When choosing a rescue centre dog:

• It can help if you make out a list beforehand with any definite preferences such as age, size, sex, activity level, coat type, compatibility with children, other dogs and so forth. This could help you to avoid making an impulsive mistake which could be very distressing for both you and the dog.
• Check out opening hours at the shelter and pay a visit; allow plenty of time, as you'll need it! Weekends and holidays are usually busy, so if possible try to go along on a weekday.
• When you arrive, you'll generally be interviewed by a member of staff and asked to fill in a questionnaire; this can be pretty detailed and may sometimes seem rather personal. It is aimed at ensuring you can offer the right sort of home as well as identifying the sort of dog that would best suit you and your lifestyle.
• Spend as much time as you can with each dog so you can make a careful and considered decision rather than a snap judgement. As well as making your own observations, ask questions about his background, any assessments that have been made, his personality and so forth, to help give you as full a picture as possible.
• If you do meet a dog you feel is 'the one' don't expect to walk away with him there and then. You might need to arrange for a home visit first.

Add your rescue centre here!

Businesses, contact us to advertise your centre on yourdog.co.uk, click here to submit your details.