Labrador Rescue(North West Area)

"Where every Labrador counts"

Adopting a Labrador

The adoption of a Labrador is a considerable, but extremely rewarding commitment which should be discussed and considered by the family as a whole before proceeding.

Labradors can be expected to live for approximately 15 years and should therefore not be seen as a short term commitment but as a major part of family life for some considerable time to come. Getting a dog is a serious thing, not to be taken lightly. A dog is not something that can be thrown out or disregarded when the novelty has worn off. He/she is a living animal which will need your care and attention for all of its life.

It is also important when considering adoption, that you consider your current and possible future circumstances and take time to select the right animal for your home and situation. Try to be open minded and do not discount an older dog as these have many qualities and just as much love to give as a younger animal.

Deciding which breed to choose requires research and then objective consideration as to which fits your lifestyle.

If you can digest all the information about the Labrador which is available to you and then still be of the opinion that one will fit your lifestyle then you will be taking on one of arguably the best breed of dog in the world.

Labrador Facts

  • The Labrador loves to be with people and hates being left for long periods.
  • Puppies have sharp needle like teeth which can easily hurt very young children when playing. They can also be very destructive when left alone any length of time (don't forget a shoe chewed up in the morning will have been forgotten by the time you come home ). Your lab is so pleased to see you, in fact its all he has thought of all the time your out, and instead of a warm welcome he gets scolded for the chewed shoes!
  • The Labrador is a strong active dog and needs basic obedience training. Puppies and dogs under twelve months must not be over exercised as this can lead to problems with the joints An adult lab needs daily exercise equivalent to one hours free running or lead walking a day.
  • Labradors are greedy dogs and can easily become overweight if not fed a balanced diet.
  • The Labrador loves water and has a waterproof undercoat which should not be brushed out with excessive grooming.
  • Labradors can suffer from hereditary diseases which affect the eyes (PRA, Hereditary Cataracts etc..) and the hips (Hip Dysplasia).
  • Only buy a puppy whose parents have both got a current eye examination certificate and have had their hips X-rayed and scored (average score for Labradors is 16). The lower the score the better. Only buy puppies from a reputable Labrador breeder. The Labrador breed club in your area can put you in touch with members who have puppies available.

Reasons to adopt

  • I'm on my own all day when the family are at school/work or I have time on my hands for a dog.
  • My children are old enough to know and respect what a puppy/dog will need as a family member.
  • I have a well fenced-garden.
  • I live in the country (or place where I can exercise my dog).
  • I need and enjoy the exercise.
  • I have a full set of wet weather gear.
  • I don't own anything breakable.
  • I've just lost my old dog.
  • I own a Dyson.

Reasons not to adopt

  • There is no one at home all day.
  • I couldn't cope with a baby/young child and a dog as well.
  • I don't have a garden or enclosed yard.
  • I live in a high rise flat.
  • I don't have a garden or anywhere to exercise a dog.
  • I don't like exercise.
  • I don't like going out in bad weather.
  • I have lots of valuable ornaments/furniture.
  • I don't like a dog that's smarter than me.
  • I can't make long term commitments.
  • I can't stand dog hairs around the place.
  • I don't own a Dyson.

How to adopt

Please visit our Dogs for Adoption page. If we have a dog that you would like to adopt, please complete the application form using the application button for that specific dog.

Your application will be considered along with any others we recieve for the spefic dog. The adoption team may make contact with you to discuss your application in more detail.

After considering all applications, taking into account the circumstances and experience of the applicant and the specific needs, temperament and background of the dog a decision will be made and the most appropriate applicant will be contacted.

If you are unsuccessful, this does not mean you cannot apply to adopt another dog or that we consider you unsuitable. Decisons are made based entirely on the needs of the dogs we care for.

Once a dog has been adopted, all applications relating to the dog will be removed from our system.