The Stubbington Ark (RSPCA Solent Branch) Animal Shelter
174-176 Ranvilles Lane PO14 3EZ
Fareham, Hants GB
Tel 01329 667541
Fax 01329 665262

Choosing a Dog

Choosing a Dog

 

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Many of the dogs we take have come to us through no fault of their own.   

The main reasons for intake of animals at this shelter are lack of knowledge and understanding of a pets needs; inability to cope with pets demands; inability to afford upkeep, particularly veterinary costs; and social and domestic problems that reflect onto the pet.

There are many factors causing animals to become homeless or unwanted, listed below are just a few typical reasons:-

(a)        Impulse acquisition - often to appease children.

(b)        Irresistible appeal of fluffy kittens and puppies or an attractive pedigree breed.

(c)        Lack of proper training - animal becomes difficult to handle.

(d)        High cost of veterinary treatment and neutering

(e)        Cost of boarding at holiday time.

(f)         Pressing needs and commitments with young families.

(g)        Broken Homes

(h)        Being left too long which usually results in :           

           1) Barking when left, disturbing neighbours.

           2) Destructiveness           

Owning a dog is extremely rewarding but requires commitment and a responsible attitude.


Please make sure you consider the following before adopting a dog from us:


Can you afford a dog?

Food

It will cost £10 a week to feed a dog – that’s £520 per year excluding treats.

Vaccinations

Adult dogs need to be vaccinated yearly against distemper, canine hepatitis, leptospirosis, canine parvovirus and kennel cough.  Depending on the vet you use, these can cost between £30 - £60.  Puppies need a course of three vaccinations, each costing between £20 and £40.

Worm & Flea Treatment

All dogs need worm treatment (every 3 months) and flea treatment (every two months) – this combined can cost up to £50 per year.

Insurance

Pet insurance is a sensible idea to help meet the cost of unexpected veterinary treatment.  This can cost between £10 to £40 per month.

Kennel boarding

Don’t forget to include the cost of boarding kennels during holidays. The Stubbington Ark charges from £10.00 per day.

All these figures are approximations and you should consult your vet for exact charges.

  • Do you have enough time for a dog?

How much time can you spare to spend with your dog?  Can you be with your dog for most of the time every day?  Dogs are social animals and crave companionship.  If you work long hours, a dog is not for you. This is extremely important since one of the most common reasons dogs become unwanted or are returned to us is that they are being left for many hours and are destructive or disturb neighbours by constant barking.

Can you take your dog for regular walks?  Dogs need regular exercise and you should take your dog for a walk at least once a day.  How much exercise they need depends very much on the breed and the individual dog’s habits.  You should also put aside some time to train, groom and play with your dog on a daily basis.   

  • Would a dog suit my lifestyle?

How will a new dog fit in with other members of your family, particularly children and resident animals?   

Can you provide direct access to an escape-proof garden where your dog can play?

  • Are you ready for the commitment?

Dogs need a regular routine, love and attention and owners who will stay interested in them for all their lives.  Having a dog is a lifetime commitment as some dogs can live 15 years and over – can you commit to caring for your dog for all of its life?

If you can answer a definite YES to all these questions then a dog could be the right pet for you.

At any one time we have approximately 100 dogs in our kennels.

Here at the Stubbington Ark, all our dogs undergo an individual temperament review which enables the staff to decide which type of home is best suited to each dog according to it’s needs.  We try to be as flexible as we can but we work with information from previous owners, dog wardens and council kennel employees. We also study behaviour that the dog displays at the Shelter.  However, there are certain areas where we cannot be flexible such as the ability to live with other dogs or cats and the length of time the dog can be left.  We do try to have a degree of flexibility regarding the age of children.

Some tips for when you visit the shelter to find your new companion...

  • Have some idea of the dog you are looking for – size, age, sex and breed type.

  • Choose a dog that will suit your lifestyle

Looking for a new hobby? Perhaps a border collie.

Like jogging? Dalmatian types would enjoy this.

Like lots of country walks – whatever the weather? Spaniels demand this!

Like chilling out in front of the television?  You may be on the floor but the greyhound will love the settee.

Not able to walk far? Go for an older, quieter dog.

Have a busy, active household? Terriers love this – though they do need rules!

  • We know many families need a dog suitable to go with cats and young children.  Such dogs are always the nicest dogs that come into the Shelter and are reserved very quickly.  There are some dogs we will never rehome with cats and these are all sighthounds and most of the bull-breed types unless we are SURE they will be safe.

  • Read kennel cards carefully.  If what you have to offer does not meet the dog’s needs, move on and keep looking.  Ignore how the dog is behaving in it’s kennel – it will be totally different when out.

  • Listen to the staff.

  • Never go for ‘second best’.

It is unlikely you will find your new companion on your first visit but PLEASE be patient.  We take dogs in on most days and we usually rehome 50 dogs every month.  Changes are always being made so regular visits are recommended.

If you cannot find a particular breed you are looking for, why not approach a Breed Rescue?  Virtually every breed is represented and there are rescues scattered all over the UK.  Contact The Kennel Club for details of the nearest Breed Rescue for the breed you are interested in.

Other recommended links: dogsblog.com petsr.org