‹ Back

A Guide to Making a Heartfelt Connection with a Rescued Companion

 

 

When expanding your family with a furry member, adopting a dog from a rescue can be a rewarding and life-changing decision. Border Terriers, known for their plucky nature and affectionate temperament, make wonderful companions. Yet, finding the right dog, especially a breed-specific rescue like a Border Terrier, requires more than just a love for cute faces; it needs careful consideration and planning. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure you are fully prepared to welcome a Border Terrier into your home.

 

Chat With A Veterinarian For Personalized Pet Help

 

Visit Shelters

 

The first step in the adoption process is to visit your local Border Terrier rescues and shelters. Seeing the dogs in person can give you invaluable insight into their conditions and the environment they are coming from. When visiting, observe how the dogs interact with shelter staff and volunteers, which can indicate their socialization and temperament. Take note of the cleanliness of the facility and the general health of other animals in care. This visit can help you find the perfect dog and assure you of the rescue’s commitment to animal welfare.

 

 

Ask Questions

 

When you find a potential furry friend, don’t hesitate to ask the rescue staff many questions. Here are some crucial ones to get you started:

 

• Health: What is the current health status of the dog? Are there any medical concerns or needs?
• History: What is known about the dog’s previous living conditions and reasons for rescue?
• Temperament: How does the dog behave around other animals, children, and strangers?
• Care Requirements: What specific grooming and dietary needs does the dog have?

 

Understanding the dog's background and needs will help you make an informed decision and prepare for its care.

 

Meet the Dog

 

Meeting the Border Terrier several times before finalizing the adoption is important. These interactions can help you gauge your chemistry with the dog and its personality. Pay attention to how the dog responds to you and your family members. Does it show signs of comfort and happiness, or does it seem anxious or fearful? These meetings can be pivotal in assessing whether your home would be a good fit for this dog.

 

Prepare Home

 

Before bringing your new pet home, ensure that your space is safe and welcoming for them. Remove any hazardous items the dog might chew on or swallow, secure trash bins and toilet lids, and ensure that all windows and gates are secure. Set up a dedicated space for your new Border Terrier with a comfortable bed, water and food bowls, and some toys. Consider also how you will handle the dog’s initial days at home, including gradually introducing it to new places and people to avoid overwhelming it.

 

Read Policies

 

Adoption isn’t just about bringing a dog home; it’s about agreeing to responsibilities and conditions. Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the rescue's adoption policies. These might include stipulations about spaying/neutering, return policies in case the adoption doesn’t work out, and follow-up visits from the shelter. Compliance with these policies supports the rescue’s efforts and ensures that you are legally and ethically prepared to take care of your new pet.

 

 

Adopting a Border Terrier from a rescue is a commendable and exciting decision. It’s an opportunity to provide a loving home to a dog in need and enjoy the companionship of a spirited and affectionate breed. By following these steps—visiting shelters, asking the right questions, spending time with the dog, preparing your home, and understanding adoption policies—you’ll be well on your way to a successful adoption.

 

 

Ready to take the next step? Visit your local Border Terrier rescue or shelter today to meet your new best friend.   You can also go to North American Border Terrier Inc.  They are the leading Border Terrier rescue organization in the US.  Don't forget to check out online resources and directories for more information on available dogs and adoption processes. Your new companion is waiting for you!