Thinking About Adopting?
Adopting Really Does Save Lives!
Thank you for thinking about adopting a dog from Axarquia Animal Rescue (AAR).
Here are a few things for you to consider before going ahead with an adoption – just contact us for any further advice and if you want to proceed with adopting – we hope you do if it is right for you!!!
You can find out about our adoption process here.
Visit our galleries to see all our wonderful dogs and puppies who are looking for their forever homes.
Thinking About Adopting a Dog or a Puppy?
Having a dog can be the most wonderful experience and so rewarding.
However, it is important to realise that it is a very big commitment, demanding time, money and care.
Are you going through any changes such as a house move, career change, marriage/divorce or new baby? Dogs and pups very easily pick up on stress or upheaval and can become unsettled and anxious. It may be best to wait until your life is more settled before adopting.
A Dog or a Puppy?
Puppies are lovely but can be a lot of work. Be prepared for months of disruption, a bit of chaos and mess but a lot of fun, laughter and love. Remember that puppies need a lot of time and attention from Day 1. They cannot be left alone for longer than they can ‘cross their legs’ and they will depend on you 100% for everything from food to emotional care. Puppies need almost constant supervision to stop them chewing, peeing and potentially hurting themselves. They will need gentle but consistent training. All puppies are cute as buttons but quickly grow up. A puppy can become a rambunctious and difficult dog if not given effective obedience training.
An older dog is often calmer and more relaxing to be around.
Older dogs 'do what it says on the tin!' Their personality is already shaped so there should be no surprises in the future.
Older dogs tend to have better manners, are usually house trained and are not as destructive as a pup.
An older dog is more likely to be content on his own whilst you go out for a while, whereas a puppy is more likely to be constantly looking for you.
Do You Have Time For A Dog?
Think about whether your lifestyle is suitable for adopting a dog or a puppy. Do you work full time? Dogs are social animals and as a general rule happiest when they are with their humans. If they are regularly left for long periods of time they can become very insecure and anxious which can lead to problems. There are options if you work full time – can you take your dog to work? Can you consider an older dog, or two to keep each other company? Can you get a dog walker to pop in during the day? Could you use doggy day care? Do you have a friend who could dog sit? If you have no option but to leave the dog alone for hours each day then perhaps a dog just isn’t for you at the moment. You could consider a cat who will be much more independent or even volunteer to be a Kennel Angel with AAR and help walk and socialise our kennel dogs in your free time.
How much time will you have to spend with the dog or pup? Young dogs or active breeds need a significant amount of exercise. A more mature, calmer dog is a better choice for busy people. Dogs need mental stimulation rather than just a quick wee in the garden. Remember some breeds need much more grooming or exercise or mental stimulation than others. It is important to be realistic about the amount of time you will have for your new arrival. Are you backwards and forwards to another country? If so have you thought about fostering or becoming a Travel Buddy? We are always looking for long and short term fosterers.
Can You Afford A Dog?
AAR asks for a donation when you adopt an animal, 110 euros for a puppy and 180 for a neutered adult. This donation then allows us to go on and help more animals in need. It covers all their jabs, rabies, chip, passport, blood tests, and neutering if they are old enough. If you are adopting from outside Spain, you will also have to factor in the transport costs (we will make all the arrangements for travel on your behalf). Once the dog is yours it will need annual booster injections and if you adopt a puppy you will need to get it neutered when it is old enough. You’ll need to make arrangements for your dog’s care when you go on holiday and kennelling can be expensive. Don’t forget your dog will need toys, bedding, lead/harness, food, treats, bowls etc. Most dogs really do benefit from doggie training sessions, which is another financial and time commitment to factor in.
Although there is a financial cost to owning a dog, there is no doubt your new arrival will pay you back with love and laughter. It’s very special having someone that can make you smile every single day.
Have You Owned A Dog Before?
Do you have experience in the type of dog you want – a Chihuahua is very different from a German Shepherd and their needs are very different. Is your dog going to be big and powerful? It is essential that you have a good grasp of how to train and work with a dog that you may be unable to control with physical strength. Little dogs are still dogs despite their small size.
We have a number of guides that can help with behavioural and training issues.
Do You Have Other Pets?
How is your existing dog with other dogs they meet? Are they dominant? Better with males than females? Will your resident cat accept a dog in the home? Will a new dog be similar in size and strength to your existing pet? Do you have livestock that may not be a good fit with a hunting breed? A home with two large males will probably be better suited to having a female rather than a third male.
What Type Of Dog/Pup Is Best For You?
Consider the energy levels of the dog – it needs to be a match with you and your family. Are you out and about a lot and plan for the dog to be with you the whole time? Will you only be able to walk the dog 2 or 3 times a day? Do you live in an apartment – if you do then a smaller breed may be a better fit although you will still have to walk them a few times a day. Do you have secure outside space?
Do You Have Children?
One of the most special relationships there can be is with a child and their dog, but careful thought and planning needs to go into adopting when you have children. A puppy is a lot more time consuming and difficult than a mature dog. If you are a busy family do you have time to house train a pup? Most families should consider a more mature dog whose size and temperament is known.
Some teenagers may quickly grow tired of getting up to walk the dog before they go to school!
Remember you will have to continually supervise the children with the dog. The most placid dog is capable of biting if surprised or hurt. Whatever age the children are, the quality of their relationship with your new dog will depend largely on how well both the children and dog are taught to treat each other with respect.
Next Steps
If you would like to move forward with adopting then please contact us. We will work with you to identify the best type of animal that matches your needs and lifestyle. We will put you in direct contact with the fosterers and they can share more info on the dog’s character and personality. If you are local, then you can obviously come along and meet some of the dogs that interest you. If you are not local, don't worry! We will send you lots of information, photos and videos of dogs that interest you.
It is so important that you have given the decision to adopt the thought it needs. It is a big step and a lifelong commitment to that animal. If the time is right for you to adopt then prepare yourself for excitement, fun, laughter and most important lots of love!