What’s the best way to find the right dog for me?
We understand that adding a new pet to your family is a big deal. You want to make sure you choose a dog that fits with you and your lifestyle, and we want to help. Knowing the right questions to ask is vital to picking out your future canine companion. Here are a few things you should ask yourself before you adopt:
- What is my activity level? Do I want an energetic dog to take jogging and hiking with me? Or would I prefer a low-key dog that doesn’t require quite as much exercise?
- Who will be the primary caregiver for the dog? Are they prepared for that responsibility?
- Do I have a fenced yard where my dog can safely play?
- Do I or anyone in my family have allergies or asthma?
- Are there breed restrictions in my city, neighborhood or apartment?
- Are all family members ready to make the adjustment to having a new dog? How will my current pets react to a new pack member?
- Am I ready to commit to my new dog for the rest of its life (10+ years)?
- Am I willing and able to take on the financial costs associated with owning a dog, including food, toys, medical bills, etc.?
Considering these questions will help you match up with the perfect pet for you and your family. We also suggest doing a little research on different breeds of dogs to get a good idea of what would suit you best. You are also welcome to contact us with any questions you have about choosing the right companion for you.
Adopting Your Perfect Pup
Where can I look at the dogs you have available for adoption?
Pictures and bios of our adoptables can be accessed right here through the Ruff Patch website. Just click on the Adopt A Dog tab at the top of the page to browse through the dogs we have available.
If you’d like to meet our dogs in person, you can join us at one of our adoption events at the Riverton PetSmart (13296 S. Kestrel Range Rd, Riverton, UT 84096) most Saturdays from 1pm to 3pm.
You are also welcome to schedule a private meet-and-greet with any of our rescue dogs after filling out an adoption application (see Forms).
I’m ready to adopt, what do I do now?
Congratulations on finding the newest addition to your family! An adoption application can be filled out on site at one of our adoption events at the Riverton PetSmart in Riverton. In most cases, the application can be approved right away and the dog can be released to go home with you that day.
If you are unable to attend one of our adoption events (most Saturdays from 1pm to 3pm
), or would like to inquire about adopting a dog before our next event, please contact us.
Why do you charge an adoption fee?
Each of our rescue dogs has an adoption fee, ranging from $160 to $350. This fees covers the cost of care and any special needs the dog had while in our program. It also covers the cost of the spay/neuter, vaccines, deworming, and microchip that are a part of each dog’s adoption package.
Introducing Your Pet to Its New Home
What is the best way to introduce my new dog to its new home?
A new environment can be stressful for a dog at first. We suggest keeping your new companion on a leash and walking throughout the entire house. Show the dog where they will eat, drink, sleep, and go outside to potty. Immediately letting your pet roam free upon arriving at their new home can cause anxiety and confusion, which can then lead to behavior issues, including marking. It is important to let your dog know that there are rules in the home. Start engaging in routines immediately, such as crate-training and a set feeding schedule. We recommend that you closely monitor your new dog’s behavior for the first 48 hours to see how they are reacting.
How should I introduce my newly adopted dog to my current dog?
Introducing a new member to your current “pack” may seem intimidating, especially if you are unsure how each dog will react. Presenting a puppy to your current dog is very different from presenting an adult dog. While puppies are usually easy going, adults tend to be more aware and generally more assertive. We highly suggest you introduce your new pet to your current pet (or pets) outside and take them for a walk together. This is a good way to break the ice between unfamiliar pets. It’s important to have each dog take turns leading while walking to allow them opportunities to smell each other. By the end of the walk, they should be kept side by side and enter the home together. Once inside, keep both dogs on a leash while you observe how they react to the new dynamic within the home.