A dog's love can outweigh sight or hearing problems.
Adopting a dog with special needs can be a rewarding experience for anyone with the time and commitment. The term "special needs" describes dogs with a permanent health condition, including being blind or deaf, missing an eye or leg, or having some sort of medical problem, such as diabetes, that requires regular treatment. With a few accommodations, many special needs dogs continue to enjoy normal dog activities.
Instructions
1. Check with animal shelters and rescue groups. Websites such as Pet Finder and Adopt A Pet allow you to check a "special needs" criteria box and search for rescue groups and shelter dogs in your area. Other organizations have rescue dogs with specific special needs, for example, Deaf Dogs or Pets with Disabilities. Not every organization will be near your home, so consider the distance you are willing to travel before pursuing an application.
2. Send in your application. Some rescue organizations require extensive applications as well as references, home visits and fenced yards. These requirements are not meant to discourage adopters, but rather to ensure the safety of a dog who already has experienced significant trauma or upheaval. Carefully consider before applying whether you are able and willing to meet the requirements.
3. Meet the dog. Ask the organization if overnight visits are allowed. An overnight will allow you to see how the dog's disability generally affects him. A dog with three legs, for example, may struggle with stairs, while a deaf dog could prove challenging to walk on a busy road where he can't hear cars. Discuss the necessary adjustments with your family, whether it's putting up a fence or installing a small ramp on your back steps.
Tags: special needs, dogs with, rescue groups