What does the puppy and dog adoption process entail? Firstly… Owoohoo! Don't even get us started on how HAPPY we are to see you here! Secondly, we're so excited about you wanting to adopt a dog (or dogs!) because many loveable souls in animal shelters deserve to live their best lives in a forever home filled with love.
Lastly, we know how intimidating the doggy adoption process is. The requirements for would-be dog owners make finding and bringing a new dog home even scarier, right?! So, without further adieu, here is our guide to dog adoption!
Pssst! If you're NEW to owning a dog, give Valgray's guide for new pet owners a read.
Valgray for Dogs adoption tip 1: Adjust your expectations
Visit different local animal shelters, dog homes and rescues organisations multiple times to get more familiar with the dogs before deciding.
Valgray for Dogs adoption tip 2: Keep note of dogs that catch your eye
Write down the dogs' names, descriptions and current homes and arrange to see the dogs who pulled at your heartstrings most.
During your visits, you'll see a lot of puppies and dogs, all of whom need a loving home.
Valgray for Dogs adoption tip 3: Don't rush
Spend as much time with the dogs as possible to get to know them.
We know you are eager to adopt an adorable pooch (like right now!), but being a pet parent means a lifelong commitment and friendship with your pooch, so be patient when searching for the dog destined to be yours.
Valgray for Dogs adoption tip 4: Reserve judgement
Don't rule out dogs just because they seem too energetic. Shelters usually confine dogs for long periods, which builds up energy and makes them seem hyperactive.
You've FINALLY found the one (...and two, three and four—we won't judge)! Now it's time to ask all the important questions before taking your dog home.
You shouldn't leave a shelter without asking about a dog's previous health history and vaccination records because this information will help you understand your dog's care and health needs.
Questions to gather information on your dog's health history
Years ago, some dog charities would let a dog go to their new home straight away, but today, it's standard for most rescue organisations not to allow dogs to go with a new owner before:
1. A full health check-upTo ensure your dog has no underlying problems and is completely healthy before you take them home with you.
2. Inoculations update
Dogs need vaccinations and regular boosters to prevent a host of illnesses and diseases, including 'core vaccines' for:
A contagious and often fatal severe viral disease. Distemper affects a dog's breathing, digestive system and nervous system.
Puppy vaccinations | A minimum of 3 doses between age 6-16 weeks |
Dog vaccinations (older than 16 weeks) |
2 doses given 3-4 weeks apart |
Canine Adenovirus 1 (CAV-1) is a viral disease that can be fatal. CAV-1 affects the liver and other organs. Canine Adenovirus 2 (CAV-2) causes breathing problems and is one cause of kennel cough.
CAV-1 inoculations for canine hepatitis depend on the vaccine.
CAV-2 for kennel cough
Puppy vaccinations | 3 dose minimum, between 6-16 weeks old. |
Dog vaccinations (older than 16 weeks) |
2 doses 3-4 weeks apart |
A contagious and often fatal viral disease. Parvovirus (CPV), aka Parvo, causes severe vomiting and diarrhea.
Puppy vaccinations | At least 3 doses between 6-16 weeks old. |
Dog vaccinations (older than 16 weeks) |
2 doses, usually 3-4 weeks apart |
A fatal viral disease that's easily transmissible to humans. Rabies attacks the nervous system and often causes extreme fear and aggression.
Puppy vaccinations | 1 dose from 3 months old onwards |
Dog vaccinations (older than 16 weeks) |
1 dose |
Canine parainfluenza virus (C.P.I.V.) is a highly contagious respiratory viral disease that causes flu-like symptoms and coughing.
Puppy vaccinations | Given at 6-8 weeks, with 1 shot every 3-4 weeks until 12-14 weeks old. |
Dog vaccinations (older than 16 weeks) |
1 dose |
Valgray for Dogs adoption tip 5: Dogs need vaccine boosters
Canine distemper boosters Puppies: After 12 months
Dogs: Every 3 years or as recommended.CAV-1 and CAV-2 boosters Puppies: 12 months after initial treatments
Dogs: Every 3 years oras directed.CPV boosters Puppies: After 12 months
Dogs: Every 3 years or as recommended.Rabies boosters Rabies 1 year: Yearly for puppies and dogs
Rabies 3 years: 2nd vaccination after 12 months, and boosters every 3 yearsParainfluenza boosters 1-year boosters and re-vaccination every 3 years.
3. Sterilisation
You may have to wait a little longer to take your darling dog home after spaying (female) or neutering (male). Dog shelters do this to:
You're probably wondering why the wait for sterilisation is necessary. To prevent unwanted fur kid pregnancies, obviously!
During your visits to local animal shelters, you'll see loads of puppies and older dogs who need homes. If dog charities don't stop the cycle of unwanted pregnancies that result in abandoned puppies, they become part of the problem! There are already too many precious pups in this world looking for homes. So, waiting a few extra weeks (usually around 2-4 weeks) isn't that big a deal.
Obviously, we're team ADOPT, and we believe everyone should experience the absolute joy of giving a dog a second (or, in some cases, first) chance at having a great life in a loving home.
So, Valgray's pledged to gift every dog successfully adopted from F.A.L.L.E.N. Angels Pet Rescue a gorgeous, easy-to-clean collar with personalised, engraved name tags because they deserve the very best in life!
Haven't considered visiting F.A.L.L.E.N. Angels Pet Rescue to find a dog? It's just 30 km north of Cape Town and well worth a visit! Contact info@fallenangels.org.za to arrange a visit, or view their website at www.fallenangels.org.za to see some fabulous floofy friends waiting for someone to find them and take them home.
That's our guide to dog adoption! We hope it makes finding and adopting a dog less intimidating. Next is our blog on How To Measure Your Dog's Neck Using Everyday Household Items.
Please note this blog is for information purposes only. Valgray for Dogs always encourages dog owners to consult a veterinarian before making any decisions regarding canine care, meals, medical issues, oral care, training and behavioural conditions.
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By shopping with Valgray, you're not only selecting a brand, but you're also becoming a part of the Valgray family and embracing a lifestyle centered around animal welfare, supreme comfort, and impeccable fashion. Our dog collars and accessories are locally produced to radiate elegance and coziness, ensuring that your furry companion is not only the most stylish but also the happiest pup around. We recognize that our customers consider their dogs as family members, which is why we design our dog products with emphasis on quality, style, and comfort. To learn more about our exceptional products, browse our online store or alternatively, reach out to the Valgray team. We're eager to have a conversation with you and share our fashionable products!
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