Adopt A Dog
Melbourne Dog Rescue believe each rescue dog is an individual and we want that dog to be adopted into the home most suitable for them...
[ Before You Adopt ]
Deciding to adopt a dog, is a big moment in our lives, remember that dogs can live as long as 20 years, and you will be responsible for that dog. A dog is not a disposable item, a dog is for life. Please consider the following before you decide to adopt a dog.
- Do you have secure fencing (no gaps or holes under fences)?
- Can you safely house your dog both inside and outside?
- Do you have the time needed to adequately care for a dog (training, socialisation, daily mental and physical stimulation)?
- Are you prepared to train your dog some rescue dogs have behavioural issues, they will need attention?
- Do you have or Are you planning a family in the future will you have time to provide the necessary daily care a dog requires?
- Have you researched breeds, to suit your lifestyle? Consider the grooming requirements of some breeds, activity levels, safety around children; does anyone in your family have allergies?
- Can you afford vet bills, obedience classes, food, monthly worming, heart worming, toys, flea prevention, annual vaccinations and boarding if needed?
- Can you make the lifetime commitment to a dog?
- What will you do with your dog if you travel often, or your work requires you to move?
- Remember that rescue dogs, can need the same attention and training, as a new puppy.
[ The Adoption Process ]
Our adoption process may seem time consuming, or take longer than adopting a dog from a shelter. This is because Melbourne Dog Rescue believes each rescue dog is an individual and we want that dog to be adopted into the home most suitable for them. Dogs are for life, and these rescue dogs have often already been abandoned once, and we want to find them their perfect "forever homes".
First, please fill in our online Dog Adoption Application Form here:
» Dog Adoption Application Form
or if you feel more comfortable you may also email us for a Dog Adoption Application Form:
rescue@melbournedogrescue.org.au
Once you have completed the dog appliction form a follow up call will be made, to ask further questions or to discuss any concerns we have with the application. You will also have a chance to speak with the rescue dogs' foster carer who will be able to answer any questions you may have.
You and your family (furry and human) will meet the dog you would like to adopt. A house check will be carried out before the adoption takes place. A representative from Melbourne Dog Rescue will arrange a time to come to your house, to ensure you have a safe and secure environment for a dog to live in, for example secure fencing and adequate shelter.
We then arrange to bring your new pet to your home, where an Adoption Application will need to be signed, and the $300 adoption *fee paid.
*Fees charged at Melbourne Dog Rescue Inc. go towards helping cover veterinary expenses, and any additional costs of caring for the dogs whilst in foster care. Melbourne Dog Rescue Inc. is a not for profit organisation.
Why Choose A Rescue Dog
Rescue dogs will have been housed in Foster care, and most come with basic manners (including toilet training) and socialisation. So you are not starting from scratch with a rescue dog.
The Bond is strong. Rescue dogs are eager to become part of a family where they feel safe.
Fewer Upfront Expenses. Rescue dogs have had a physical examination, and had all necessary vet work done. When you buy a puppy, you have to pay for the pup AND all the vet work.
It teaches your family good values. Adopting a rescue pet for your family is a great opportunity to teach basic values of compassion and caring. And also the importance of giving Second chances.
What's Included
- Desexing
- C5 Vaccination
- Worming
- Heartworm Treatment
- Flea Treatment
- Microchip
- Collar and ID tag
- The satisfaction of knowing you have helped to save a life
