Accepting Dogs
If you have found a dog
If the dog is fixed or has a collar and looks lost - not abused - it would be a good idea to go to the nearest vet and have them check for a microchip. There may be a family looking for their pet. We can also make a found posting on our site.
What to do if you find a dog but can't take him/her home ...
- Find a shaddy place near where you saw the dog, hidden from the public to take care of the dog until we can find a place.
- Put a bucket for water and bowl for food. You can buy a large bucket for $1.73 at Walmart in the carwash isle. A stainless steel or glass bowl is best. Bring food and water every day, an easy way is to buy 2 buckets and swap them, this keeps the bucket clean and is easy to transport.
- Build a shelter from the rain and sun or get an old dog crate - we may have one for you or ask for donations on craigslist. A tarp proped up or anything you can find is good.
- Food - If you can afford it buy high quality food as the dog will need it. Petspot on Ward Drive or Pearl City has Nutromax for $20 a bag. Other pet stores may also. Otherwise buy whatever you can afford. If possible leave a can of food and add vitamin C, fish or flaxseed oil, and vitamin E. Another great thing would be a Progam flea pill once a month.
- Leave your scent on everything. Mix your hands in the food. This will let the dog know who is taking care of it. Talk to the dog, even if you don't see him/her they are probably watching and listening.
- Try to feed and visit at the same times every day so the dog will know when to expect you. This is your best chance of getting the dog to trust you and come up to you.
- Take a picture if you can. We can always list the dog with an explanation and see if someone can foster it or wants to adopt it. People are always more willing when they can see what is happening.
If you find a dog and can take the dog home
If you are able to walk up to the dog make friends with him/her with treats and affection. Take a nylon leash and wrap the handle end around his/her next and pull the leash through the hoop. Pull the leash up to the top of the dog's head. You know have control and the leash will not let the dog pull back and slip out if he/she gets scared.
The dog is probably going to be afraid at first but will walk with you once the leash is on - better than coaxing to your car. Be gentle and firm. Walk with the dog making sure he/she is beside you or slightly behind. She may get scared and try to pull out. Stay calm and gentle and firm pull the dog with you. Within about 10 minutes of walking around the dog will usually relax and let you lead her. Make sure you at least go on a good 15-20 minute walk before going home or to your car. You need to build a relationship of trust and leadership with the dog. This is the best way. The longer the walk the better. It will also make a transition into the new enviroment easier.
We can possibly help you catch the dog and acclimate him/her to their new enviroment.
What we can do to help you...
We can get the dog fixed, microchiped, examined, and a heartworm test at a reduced rate. Depending on our funding we may be able to pay for this, otherwise we ask you to help.
The dog will be listed for adoption on our website and other online adoption sites.
We will assist you in training and caring for the dog.
We can sometimes provide food and accessories for the dog.
You will need to sign up as a Foster Family.
If you want to find a new home for your dog...
If you would like us to help you find a home for your dog we can offer the following:
- An adoption listing on our website and other online adoption sites
- Reduced rate spay/neuter, microchip, and heartworm test if your dog doesn't currently have this.
- There is a $25 fee for you to surrender your dog
What you will need to provide:
- Pay for, or provide, records of spay/neuter, microchip, heartworm test, current vaccinations, and any medical conditions that need to be treated or addressed.
- Sign over ownership of the dog to Pawprints Rescue and transfer microchip and license
- Be willing to work with us and your dog to resolve any training or behavior issues in order to make the dog more readily adoptable





This page was last updated: May 3, 2009