gsd rescue(acceptable conditions for refusal adoption/fostering) - Page 1

i,d be very grateful if i could have opinions on wot yu good shepherd people consider as acceptable reasons for refusal to adopt or foster a gsd from, a gsd rescue centre.I wish to hear from gsd rescues/ppl.here in the uk but will appreciate views from our overseas compatriots too.Thank yu in advance for your input n please be respectful n good mannered even if some views are not to your liking.Carole S.

I'm a foster home with a GSD Rescue, and I get the final say in who adopts my foster dogs.  I don't have to have a specific reason for not adopting to someone.  If I have a bad feeling about them or don't feel they'd be a good match for my foster, I'll turn them down for that dog.  The rescue might choose to adopt a different dog to them, though.  

I won't adopt to someone who has taken their dog to the pound in the last 10 or so years.  (not strays, their own dog)  I won't adopt to someone whose dogs aren't on heart worm prevention, since here in TX heart worm is so prevalent.  If someone owns a dog or cat but can't give a vet reference, I won't adopt to them.  I won't adopt to someone who plans to keep the dog tied up or on a chain, and I won't adopt to someone who wants a dog that lives outside and never comes in the house.  

I have done rescue for years and here is my criteria:  first and foremost the dog and the people need to be a good match;  the people need to have a secure fenced yard;  I like it if someone is home with the dog but if that is not possible the dog needs to be able to stay alone, not all dogs can be alone all day while someone is at work,  I want the adopter to have a training and bonding plan in place before the dog is adopted;  of course good veterinary care needs to be given along with a recommended good diet for the animal and the dog is not to go to any other home without me being informed when and where and why.  I want to know about any other animals in the household to be sure if the dog being adopted gets along with other dogs in home and if there are any kids or cats.  Not all dogs are suitable for cats or kids for that matter and dont want dog put in backyard because they don't get along with other dog(s) in household.  An introduction needs to take place before I approve a rescue to go to a home with other kids, cats or other dogs.  That is pretty much it except I have them fill out an adoption questionaire and commit to the dog being in that home for the rest of the dogs life .  Nan

Dependant on the dog.
An old dog doesnt have the same needs as a youngster. So it is variable Carole on each dog.

For eg;  a young dog needs a good walk every day.
or another eg; An older dog wouldnt necessarily attempt to jump  a low fence.

So it is totally dependant upon the dog and the home.

Hope this helps Carole.

thank you very much to the three peeps.that have given their views on this subject.A couple of things have me confused.FENCES.....would one warrant a definite refusal for a young pup or would that person be given time,say 2-4 wks.to get bigger more secure fencing n the be able to have a pup from that rescue n i understand that not all sheps.will accept another into their pack n that an introduction needs to be arranged.Also the subject of a young boiterous pup with an older shepherd,ppl.who live in flats as opposed to a house with a garden n older ppl.wishing to adopt a youngster.All your views n your experience in rescue is much appreciated.i,m looking forward to hearing more opinions.thank u all so much.Carole S.

leiasmum Are there only 2 things that are conditions with in your rescue for refusal for adoption/fostering

No , they were examples.  Please read the post again. I will just reiterate, I said 'young dog' not puppy.  The amount of exercise needed depends on the age and energy levels of each individual dog.

There are no hard and fast rules, it is decided on each individual application, and a home visit.

We have somebody who is adopting a dog from us, who upon homecheck their garden isnt secure enough, the fence is being fixed this weekend, and pending a final check, they will adopt next week.

Sorry if my answers are boring and arent controversial enough.

For me personally there is no categorical list that would fit all situations.
 
Some things that would rule out at the point of enquiry: History of ‘getting rid of dogs’ ie, not keeping for lifetime. Unsuitable property small flat, property without secure fencing, Although time would certainly be allowed for adequate fencing to be erected if that were the only problem.
 
A variety of elements that come into play for me but not all are 'rule out's, though some definitely are:
Experience of dog ownership and history of what happened to those dogs (did they remain with the family their whole lives? Did they *have* to get rid of a previous dog?). Another factor would be the type of dogs they have had experience with, and the particular dog (and temperament/background) they were wishing to foster or adopt (easy/medium/difficult) comparative to their past experience.  Level of commitment in providing exercise and training come wind, rain and shine. A real understanding that German shepherds are and should be active dogs and being prepared to undertake activities with their dog.  Continuous socialisation.  All members of household must want to be involved in activities with the dog.  Children/visiting children and how sensible they are.  Property/garden/fencing/location. Is the property suitable (ie, not a small flat). Will the dog live in the house? Is the front garden fenced and gated. Children will leave front doors open, doesn’t matter how often you tell them.  Not too houseproud.  Shepherds SHED.  Conversely are kids toys and electrical wires left everywhere – is it safe for a dog?  Can the dog get away from the kids for respite?  Do the kids understand that a dog is not their plaything? Are finances able to support owning a dog? Ages of existing dog and adoptive dog. How introduction goes with existing dog. How often dog might have to spend home alone. Is the age of the adopter suitable to the temperament/age/strength of the dog they wish to adopt?
 
Good old fashioned ‘gut’ feeling when you are at the home and chatting. And then there are just certain ‘types’ of people who I wouldn’t want to home any type of dog to, ever,  in all honesty.

thank yu Abby,most of the posts tho.not many are on par with wot i have in mind if i had to homecheck.Now here,s a hypothetical case.A person who is already a fosterer for a gsd rescue has older sheps(rescues,ages not known)n wishes to adopt a puppy.Fence is only 3ft high ,obviously this can be remedied.This person has fostered problem sheps n helped to rehabilitate them so they are suitable for rehoming.Would u Abby or any of yu good ppl.who have answered, allow this person to adopt a puppy?Your answers would be gratefully received.thank yu.BTW ,Abby i,m disappointed u dinna agree with me with regards to that pup,s coat type on other thread.Couldnt get it to reply so done it on here as its my thread.Hope yu are well.Chiki sends licks n kisses.Carole S.

Carole S, can i ask some further questions regards this hypothetical case.
To have been refused it can not be as simple as you have portrayed here there has to be further underlying issues. 

1. Is this person financially sound to take on another dog
2. Have they the time to take out the young dog when a little older who will need a different exercise regime to the older ones
3. Do they have the space for an addition to an existing pack

As this *case* has been blown out of all proportion by a small group including yourself to the point of getting beyond reason you have to ask yourself the question, would anyone be refused an adoption soley on the case that a fence was not adequate as you have given above. This can be overcome and in many cases if this is the only obstacle is.

Adoption is not about 1 thing leading to refusal, it is a catalogue of points along with gut instinct. I appreciate what you mention regards fostering and involvement but this is not an instant approval to adopt.