Need advice in re: pet adoption/rescue

we are interested in adopting a lab from Connecticut Labs4Rescue but not really sure how the process works. i received 2 emails about 2 dogs that we are interested in adopting (i is being fostered in CT and is available now and the other is in LA and will be arriving to CT dec 3rd).

we really want to meet the dog and the dog to meet us prior to agreeing to the adoption. both dogs (aged 2-3) are described to have GREAT personality and are house and crate trained.

PICS 1 & 2 -> Hurricane Rita Victim (LA)
(lab/golden mix) is described as, 'very smart, full of personality and self confidence. he would be marvelous for hikes, playing ball--he LOVES to go after the ball and would probably learn Frisbee quickly bonds quickly, he will need a strong hand in training but will do well if it's made fun, like a border collie in a lab/golden body'


PICS 3 & 4 -> Stray in CT
yellow lab is described as, 'wonderful with kids, dogs and people. He is housetrained, crate trained and is past the chewing stage but still loves to play. He loves to go outside and check things out but settles right down once he is inside. He understands sit and stay but needs training on counter surfing and standing on his hind legs to greet you. (He doesn't jump up- he gently places his paws on your chest!) He rides well in the car and loves to. He's a wonderful dog and the best foster I have ever had'

any advise/suggestion in re: to how to make a decision or what questions to ask of the fosters?

I think it's great that you want to adopt. I will try to give you as much advice/help that I can.

You will probably go and meet the dogs some where. If you do, give them about 1/2 to settle down and get used to you being in the room with them. Some dogs don't 'show' very well at first and need some time to settle down. If there is a foster parent there - ask every question you have. They are usually pretty honest because they want the dog to go to the best home possible for them. You might want to ask how they behave when left alone, how they interact with other dogs and animals, food aggression issues, dominance issues, stuff like that.

Have you filled out an application yet? If so, you have already been approved if they are setting up meetings. If you haven't, you will have to fill out the application. Make sure you have a vet that you plan on using. They will want the name and number.

I hope this helps - Let me know if you have any other questions.

thank you SO much. i haven't received feedback from the rescue organization in re: to my application but 2 of the foster mom's sent me an email.

the 1 (lab mix) that is currently being fostered in LA received 4 applications the same day i submitted mine but the foster felt drawn to mine and wants to speak w/ us first (she even left a long message). the dog is going to be transported to CT on december 3rd.

the foster in CT said that we can visit the dog (yellow lab) anytime. i plan on calling them both tonight.

thanks so much for your advice, i will keep you informed.

Both beautiful dogs...good luck with your decision, and thank you so much for deciding to rescue a dog...I wish there were more people out there like you!

thanks everyone.

i cannot imagine buying a dog when all these poor unfortunate victims are surrended and yearing to be adopted. not only am i totally torn b/t these 2 dogs but someone else i spoke to today gave me the contact info for a woman in MS that recues labs. she has 8 dogs of her own, and fostering 16. all out of the goodness of her heart. god bless her!

i have been approved to foster-to-adopt and plan to visit the yellow lab this weekend. the lab/golden is due to be transported and going to foster care december 3rd.

Keep us posted!!!

That is wonderful that you are looking for a rescue dog!! I work also part time volunteering for a PPRA which is precious pug rescue and adoption and they are also wonderful!! Good for you Keep us posted!!

Denise

i would HIGHLY recommended Labs4Rescue to anyone interested in adopted a lab. they are SO dedicated to what they do and really care about their rescused dogs. they require that a home visit is made prior to fostering/adopting and really take the time to get to know the adopters. this speaks volumes as they are dedicated to what they do and want to ensure that these rescues are placed in loving and caring homes.

the rescue stories that some of these volunteers shared w/ me are heart wrenching.