* FACILITIES *
for your
BREED
RESCUE PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION

Generally speaking, your facilities are usually going to fall into one of four categories. They are: 1) Inside your home, 2) Your yard, 3) Your garage, or 4) Someone else's home. And of course, it will probably be a combination of them all eventually.....

Unless you laterally transfer dogs (which is a dangerous practice, and I urge you to read more about it in the "Minimizing Risk" section), you will need a place for them to stay. This section discusses some of the options available, with minimal expense.

INSIDE DOGS

If you are going to house rescue within your home, take this advice: Use crates. Until you know for certain what the rescued animal is like, you may be asking for chewed furniture, carpeting, and so forth. And when you leave, it's a safe place for the dog.

Also, if you have other pets, you will want to have the rescue checked by a Vet before exposing your own animals to an unknown element. Parvo would be my primary concern, with certain strains of worms, and kennel cough also being a worry. Be safe first, and minimize the risk.

Rehabilitating a rescued dog inside your home provides direct contact with the animal, and helps it get a feeling of security quicker. It's probably the best method, but it's up to you to protect your things as well as the dog itself. Common sense should tell you what is right.

OUTSIDE DOGS

I really don't like this method of rescue, but sometimes it is necessary. Please, if you have to keep a dog outside, build it a pen and provide shelter. Don't place a chain around its neck! Dogs need room to run, and a nice exercise pen would work fine. However, make certain the animal has ample time to socialize with people, and as part of the family unit. Also, take into consideration the environment. On hot days, make sure there is sufficient shade. On cold nights, use heaters, or take it inside.

GARAGED DOGS

This still does not serve as well as rehabilitating a dog inside the home, but it can be a happy middlle-point between the inside and outdoors. Many people build kennels inside their garage, and provide the dogs a safe, clean place to stay. It keeps them out of the elements, which is good. But if you choose this method, remember to socialize the dogs on a regular basis. Dogs need human companionship too.

THE YARD

I've discussed several options regarding housing rescues, but what about the yard? Take a good look at your fence. Is it tall enough to stop a Dane, and secure enough to keep a toy poodle from squeezing through? I've seen dogs that can climb chain link, and some that could clear wooden fences. Make sure your yard is secure for the Breed you will be saving.

Also, how about shrubberies and plants? Do you have anything in your yard that may be toxic to dogs? How about the yard treatment program? Take a good look around, and be safe. When in doubt, contact the experts for your Breed.

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