What's in a Name?

You have adopted a new dog, but the name just feels wrong.

Should you give your new friend a new name?



Why not? Dogs can learn to respond happily to any new sound that is associated with good things.

Other reasons to rename a dog include:

1. The dog does not connect with its current name. Sometimes at animal shelters or with rescue groups the dog has only had that name as long as it has been there and not very connected with the name.

2. The dog has a negative association with its current name. If the dog was treated badly in its prior home, or if the dog thinks he may be punished when he hears his name, it is better to give the dog a new name that has a positive association.

3. You just do not like the dog's current name. If that is so, then the name the dog came with will not be said in a very loving manner.......so change it!

Rescue Dog Check List

Considering adopting a rescue dog?

Here are some tips from rescue experts for the best chance at a successful forever adoption:

1. Do not look at this a saving a dog, so much as looking for a lifelong pet. The rescues main concern should be to fit the dog to the family.

2. Find out whether the organization is a registered 501(c)(3)non-profit. If it handles any volume of dogs, it should be.

3. Call your local humane society to see it it is familiar with the rescue.

4. If you want a particular breed, contact the local breed club or go through the American Kennel Club national breed club's rescue coordinator or network.

5. The dog should be spayed or neutered and receive appropriate vaccinations before you take him/her home. Many rescued dogs also have microchips for easier identification.

6. If the rescue does not ask you plenty of questions, move on to another organization. They want to put each dog into a home for the rest of his/her life.

7. Your adopted dog should come with a written contract that says if for any reason you cannot keep him/her, you will return the dog to the rescue. Also, the rescue should offer a written record of where the dog came from, why it was surrendered, and any known health or behavior problems.

8. It is best if the dog you want to adopt has been in a foster home. The foster family has a chance to find out the dog's temperament and training level, and to identify any behavioral issues. This is not always possible.

9. Ask for references from people who have adopted from the rescue, then check them. If the organization will not put any of its previous adopters in touch with you, move on.

10. Take a good look at the dog to see if he/she is healthy and social.

Remember, it is worth all the work to have the right dog as a new member of your family.