids, active, and a … [Read more...]

How To Find Your Lost Dog When He Disappears Unexpectedly

Lost dog poster. photo by Aine D on Flickr

There is no more gut wrenching feeling than the moment you first discover your dog has vanished for no apparent reason. I've experienced this myself. My then 6-year-old Yorkie/Pomeranian mix disappeared within just a minute or two of my inattention. It was the evening, and we were in Tucson Arizona. (See update below.) Dogs leave for many reasons: Some dogs work actively at trying to escape. Some dogs just like to wander and explore new places. Some dogs simply get spooked and … [Read more...]

Found A Dog? Here’s What To Do When You Find A Stray Dog

It's hard to ignore a stray dog that's wandering around looking hungry and alone. We've all seen it... You're driving your car when you see a dog on the side of the road. With a sinking feeling, you realize he's alone. What should you do? This is a wrenching scenario for all who care about animals. Once you've seen the dog (or cat or even rabbit), many feel it's too late to drive away from him or her. After all, what if your own pet were standing there?  Source   Your first … [Read more...]

Microchip Dog Facts – Have You Microchipped Your Dog AND Registered The Chip Yet?

Millions of pets are lost (or stolen) every year. Plus, natural disasters -- like fires, floods, hurricanes and tornadoes -- can easily catch you off-guard when they take place right in your own backyard. Even a car accident could send your dog scampering in a strange environment. The truth is your dog can get away from you very quickly due to a number of different circumstances.  Since most lost dogs end up in shelters where they are either adopted or euthanized, it's incredibly … [Read more...]

How To Become A Dog Foster Parent ~ What To Expect

Have you ever thought about being a dog foster parent? It's one of the best ways you can show your love for dogs and help them out at the same time. A foster home is merely a short-term safe haven for a rescued dog that isn't ready to be adopted yet. Many think of the bottom line: by fostering a dog, you are freeing up a shelter cage so that another dog’s life can be saved. Therefore, foster dogs simply need a place to live -- with someone who will love them until a permanent home can … [Read more...]

New Dog Breed Names For Mixed Breed Dogs

Have you ever heard of a Muggin, Goldmation or a Snorkie?  Sometimes, you can tell by the name which dog breeds where mixed together to create the new dog breed. For example, Labradoodle is a mix between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. Those are all examples of 2 different dog breeds that have been bred together.  The hybrid mix results in a new dog breed name.   … [Read more...]

Best Way To Find Dog Rescue Centers For The Breed Of Dog You’re Interested In

Are you looking to get a specific breed of dog? Or, maybe you have your heart set on a specific breed, but you really want to help a dog in need. Breeders and pet stores are not your only options for finding a dog. There are dog rescue groups which help you find the exact breed you are looking for and give a dog in need a good home! In addition to the official dog rescue groups, here are 5 other places to rescue a purebred dog. Question: Do you know which dog is usually at the top … [Read more...]

How To Research Your Options Before Adopting A Dog

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Will you be getting a dog soon? When you begin your search for a new dog or puppy, there are lots of different places worth considering. The following video provides some basic tips when looking for a new dog: Adoption.  This is a great option.  Some rescue dogs require more time and attention than others.  If you have never had any experience with a pet at all adopting a dog who's had a former home may be a little overwhelming -- especially if it's an older dog. Pet store.  When … [Read more...]

Tips For Adopting Your Dog From A Breeder vs From A Shelter

After you have determined the type of dog you're looking for, the next question you should ask is "Where do I go to get my dog?"First and foremost, do not get your puppy from a pet shop. Often those puppies do not come from reputable breeders.You don't want to start your brand new relationship with your puppy having to deal with socialization issues and other kinds of trauma that puppies in sub-par facilities often experience.You want your first days with your new dog to be joyful and … [Read more...]