We re home puppies and now adult dogs from remote indigenous communities. The term "Camp Dogs" is commonly used for all domestic dogs living in remote communities.

Our pups and dogs have either been found or surrendered so several dedicated individuals will temporarily care for and drive the dogs many hundreds of kms to get the dogs to Alice Springs for us to arrange flights.

Indigenous people who know of our work may surrender pups or dogs because they feel they have too many and want us to find a good home for the dog, even if it is in the cities. The dogs welfare is their concern.

Because of the remoteness of these communities there were too many dogs (introduced by the white man when the indigenous people were moved to missions) but now vets, often volunteers, travel to this communities to de sex and educate and offer additional vet treatment. Conditions are very basic and the vets have to be highly skilled to operate in such conditions.

However, the results have been very encouraging and the indigenous people have a very strong bond with their dogs. The dogs may not live in fenced yards, walked on leads and fed on top grad dog food but are never alone.

They are of mixed breed and come in all shapes and sizes. Research suggests there is very little dingo DNA in these dogs now.

The dogs often look like working dog crosses but have never "worked a day in their lives" nor their great grandparents. DNA tests taken by some interested Camp dog owners, often look nothing like the dog causing much entertainment or disappointment that their dog is not a kelpie or a dingo!

So we state "mixed breed". And being of such a mix usually live long and healthy lives with less health issues. However, we recommend any dog owner takes out pet insurance rather than spending a lot of money on top grade dog food or luxury beds, toys etc Puppies love a cardboard box!!!

Most of the dogs have had rich socialisation with other dogs, humans of all ages including children and often cats.

Like all dogs they need training and when young don't cope well with long hours alone. So they like city dogs benefit from dog walkers or doggie day care.

Older dogs may enjoy being the only dog and spending hrs alone if living with full time workers.

The majority of our dogs end up with families, go to work places each day, some live happily in apartments or large properties. Some now live over seas.

Please note we are a very small group with no funding but pleased to be involved with dog rescue that improves and reduces all the time.

https://www.facebook.com/CAMP-DOGS-822407711129558/

WHEN APPLYING PLEASE PROVIDE ALL THE INFORMATION REQUESTED BELOW

Do you really want a dog?

Have both the applicant and their partner discussed having a dog and "on the same page"?

If you live with your parents do they want a dog?

f you want a puppy have you seriously considered the work involved i.e. toilet training, chewing, mouthing - those sharp teeth - jumping up, going to puppy classes, maybe having extra one on one classes?

Have you considered coping with all these issues when you have children (how old are your children?) an extended family (who makes up your family) your flatmates? Are there elderly relatives to be considered?

The parents/caregivers must want the puppy and realise the constant supervision and boundaries needed.

Have you considered that puppies cannot be left for more than 4hrs without human or dog company so as to prevent separation anxiety resulting in excessive barking and or destroying everything? Dogs are pack animals.

Have you considered that a dog even pup cannot immediately be taken to a dog park or cafe?

Have you considered that we cannot guarantee how the dog will behave with other pets you may have? Our dogs have usually spent a lot of time with other dogs but if you already have a dog they may not want another dog to join the family?

Have you considered where the dog will sleep at night? If the dog is outside during the day and it is cold how can you help the dog stay warm and sheltered?

Have you had a dog before if so what size was it and when did you have the dog?

Have you considered the costs if the dog becomes ill?

Have you considered how to cope with behavior issues should they arise?

If you rent have you obtained written approval for a dog?

If you own an apartment have you obtained written approval from the body corporate?

Have you puppy-proofed your home and bought all the things you feel you will need?

Have you considered that we never know the breed of the dog or the eventual size?

If you are offered a meet and greet and it is felt by all that the dog or pup are a good fit for your family, we expect you to be ready to take the dog home/adopt at the time? We cannot hold dogs as space in foster care is needed for other dogs.

Thank you