Our family has adopted our fair share of rescues over our lives. Each has come with it’s own unique issues, but were loved nonetheless. Shelters provide a valuable resource for homeless pets, but rarely have “doodle” dogs. The past decade has seen a dramatic increase in Goldendoodle rescue groups. These groups are very specific to goldendoodles and labradoodles and often accept no other type of dog.
We are members of a multitude of dog forums and groups online. I see thousands of inquiries a year looking for a rescue doodle. While their heart is in the right place - there are some serious caveats when it come to adopting from a rescue.
The first thing to consider is that an adult Goldendoodle or Labradoodle for adoption by a rescue has probably been through some stuff. Dogs that have been neglected or abused require persistence patience and specialized training to be a successful family pet. Sometime, you will not know the background or what triggers the dog may have, which can lead to a frustrating, or even dangerous situation. I have been told about some dangerous situations with a rescue and children.
What is more, many of the Goldendoodle and Labradoodle rescue groups are actually brokers in disguise. According to the Chicago Tribune, One southwest Chicago store acquired 765 purebred and designer puppies from a sham Iowa rescue and sold them for more than $1.1 million between 2016 and November 2018, according to the Iowa attorney general’s office. This is not an isolated incident, either.
Many rescue groups even go to auctions to purchase entire litters of puppy mill puppies to resell as rescues.
A commonly used phrase is, “I got an Amish Puppy mill rescue.”
No you didn’t.
That puppy mill was PAID for that puppy and will now continue to produce them for more money. Sadly, instead of saving lives, your purchase will now serve as a reason to have those dogs living in inhumane conditions to produce more pups.
Are all rescues bad?
No! Many actually accept problem dogs or actual rescued adults from puppy mill situations! These dogs are absolutely in need of loving homes. The mark of a great rescue is that they carefully screen adopters, spay or neuter the dog and only have adults available for the most part. If you choose to rescue a doodle, be prepared for a very long wait, an intense vetting process for new homes and an older dog. Look into the many resources available for behavior issues related to neglect and trauma. it would be wise to consult with a behaviorist before you get your rescue, to learn how to deal with common issues that come with a rescue.
An LOVE your Doodle! They are such amazing creatures <3