Chicago Area Dog Rescue and Adoption Organizations

Prior to adopting a rescue dog there are a few things you are going to want to think about. When you get to this point, you will want to have decided that taking on a dog for the next 8-12 years. Where will the dog stay when you are on vacation or away for a couple of days? Here are five other things to consider:

• Type of Dog - Are you looking for a particular type of dog? If you are, then you may have to wait for a while for a dog of the type you want to become available. Instead of looking for one type of dog, have a few on your list remembering that a lot of the dogs are probably mixed breeds.
• Size of Dog - Selecting the right size of dog for your lifestyle helps both you and the dog. Having and 85 pound dog in a one-bedroom apartment is probably not the right fit. You also want to consider your size and strength and the type of dog you can control.
• Exercise Need of Dogs - Some dogs need more exercise than others. Smaller dogs you can play ball with in the house and take for walks around the block. Larger dogs need longer walks and larger backyards to get the proper exercise.
• Sleeping Arrangements - Where will the dog sleep? Typically you start a dog in a kennel and as you learn about the dogs patterns. Will it chew on your shows during the night or will it sleep throughout the night. Most dogs will eventually sleep in the bedroom with their favorite person in the family, usually the one the feeds it. Whether you let them sleep on the bed is up to you.
• Training - Do you know how to train a dog or are you going to need help? Local pet stores usually have a basic training program and their are many dog training classes that will teach you a lot about how to handle your new dog.
• Vet - Do you have a local vet or know where one is? If not, ask your neighbors as everyone will have an opinion. Look for one that is clean and has hours that are available when you are available. Also make a note of where you would go in an emergency.

Other things to think about. Food, Wildlife in the Area, Your Yard, and the people that visit your house.

Here are things to ask your rescue organization before adopting a dog. Most of these should be listed on their website.

• Adoption Fee - there is an adoption fee for most dogs, usually under $300.
• Vet Report - Ask when the dog was to the vet last. All dogs should be checked out for diseases.
• Shots - All shots should be up to date and be included in the Vet Report.
• Neutered - The dog should already be neutered or the adoption fee should include this.
• Chipped - All dogs should already be chipped. A chip is a device put in a dogs shoulder that allows the dog to be identified in case it runs off and gets lost.