Last updated: 22 Jul, 2019
Published on: 29 Jul, 2014
4 Signs of a good rescue group
When you’re adopting a pet, it’s important to find a rescue group or shelter you trust and feel comfortable with. But how can you make sure you make the right choice? Here are four signs to look for:
1. A warm welcome
A welcoming and friendly vibe is always a winner, as is responsiveness. While many volunteer-based rescue groups may not have the resources to respond to you immediately, they will make an effort to get back to you as soon as they can and not leave a potential adopter hanging.
2. Attentiveness
They are willing and happy to spend time discussing your requirements, lifestyle and expectations, addressing your concerns and answering any questions you have. They should also be open to offering pet advice, in case you need it after you adopt.
3. Commitment
They demonstrate a genuine interest in the life-long welfare of their animals. Read your adoption contract and make sure it includes a clause that you can return the pet to them if the adoption doesn’t work out for you and your family.
4. Responsible
They should be committed to desexing their animals, so be wary if the group is willing to give you a dog or cat of breeding age that has not been desexed, without arrangements in place for timely desexing, or without a valid vet-approved medical reason.
To find rescue groups in your community, search the Rescue Directory. Or for more information about the different types of rescue groups, check out What’s the difference between a pound, shelter and rescue?