- How often is the web site updated with
new dogs?
We try to update the web site as soon as we have a new dog; sometimes
we get behind as we're all volunteers, have families, and usually, other
jobs.
We posted Adoption Pending at one time, but too many people kept assuming
that it meant the dog was still available and they would keep requesting
the dog. So as soon as we have a firm (contract) on a dog, we move the
dog off the web site. During the trial period (1 week) the dog is in
limbo and is then moved to the Success Stories page or back to the available
page if the adoption doesn't work out.
Go Back to Questions
- Are all available dogs on the web site?
Usually the dogs that are on the available page are the only ones available,
but if we have babies, sick or untrained dogs that we are working with,
they don't always make it to the available page until they are ready.
The youngsters get too much attention over the slightly older dogs,
so we don't usually post them and just work with families that are interested
in puppies. Of course, this takes a special committment from the families
as puppies take a lot of time and effort and a lot of families think
they're getting perfect dogs. We do our best, but no dog is perfect
... as is no family ...
Go Back to Questions
- What do I do to adopt a dog from TVGRR?
Completion of our application is the first step for adoption. Please
fill out our adoption form online to begin the process.
Go Back to Questions
- Can I select the dog I want from the
web site?
Once the dogs are on the available page, we work with our current, approved
applications until we find the right family for the dog, and vice versa.
If the dog you're interested in is still available, we'll be glad to
work with you either for that dog or one that the adoption committee
feels will better match your home situation, or, if the dog is already
spoken for, we can use your choice to make another recommendation.
Go Back to Questions
- How long does the adoption process usually
take?
Usually a couple of weeks. This varies and can sometimes be a lengthy
process, it depends on so many factors and we really want to make a
lasting match for both our dogs and your family. Each case is very unique,
as you might imagine!
Go Back to Questions
- How is my application processed once
it reaches TVGRR?
When your application is received it is reviewed by the Adoption Committee.
Once the committee has approved the application, references are reviewed
and checked. One Adoption Committee member, your adoption coordinator,
will review your application with you, ask questions and answer questions.
During this time, the Adoption Committee continues to review the information
to determine whether or not one of our rescued dogs will fit successfully
in your home environment.
Go Back to Questions
- What do I do if I have a problem with
a dog I've adopted from TVGRR?
There are several options for dealing with dog problems, depending on
the problem. Most problems can be avoided by training and understanding
dog behavior (best learned in a positive training class, see #10). Immediate
resources are available through your local veterinarian and local obedience
classes. TVGRR has members that also work in the veterinarian &
dog obedience fields and are happy to answer questions. If we don't
know an answer, we try to find the answer or send you to someone who
will know.
As stated in the contract, if a problem exists that the adopting family
is unable or unwilling to resolve, then the dog comes back to TVGRR.
At that time, TVGRR will work with the dog and find a new adoptive home.
Go Back to Questions
- Does TVGRR require fencing for the dogs?
In most instances, a fence is always recommended. Goldens love to run
and can end up in a busy street before you can get them back and can
jump/climb higher than we can imagine!
An electronic fence does not keep other dogs (and other creatures) out
of a yard and if it quits working, a dog can easily escape. Some dogs
will go through a working fence and take the shock but not come back
through it. A fenced yard is not a substitute for having the dog in
the house with the family. It is just a convience. However, there are
neighborhoods that require only electronic fencing, so this needs to
be discussed on a case-by-case basis. If you have questions about fencing,
please don't hesitate to ask.
Go Back to Questions
- Is it okay to leave my dog outside all
day while I'm gone?
Please click here for information: Inside or Outside?
Making Your Dog a Part of the Family
- Does TVGRR require that the adopting
families attend obedience training?
Obedience training is highly recommended! Most failed adoptions are
due to lack of training, so we can't emphasize this enough. Try the
website for the Association
of Pet Dog Trainers for a list of positive trainers in your area.
Visit our resources page
for books that will help you continue the lessons learned in class.
Please ask for recommendations if you don't know of a trainer in your
area. We'll do our best to find one for you. Go Back to Questions
- What is crate training?
Crate training provides a den in which your dog may eat and/or sleep
and is highly necessary for younger dogs. For more information about
crate training, please see: American
Dog Trainers Network: Crate Training or Golden Retrievers:
Crate Training in Brief
Go Back to Questions
- How should I introduce my newly adopted
dog to my existing pets?
We recommend introducing a new dog to your family's existing dogs in
a neutral spot (perhaps a park) with both on lead and both handlers
holding treats. Allow them to see each other and approach slowly, giving
out treats and praise liberally. As they make contact, continue to praise,
but withhold the treats. Allow them to sniff and get to know each other,
holding tightly to the lead until it's obvious there will be no problems.
If all goes well, take a walk and let them spend time together. Usually,
your TVGRR adoption coordinator will do this with you to ensure a successful
match of the new dog to your home.
Once home, keep both dogs on lead again and let them interact slowly.
Keep an eye on them for awhile, again until it's apparent there will
be no problems. Take up existing dog's favorite toys and chewies until
the dogs have settled in with each other. Feed separately or in crates
for awhile. Rescued dogs can change their habits and activity levels
after being in an established home for a month or more. They are usually
more relaxed, but can become more mischievious.
If problems occur, crate the new dog and let them get to know each other
through the crate wire. Go slowly! If problems persist, please call
or email TVGRR and we'll try to
help you & your dogs work through the issues.
Go Back to Questions
- Where can I get more information about
Golden Retrievers?
An excellent resource for learning more about Goldens is the Golden
Retriever Club of America: GRCA
Go Back to Questions
- How long do Golden Retrievers live?
The only way to answer this question is with an average and that would
be 10-12 years. There are many factors that affect longevity: genetics,
health, food, environment, to name just a few. Please keep in mind that
some dogs live shorter lives and many live longer; it is not possible
predict how long any dog will live.
Go Back to Questions
- What should I feed my dog?
Dog food requirements are ever-changing and it is a matter of personal
choice and budget. Generally, TVGRR recommends at least a high quality
kibble, from named meat sources (i.e. chicken or turkey, not poultry;
or beef or lamb, not meat), no coloring agents, natural preservatives
and vitamin additives.
Many Golden Retrievers seem to be prone to skin allergies and feeding
your dog a better food will frequently control or even stop allergy
problems.
Go Back to Questions
- I don't live in the Knoxville, TN or
Decatur, AL areas; how can I find a group closer to me?
For a state-by-state listing of Golden Retriever rescues, please see:
Rescue Contacts
Go Back to Questions
- What can I do to help TVGRR with the
dogs?
We have adoptathons on the first Saturday of every month, regular fundraisers,
carwashes, wrapping sessions at Borders Book Store, a garage sale in
the fall, etc. - you are welcome to join us. Please stay in touch with
our Activities Calendar
for upcoming events. Of course, we always appreciate donations! Contact
us today.
Go Back to Questions
- How do I contact TVGRR if I have
a question or need more information?
If you need to contact us, we're available by email at RESCUE@TVGRR.COM
or you may leave us a voice message at 865-558-3100 and we'll get in
touch with you.
Go Back to Questions
|
