The following information applies to dogs in both shelters and foster care, but usually dogs in foster care have been spruced up.
·Shelters are loud, smelly.
·Dogs will be dirty, matted, may have been newly neutered and or ill with kennel cough (not contagious to people).
·When the dog is brought to you: The dog should go right up to you with a loose wagging body and tail. The dog should be happy to see all members of the family.
·The dog should be more focused on you than the environment. It is natural for the dog to be focused on its foster mom or shelter volunteer. This is good information for you, because how the dog interacts with its caregiver will be a window into how it will act once it is accustomed to living with you.
·Try to get the dog to interact with you in a playful manner, to ensure you like the play style.
·Then ask the dog to settle on your lap or near your body. Stroke slow and soothingly down the dog’s back or chest.
·You should not notice any fearful behavior or shyness towards anyone in your family.
·Take the dog for a short walk. Dogs in rescue usually do not know how to walk politely on leash; they may pull, but the dog should not drag you and should pay attention to you. You want the dog to notice that you are at the other end of the leash. If you stop walking, the dog should also.
·Male dogs tend to lift their leg on surfaces, but should not be so fixated on the behavior that it is all he cares about. He should not lift his leg on you or other people.
We ask that you look past the matted fur, the dirt, and the smell to try to see the “diamond in the ruff.” Get to know this dog and think of him/her as a member of your family. It is often an emotional decision and that is okay. Mutt Match will be on call to help answer any questions or concerns you have.
