Etiquette for Applying to and Dealing with Rescue and Shelter People - Oodles of Doodles Rescue Collective2024-03-28T11:08:04Zhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/forum/topics/etiquette-for-applying-to-and?commentId=2747693%3AComment%3A77141&feed=yes&xn_auth=noThis topic just came up, agai…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2012-12-30:2747693:Comment:1874632012-12-30T15:23:11.981ZLM Fowler - Adminhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/LynneNJ
<p>This topic just came up, again, this week. Every one of our Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet ads clearly say, "Please Read the Entire AD" and "If you do not have what we are asking for, please do not apply, It wastes our time and yours" and "If you match the Needs of the dog, you will be contacted, as we are all volunteers and cannot answer every inquiry." What more can I do? I have an Auto-Responder set so people know that their application has been received. I do answer many of the many, many…</p>
<p>This topic just came up, again, this week. Every one of our Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet ads clearly say, "Please Read the Entire AD" and "If you do not have what we are asking for, please do not apply, It wastes our time and yours" and "If you match the Needs of the dog, you will be contacted, as we are all volunteers and cannot answer every inquiry." What more can I do? I have an Auto-Responder set so people know that their application has been received. I do answer many of the many, many inquiries that come in asking things like, "Is she still available?" or "Why does he need a fenced yard when all my other dogs have been fine without one?" Where is the fine line between being nice and ignoring these questions?</p>
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<p>As someone who has adopted before, I understand not hearing back after filling out such a lengthy application. I can imagine the pins and needles of waiting and not hearing. We are human too! BUT...</p>
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<p>This past week, on Christmas Eve, I received an application for a dog in NC, from a woman in GA. That by itself is not a problem if everything else is there. This particular dog has severe Separation Anxiety and we asked for an adopter who is home all day. This family was out of the home for up to 8 hours a day. We also have in the ad that this dog does not get along with smaller dogs, the applicant has 2 cockapoos. Clearly, they do not qualify. It's Christmas!</p>
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<p>It's Christmas! I am out with my family enjoying the day. Spending time with my sister and her family and trying to leave the rescue alone for one day. This is a 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, volunteer job. I get that and have been living it for almost 4 years. I have dealt with a lot. Those who know me, know what I have been through. We have built something wonderful...twice. For those who don't know what I am talking about, there is some negative press out there about me, this website and our rescue. (Here it is <a href="http://doodlerescue.org/group/rescueinthenews/forum/topics/doodlerescuecollectivecom-url?xg_source=activity" target="_blank">http://doodlerescue.org/group/rescueinthenews/forum/topics/doodlerescuecollectivecom-url?xg_source=activity</a>)</p>
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<p>It has been out there, growing larger and larger, since May 2010 when I resigned from the rescue I built and kicked off THIS website, that I purchased and paid for and created. Because someone puts something on the Internet makes it true, right? Keep searching and researching me and you will ONLY find this by one person and one group. You will not find other's with such a vendetta, you will not find more "dirt" on me, hopefully you WILL find the PROOF and TRUTH that these are total and complete lies (<a href="http://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/group/thedoghouse/forum/topics/truth-has-no-agenda" target="_blank">http://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/group/thedoghouse/forum/topics/truth-has-no-agenda</a>). This link is also posted on our Main Page and on every members page, we have the information that we are not associated with the rescue we began here.</p>
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<p>I don't hide from this nonsense. I have it in the open and not hidden behind closed doors. When asked about it, I am happy to tell you the truth and point you toward the proof it's all lies. When I was asked by an investigative reporter from a radio program, I provided the proof. When my ex-rescue partner was asked for proof of her allegations, she said she didn't have time to scan it all. In 2 years, she didn't have time to scan it all? How about scanning ONE? Nope. (The transcript and audio is in my proof link.)</p>
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<p>Anyway, the GA applicant, because she wasn't contacted to adopt NC - Annie, went researching me and found the slanderous post by my ex-rescue partner, joined her copy website and posted that "<span>Now that I have read this information, I wonder if she even exists." Huh? </span></p>
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<p>Three inquiries, an application and then an email berating us for not considering her wonderful home were received, written back to and "handled" by me, personally. One was on Christmas Eve while I was out with my family. So, while I understand waiting to hear back on an application or inquiry and we would love to see our dogs placed in Perfect Homes, as I explained to this lady, "we received many, many applications and Annie is not in a shelter, but a loving foster home." We are NOT in a hurry to place a dog miles and miles away, even if it was perfect. We are NOT in a hurry to place one of our dogs, just anywhere. We are NOT on the same page as to what the Perfect Home even is, just because you may think so. On top of all this, she fed Beneful and Purina products and those who know me know what I think of that. </p>
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<p>I guess my point is, whether you are dealing with our rescue, another rescue or a shelter, most who do this are volunteers. We try our best to be nice, we try to do what's right and we devote quite a bit of time ensuring the animals in our care, have the VERY BEST home we can possibly find for them. NOT everything you find on the Internet is true, NOT everyone is nice or has the right motives. But WE try to do the best we can and always will.</p>
<p> </p> Jody, it sounds like you are…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-04-21:2747693:Comment:1162262011-04-21T13:29:11.773ZLM Fowler - Adminhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/LynneNJ
<p>Jody, it sounds like you are learning under pressure. How sad for you and that dog.</p>
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<p>You're right, the process is inadequate and at times horrible, but in reality, it's all there is. Every rescue and shelter has different rules but as an adopter, you need to know what you need, too. I have people say they want a Labradoodle, because their neighbor has one and he is cute/well behaved/hypoallergenic/insert other reasons here but they had small children and no fence and work 8…</p>
<p>Jody, it sounds like you are learning under pressure. How sad for you and that dog.</p>
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<p>You're right, the process is inadequate and at times horrible, but in reality, it's all there is. Every rescue and shelter has different rules but as an adopter, you need to know what you need, too. I have people say they want a Labradoodle, because their neighbor has one and he is cute/well behaved/hypoallergenic/insert other reasons here but they had small children and no fence and work 8 hours a day. These dogs are active dogs and smart and will become destructive if not given enough exercise and left alone so many hours. And every one is different, not all are hypoallergenic and it's important that people learn about the breed but sadly, many do not. It's important to take the entire family to meet the dog. It's important to understand that there is a 2 week, honeymoon period before that dog feels safe and at home. </p>
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<p>So many are sitting and waiting and dying in shelters, that I wonder sometimes, too, if we wouldn't be better with better laws and procedures, too. But this is what we have.</p> I agree, Sue and it can be di…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-04-21:2747693:Comment:1161272011-04-21T13:11:31.887ZLM Fowler - Adminhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/LynneNJ
<p>I agree, Sue and it can be difficult, to understand how to deal with and handle adoption issues.</p>
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<p>Especially if you are trying to adopt a dog long distance. I have people, states away who want to adopt one of my dogs and they just don't understand why I won't send them that far. What happens if it doesn't work out? How can all family members, including other pets in the home, meet the dog? </p>
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<p>We rescue that animal, have them in a foster or our own homes and know…</p>
<p>I agree, Sue and it can be difficult, to understand how to deal with and handle adoption issues.</p>
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<p>Especially if you are trying to adopt a dog long distance. I have people, states away who want to adopt one of my dogs and they just don't understand why I won't send them that far. What happens if it doesn't work out? How can all family members, including other pets in the home, meet the dog? </p>
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<p>We rescue that animal, have them in a foster or our own homes and know that pet. I know for me, I don't ever want that dog returned because it is so hard on them after they have bonded with people. To be returned is heartbreaking.</p>
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<p>People need to stop thinking they are adopting "just a dog" and do some research and make sure they are adopting the "right dog" for their family.</p> Please don't confuse shelters…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-04-21:2747693:Comment:1161212011-04-21T04:18:05.705ZToy Poodle Rescuehttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/ToyPoodleRescue
<p>Please don't confuse shelters with rescue organizations. They are very very different.</p>
<p>I would suggest if you have a pet (your cat) already in your home that you need to have another compatable animal join the pack. For that you definately need to work with a rescue that does a home visit with the dog to see the interaction and compatability before moving forward with an adoption</p>
<p>I'm so sorry for your bad experience but going to a shelter and picking out a dog by written words…</p>
<p>Please don't confuse shelters with rescue organizations. They are very very different.</p>
<p>I would suggest if you have a pet (your cat) already in your home that you need to have another compatable animal join the pack. For that you definately need to work with a rescue that does a home visit with the dog to see the interaction and compatability before moving forward with an adoption</p>
<p>I'm so sorry for your bad experience but going to a shelter and picking out a dog by written words rather than physical interation can only be pure luck if it works.</p>
<p>We have Poodles that like certain other Poodles and not others and that is the same species and breed, animals are just like people some we like and many we don't.</p>
<p>Good luck finding a compatible companion.</p>
<p>Sue.<br/>Toy Poodle Rescue<br/><a href="http://www.toypoodlerescue.net">www.toypoodlerescue.net</a></p>
<p> </p> Sue, I empathize with you abo…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-03-22:2747693:Comment:1104232011-03-22T14:06:35.593ZDr. Judith P. LaVorgnahttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/DrJudithPLaVorgna
<p>Sue, I empathize with you about the weariness. It is no easy work to match a dog with the right family. Over the years I have come to think that all of our rescue applications should include an introductory page that tells people why we may adopt out and why we may not, the good news and the bad news...and all of that is about the best match for a dog in need and a family in "want". If we say, fence needed, we mean, fence needed, if we say no leaving a dog outside all day that is what we…</p>
<p>Sue, I empathize with you about the weariness. It is no easy work to match a dog with the right family. Over the years I have come to think that all of our rescue applications should include an introductory page that tells people why we may adopt out and why we may not, the good news and the bad news...and all of that is about the best match for a dog in need and a family in "want". If we say, fence needed, we mean, fence needed, if we say no leaving a dog outside all day that is what we mean, if we say this dog may not be good with children, don't think about how cute the dog is...think about putting the children and the dog at risk.</p>
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<p>I guess we are eager to place and almost always surprised with a new dog moving into rescue, sometimes overwhelming, and mostly, all of us are volunteers...with our own families and our own home dogs, and work place issues too. Given that scenario, somehow we must be upfront right from the beginning of the process so that rescue organizations and those wanting to adopt are on the same page. What would be interesting is if so many of us could come up with that one page agreement and then apply it universally as best we could. Reality based...this dog could pee on your couch, this dog may need at least two weeks to adapt to your family, this dog cannot be tied outside, this dog could be afraid of strangers... ARE YOU READY AND PREPARED TO BRING THIS DOG HOME. Likewise the list of The dog you adopt may have no issues whatsoever when it transitions to your home, brushing, bathing, and grooming are part of responsible dog ownership, yes, this dog may be used to sleeping in the master bedroom, possibly this dog is used to sleeping in it's crate....I can't really say all the good things, but you know what I mean. </p>
<p>Maybe Lynne could start a page here that all of us could contribute to and then enourage rescues to copy it as their frontspiece in adopting. Reality based and highly useable. Sure some people still may not get it, but if they need to read it and sign it, possibly SOME of the issues we face in saying "No" would be erased, because they know we mean business, we know our dogs, we know their needs, AND we are their ombudspeople, the dog cannot speak for itself. Oh, I so hear you. Judy </p> This is an excellent post!
Af…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-03-22:2747693:Comment:1103442011-03-22T13:03:03.313ZToy Poodle Rescuehttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/ToyPoodleRescue
<p>This is an excellent post!</p>
<p>After having volunteered for a rescue group that charges to fill out an application (disgusting) and to surrender a dog (totally wrong) and seeing that most of the applications ended up in the trash I made sure that our application is so detailed that we know immediately if it is a match for the particular dog they are applying for. The biggest problem we have is the applicant applies for a dog that they do not match the requirements of a dog or incomplete…</p>
<p>This is an excellent post!</p>
<p>After having volunteered for a rescue group that charges to fill out an application (disgusting) and to surrender a dog (totally wrong) and seeing that most of the applications ended up in the trash I made sure that our application is so detailed that we know immediately if it is a match for the particular dog they are applying for. The biggest problem we have is the applicant applies for a dog that they do not match the requirements of a dog or incomplete applications. It gets to the point that we just don't have the time to respond and we also question why they would apply for a dog that needs a fenced in yard when they don't have one? It becomes draining to the point when I do receive a fully filled out application that matches the needs of the dog I am excited and surprised! The main thing people leave off their applications is their age, they feel that it is not relevant but in the dog world it is absolutely relevant. We don't want to place a dog into a home where the dog may out live the owner and have to get re-homed all over again. That goes against everything rescue does.</p>
<p>Most people apply for a dog they have 'seen' but have no idea if we are a reputable rescue. Only work with rescue groups that do it right or you could have a problem down the road. Make sure the rescue group does home visits and brings the dog to your home, if they don't want to see where the dog is going to be homed, do they really care about this dog? If this was your dog being placed wouldn't you want the rescue group making sure your dog is going into a clean and caring home? We know other Poodle rescue groups who are too lazy to go and do a home visit!</p>
<p>The abuse we receive when we have to decline an application for a certain dog as well is brutal, I have had people personally verbally attack me, family members berate me, or have shown up at meet and greets to confront me. It never changed the outcome and they did not get a dog from me and now never will! </p>
<p>I work full time and come home and sit down at my desk for about 5 hours, plus I have to groom all our Poodles and do home visits, my life is given to saving these Poodles so when someone is disrespectful that does not bode well with me. </p>
<p>Best Advice for potential adopters</p>
<p>Before you start working with a rescue, check them out see what previous adopter experience's were, most reputable rescues have a website where you can go and look and read who they are and how they work. </p>
<p>Be prepared to work with the rescue to find the best match for you, so many want to adopt a dog/Poodle for the way it looks and looks in a Poodle can be changed,or they want to re-produce the dog they just lost in color and looks and we highly advise against that as temperament is so much more important.</p>
<p>Be honest, a rescue group will stop working with you if you are not honest with them. </p>
<p>Want to work with a group that supports your adoption not just today or tomorrow but years down the road.</p>
<p>THAT is a good rescue group!</p>
<p>Thank you. Sue.<br/>Toy Poodle Rescue<br/><a href="http://www.toypoodlerescue.net" target="_blank">www.toypoodlerescue.net</a> </p> Great points, Judy. I really…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-01-09:2747693:Comment:975392011-01-09T14:59:02.435ZLM Fowler - Adminhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/LynneNJ
Great points, Judy. I really hope people interested in adopting a rescue dog take all these points to heart. It is so hard on the dog to be shuffled from place to place. Dogs get attached to their "people" and it really does hurt the dog to be left, returned or forgotten.
Great points, Judy. I really hope people interested in adopting a rescue dog take all these points to heart. It is so hard on the dog to be shuffled from place to place. Dogs get attached to their "people" and it really does hurt the dog to be left, returned or forgotten. And another question a potent…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-01-09:2747693:Comment:975302011-01-09T14:43:24.474ZDr. Judith P. LaVorgnahttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/DrJudithPLaVorgna
<p>And another question a potential adoptive parent might expect....Have you ever given up an animal and returned it or taken it to a shelter? Please explain.</p>
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<p>In order to protect a dog in foster looking for a forever home the rescue organization must make sure that potential owners are not simply looking for that 'honeymoon period with a dog, are able to handle the behaviors of a new member of the family should some of those be worrisome or unsettling, OR, that all of the…</p>
<p>And another question a potential adoptive parent might expect....Have you ever given up an animal and returned it or taken it to a shelter? Please explain.</p>
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<p>In order to protect a dog in foster looking for a forever home the rescue organization must make sure that potential owners are not simply looking for that 'honeymoon period with a dog, are able to handle the behaviors of a new member of the family should some of those be worrisome or unsettling, OR, that all of the family are on the same page so there are no surprises about the new companion and it's lifetime destiny with the forever family. Giving up a previous animal may not preclude new owners for this specific dog, but important questions and answers must be discussed. We do know, for whatever reason, there is some small segment of the population who have what I call, "Revolving door relationships with dogs". The excitement turns to everyday responsibilities, those sometimes become overwhelming, newness wears off, an accident in the living room causes disdain and worry and anger. Those are families who may adopt and love for a while, then return to a shelter putting the dog at risk again. Thus, making sure this dog will remain both loved and secure over it's lifetime is an ever present consideration in its placement. Many shelters make sure that the family understands that if the dog is ever in this situation, the dog is to be returned to the rescue group opposed to a local or county shelter or humane society. Potential adopters must think with their heart's and their mind.</p> WHAT To EXPECT
You may have d…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-01-09:2747693:Comment:974922011-01-09T13:54:04.873ZLM Fowler - Adminhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/LynneNJ
<p>WHAT To EXPECT</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">You may have decided that you would like to adopt from a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle rescue. However, you need to understand that there is more to the adoption process then simply contacting a rescue and informing them you are interested. Rescues will not hand over their dogs to just anyone. Furthermore, adopting is not free, you will be required to fill out an application form, and the process is not…</span></p>
<p>WHAT To EXPECT</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 15px; color: #333333; line-height: 22px;">You may have decided that you would like to adopt from a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle rescue. However, you need to understand that there is more to the adoption process then simply contacting a rescue and informing them you are interested. Rescues will not hand over their dogs to just anyone. Furthermore, adopting is not free, you will be required to fill out an application form, and the process is not generally quick.<br/><br/>Why must I pay and wait to adopt from a doodle rescue? Shouldn't the rescue be happy that one of their dogs is going to a loving home? It is important that you do not misunderstand the intentions of rescues. The fee you are charged is usually to help them cover the vet costs of the pooch you wish to own. As far the waiting period is concerned, the organization takes the time to review the form you have filled out so they can learn about you, your lifestyle, your living environment, and dog experience.<br/><br/>Essentially, the volunteers simply want to ensure that your lifestyle is compatible with doodles, and also to match you with the best dog they have available. In fact, in many cases, a long wait is the result of waiting until the right rescue dog is available for the person wanting to adopt.<br/><br/>Anyone interested in adopting a doodle or any other animal through rescue, must be prepared for baggage. You can not know what that dog has been through or the experiences he has seen or felt. It requires time, patience and understanding to build the bond of trust, friendship and unconditional love. If you read through some of the posts in Rescued Doodles, "Stories" you will start to understand that pet adoption requires patience, compassion and COMMITMENT. Rescue is not for everyone.<br/><br/>You need to ask yourself if you are truly willing to make this kind of commitment and expect that there may be issues that could require schedule and/or lifestyle changes. The adjustment period for these dogs takes more time than most. These dogs need --Time to trust--Time to be certain--Time to love. See "Only A Rescue Mom Would Know" discussion for details.<br/><br/>Rescue, while rewarding and wonderful should never be a snap decision. That's another reason why an indepth application process is essential to ensuring that the potential adopter is not jumping into a situation they may not be able to handle. Your rescuing a "forever friend" should never be because it's the latest" fad" or something "everyone else does" because it's fashionable or "politically correct". You simply must be ready, willing and prepared to give your all to that animal, just as if you were adopting a child.<br/><br/>What information should I expect to find on a doodle rescue application form? Karen, Lynne and myself present the following guide. Requested details may vary between rescues, but the following list of information should give you an idea:<br/><br/>Name, address, phone numbers, email<br/>Your age<br/>Details about other family members you may live with, including the number of children under 18 years of age.<br/>Is there a sex of dog you prefer?<br/>Is there a size of doodle you prefer (I.E. standard, medium, miniature)?<br/>Would you adopt a dog from a doodle rescue who has health problems or is of a senior age (10 plus)?<br/>Have you owned a dog or a doodle before?<br/>Do you currently own any dogs, cats, or other family pets?<br/>What type of home do you live in (I.E. house, apartment, etc.)<br/>If you have a backyard is it fully fenced and secure? How high is the fence?<br/>Will someone always be at home with the dog? If not, how often and how long would the doodle be left alone?<br/>Where will the dog sleep at night time?<br/>Are you aware of how much it costs to maintain the health and care of a doodle (I.E. grooming, annual vet checkups, food, etc.)<br/>The name and contact information of your chosen veterinarian<br/>Name and contact information of the person who will be your reference, and how you know them (I.E. friend, relative, vet, etc.)<br/>What will happen to the dog if you"1. have to move 2. change your job 3. get married 4. get divorced, etc?<br/><br/>There may be other questions that the doodle rescue will ask on the application form, but now you should have a good idea of what to expect. You may be surprised at some of the questions, but remember that the rescue is not trying to attack or intimidate you. They simply want to ensure that their doodles are going to a good family who will care and love them for the rest of their lives.</span></p> Thank you Lynne. You provided…tag:www.doodlerescuecollective.com,2011-01-08:2747693:Comment:974412011-01-08T23:34:07.195ZBeverly Zeroogianhttp://www.doodlerescuecollective.com/profile/BeverlyZeroogian
Thank you Lynne. You provided some very useful information and insight as to why one can be 'rejected'. It takes time and tenacity to adopt, and we have to remember that everyone involved is just looking for a good forever fit.
Thank you Lynne. You provided some very useful information and insight as to why one can be 'rejected'. It takes time and tenacity to adopt, and we have to remember that everyone involved is just looking for a good forever fit.