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JackandMattie · 03-11-2013, 03:31 PM

I have three rescues, all adopted as adults. We have had our trials and tribulations, but nothing that we haven't overcome as yet. But you need to decide whether you are really up for the task for this particular dog.

I am concerned that it's a bite case and you have all the small animals and a child...and you may be a little anxious on top of it all (which the dog will pick up on). If you do decide to go with this animal, you are starting in the right place. You will need to do your research before you bring her home. She could turn out to be a sweet girl, who only bit one time when she was under intense stress and fear...but it will be your responsibility to ensure she does NOT have another opportunity. That will take some committment.

Think through the scenarios. How will you introduce her into your home? Here's a starting point someone else on the forum has shared before, the 2-week Shutdown: http://www.bigdogsbighearts.com/2_week_shutdown0001.pdf.

Say you take all the proper steps to introduce the dog slowly, and things look good, and then all of a sudden things go south. What's your emergency plan if she bites again? The small dog, a cat, worst case scenario, the child?

Do you have the time and resources to commit to socializing and training the dog? She is likely going to need a good deal of rehabilitation. You need to be prepared to get professional training help.

When I adopted my first adult rescue, I took almost three months and looked at literally dozens of dogs. With the next two dogs, I had to make same-day decisions, because they were in such a large seizure and needed emergecy foster care. But then again, there were hundreds of dogs being seized and I spent 4-5 hours watching the dogs before I chose the ones I thought would fit me best.

This girl might be perfect for you, but don't feel guilty if you pass and keep looking. Sadly, there are plenty of dogs in rescue to choose from.

I am a huge supporter of rescue, and never want to discourage it. But I speak first-hand when I say it can be a life-changing decision, and want to encourage you not to bite off more than you can chew

And of course, if you decide not to adopt her, there's nothing stopping you from being her advocate and cheerleader and participating in her search for a forever home while you continue to look for your own perfect match.

03-11-2013, 03:31 PM	#10 (permalink)
JackandMattie Master Member Join Date: Feb 2013 Location: Deep East Texas Posts: 613	I have three rescues, all adopted as adults. We have had our trials and tribulations, but nothing that we haven't overcome as yet. But you need to decide whether you are really up for the task for this particular dog. I am concerned that it's a bite case and you have all the small animals and a child...and you may be a little anxious on top of it all (which the dog will pick up on). If you do decide to go with this animal, you are starting in the right place. You will need to do your research before you bring her home. She could turn out to be a sweet girl, who only bit one time when she was under intense stress and fear...but it will be your responsibility to ensure she does NOT have another opportunity. That will take some committment. Think through the scenarios. How will you introduce her into your home? Here's a starting point someone else on the forum has shared before, the 2-week Shutdown: http://www.bigdogsbighearts.com/2_week_shutdown0001.pdf. Say you take all the proper steps to introduce the dog slowly, and things look good, and then all of a sudden things go south. What's your emergency plan if she bites again? The small dog, a cat, worst case scenario, the child? Do you have the time and resources to commit to socializing and training the dog? She is likely going to need a good deal of rehabilitation. You need to be prepared to get professional training help. When I adopted my first adult rescue, I took almost three months and looked at literally dozens of dogs. With the next two dogs, I had to make same-day decisions, because they were in such a large seizure and needed emergecy foster care. But then again, there were hundreds of dogs being seized and I spent 4-5 hours watching the dogs before I chose the ones I thought would fit me best. This girl might be perfect for you, but don't feel guilty if you pass and keep looking. Sadly, there are plenty of dogs in rescue to choose from. I am a huge supporter of rescue, and never want to discourage it. But I speak first-hand when I say it can be a life-changing decision, and want to encourage you not to bite off more than you can chew And of course, if you decide not to adopt her, there's nothing stopping you from being her advocate and cheerleader and participating in her search for a forever home while you continue to look for your own perfect match.