Poodle 101: Spotting Good Poodle Rescue Centres

Dealing with Poodle rescue groups (or any dog rescue groups, for that matter), is not like dealing with a business, or a government agency. There will not always be someone to answer the phone when it is convenient for you. And money never talks with good Poodle rescue groups, even though they are all cash-strapped and most run with volunteers. The goal of an ethical Poodle rescue group is to make each dog in their care find a forever home – not one that's just going to go kick them out again.

This is why it takes a long time to go through the Poodle adoption process. You will feel like you are going through a human child adoption process. This is the sign of a really good Poodle rescue group! You should never be able to pay a fee and have a dog on your doorstep the next morning. That is a puppy mill, not a legitimate rescue group.

A good Poodle rescue center's website will only let you apply for a dog, not put one on reserve. The application should be lengthy, almost to the point of making you cry, and should quiz you on your current knowledge of Poodle information on their care and handling. A good Poodle rescue centre will also ask you for personal references, usually from your veterinarian and a professional groomer. Poodle rescues usually do background checks on you and give your home a check.

Although you may have to pay a non-refundable adoption application fee, you should not have to pay the adoption fee for the dog until you actually meet the dog. Never trust photos sent to you about the dogs for adoption. If the Poodle rescue centre discourages you from meeting the dog first, then it is most likely a puppy mill. Run far away and try another Poodle rescue group.

Always get to visit the dog at the Poodle rescue centre before you sign anything or pay any full fees (with the possible exception of the initial application fee). You want to see if you get along with the dog, how healthy he or she is and what conditions he or she has been currently living in. There may be more than one visit required before adoption is finalized.

Also expect a good Poodle rescue to do surprise check ups on how you and your new best friend are getting along. And Poodle rescue volunteer workers are great for turning for help and advice on all things dog. They might not be able to get back to you right away, but they usually do within 48 hours. And that is for no extra charge. They also get to know the personalities of all of the dogs up for adoption, so that you are assured of compatibility.

Lisa Collins has talked with numerous dog owners, vets and shelter workers in two countries about Poodle rescue centers. More people should choose Poodle rescue dogs rather than buying puppies in a pet store. Your vet or a reputable breeder is the best resource for Poodle information.