Frequent Questions Asked About Adopting A Dog

 If I want a Dog what do I do?

 Read through all the information on the Website and ask yourself whether you are prepared to give a home to a dog.  Remember that most dogs Labradors around 12 – 15 years.  They need a lot of attention, especially in the early years.

So I have carefully thought about adopting a Labrador, and want one, what do I do next?

Go to the Contacts Page on the Website and send an email to your Area Co-ordinator they will send you an application form. ............contacts

Is there anything I can do while waiting for the form?

Yes think about what dog your want.  Do you want a male or a female?  Do you want a Black, Chocolate or Yellow dog?  Do you want a young dog or an older one?  Are you experienced with dogs, could you handle a boisterous one?

When I have completed my form and sent it on, what happens next?

A local helper will be in contact to arrange a home visit.  The helper will come and assess your home and see whether you are suitable to adopt a dog.  At Labrador Rescue, the welfare of the dog is of prime concern and we need to be convinced that the home is appropriate. 

If I work full time, can I have a dog?

It depends on whether there is someone home who can look after the dog.  A rehomed dog needs a lot of love and attention so we would not place a dog in home where it would be left all day.  Our guidelines are that a dog should not be left for more than 3-4 hours during the day.

How long will it take me to get a dog?

Unfortunately we cannot give exact forecasts on the availability of dogs.  We do not have dogs rescue centres but try a rehome a dog from the old home to the new one; this reduces the amount of stress on the animal.  However, in general, the less specific you are on your particular wants (i.e. any dog, male of female, up to the age of 4) the quicker a dog will come along.  

Can I change my mind?

If you change your mind, or get a dog from another source, please let us know immediately so that we can take your details off our database. 

What will I know about the dog offered?

We will give you as much details of the dog as possible.  How old, what colour, how much training it has had, how big it is, its personality etc.

Am I likely to bump into its previous owners when out walking?

This should not happen because dogs are rehomed at least 20 miles away from its previous owners. 

What happens if the dog does not settle in?

Sometimes the dogs reveal traits that we were not aware of, and in this case, we would take the dog away and rehome it with another family.  We would then look for another dog for you.

If I have a problem whom do I turn to?

We do recommend dog-training classes; people with dog problems rarely train their animals.  However, that said your helper is always available for advice.  Once a dog is placed with you will be contacted in the next few days to see if all is well.  Then a couple of weeks later a follow up visit will take place to ensure the dog is settling in well.

How often should I walk my dog?

The amount of exercise varies according to age.  But as a bench-mark you should take your dog for 2 good walks a day and also allow it to go into the garden for natural relief. 

How much should I feed my dog and how often?

Yet again there is not definitive.  You will get details, with your dog, of what it has been fed in the past.  However, it is recommended that you feed your dog with dried complete food.  Two small meals, one in the morning and one in the evening.

How much does it cost?

We ask for a minimum donation of £125 for a young dog, decreasing in cost for older dogs.

Is there anything else I should remember?

Yes always come to the Annual Dogs Party in Rickmansworth.  This is usually held on the first Sunday in September; keep an eye on the Website for the exact date.

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