News Updates:

RIP to one of our very special alumni, Skylar.  Click to read her story.

Skylar4





Financial Information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 919-807-2214.  The license is not an endorsement by the State.


Mooresville, NC

So you think you want a dog??

 

We are updating this page as we have time. Please email arrf@arrfnc.com if you have suggestions for areas that should be addressed.

There are many things that you need to consider throughout the life of your pet. Many are initial decisions prior to adopting/purchasing a pet. The information will be organized chronologically from the beginning to the end.

 

Before you bring a pet home -

Self Evaluation - You need to make sure you are physically, mentally and financially prepared to take on the responsibility of owning a pet. The commitment is very long term (approx 10-15 years) and should not be made lightly. If you are not completely sure you can physically handle the exercise needs, mentally handle the ongoing training and possible behaviour issues, or the financial costs of not only annual maintenance but potential non-routine medical needs, you may want to reconsider bringing home a new pet. Click here to see what annual maintenance adds up to.

Environmental Assessment - Look closely at your surroundings. You need to consider what environment you will be bringing the dog into and if it is an environment that will allow the dog to be a successful family member. Things to consider:

- How many hours a day will the dog be alone and do you travel often

- How will the dog get exercise and get mental stimulation

- How will you handle normal issues such as barking, chewing, housebreaking, marking, nipping, jumping up, digging

- Do you have roomates, children or other pets - How will they work with a new pet and will they assist or inhibit training

- Do you plan on having children soon and if so, how will you introduce your pet and will you have enough time for both? Are you willing to work with your pet prior to the baby's arrival to properly prepare them? Dogs and Storks is a program specifically designed to help people make this transition.

- Does anyone in the home have allergies or asthma that would be affected by pet hair /dander

Contractual Limitations - Many people don't realize how much BSL (Breed Specific Legislation) there is or how it affects them. There are several areas that can prevent you from becoming a Rottie owner. You should check with any/all of the following that apply:

- Landlord - does your landlord accept pets. Do they have limitations on age, weight or breed?

- Home Owners Association - Many HoA have breed restrictions. You will eventually be asked to get rid of your Rottie if they restrict the breed so call them before you get one. If you are looking at purchasing property, check the HoA regulations before you buy!!

- Insurance - Many renter/homeowners insurance agencies have breed restrictions. If you have the option, call the corporate customer service number instead of your agent and ask if they have breed restrictions. Insurance is easy to change but you have to be willing to do it if you want to avoid jeopardizing your coverage. You can get more general information on varied insurance stances here.

- Local regulations - Be sure to check out what the regulations are for your area. Some municipalities restrict the ownership of certain breeds and others charge annual registration fees. You can look here www.municode.com Scroll to the bottom and choose searchable online databases. Then Choose your state and county or city. Then you can choose the animals listing (you may need to use the search engine to locate them)