Ask the Hairy Dogfathers: Shelter Stalker?

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

When adopting a dog, is there such a thing as TMI when it comes to shelters asking questions? Good thing the Hairy Dogfathers are here – they know a thing or two about personal boundaries!

Dear HDFs,

I am young, university educated, well-adjusted adult working a full-time professional job. I am a contributing member of society and an animal lover. I bought a great house in a perfect neighborhood. Since I was little, I wanted a dog, and I kinda fell in love with some goofy mutt at the shelter. But when I went to set it all up, the shelter got all creepy on me.

The person behind the counter kept asking really personal questions. Which vet was I going to use? How long do I work each day? Where was the dog going to sleep?

There is no way that I am going to tell some complete stranger when I am out of the house, or answer their weird questions about my sleeping arrangements. Who do they think they are… the puppy police?

It’s a dog. It’s been at the shelter for 8 months. You would think that if they weren’t just so invasive of people’s privacy that maybe more dogs would get into good homes.

How do I get a dog without having to answer some creep’s prying questions?

Signed, Privacy Please!

Related:How Soon is Too Soon?

There is certainly no problem with being a private person. At the risk of prying… I am curious to know, did you not like the questions because they were too personal? Or did you not have answers? If you are looking at bringing a dog into your life, you have to recognize that your life will change. Before a four-legged fur ball comes through your door, you’ll need to be ready for it. Any half-decent shelter will ask you a variety of questions to make sure that you are ready, and that the dog will be taken care of.

That said; if you really don’t want to answer all these personal questions, I do have a solution… give up. Consider getting a plant or something lower maintenance, you clearly aren’t ready to provide a good home for a dog.

Related:Can You Return A Surprise Puppy Present?

Sounds like you found a great shelter! Now, the question is, are you a great adopter? You certainly got our backs up, and we only had to read your e-mail, not meet you in person.

Honey, calm yourself. You are setting off some serious ‘tude and it ain’t cute.

Now, if you are still reading this… a good shelter or rescue is going to ask questions, not to pry, but to try! To try and facilitate a conversation that is going to make sure that everyone is on the right page. During my years working in a shelter, I often worked with families who came in looking for a certain type of dog, but learned that they were more suited to another breed of dog entirely. So chill out. Swallow your pride, and be thankful that the shelter cares enough to make sure that it’s going to be a good fit for everyone.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Rub-A-Dub-Dub – A Pug In A Tub Is This Week’s Wet Wednesday Winner

Chillin’ out in the tub – that’s how Nacho the Pug rolls. Livin’ the Pug Life in Seattle, WA, Nacho is our fourth Wet Wednesday Weekl…
Best Cat Enclosures

Have you ever thought about getting your cat an enclosure? If not, it might be worth considering. Check out the information below to learn a bit about the benefits of various types of enclosures for cats, and to access our list of product recommendations.
Best Covered Cat Beds

When you want to give your feline friend her own little bed to sleep in, there are plenty of different cat beds to choose from. But have you considered getting her a covered cat bed, in particular? You might be surprised by how much your kitty likes this type of bed. And many cat parents find that it is a great addition to their pet’s collection of beds throughout the house.
Pug-A-Mo

The curious Pug-A-Mo brings together the affectionate Pug and the keen-to-please American Eskimo Dog for a busy little companion dog that loves to play.
Top 10 Awwww-Inducing Cute Dog Names

Your puppy is so adorable, you want to give your pet an equally sweet name. Here''s our list of super cute dog names that will have you squeeing with glee.
Study: Cats’ Personalities May Be Mirrors Of Their Human Parents’

Pets are family, so it stands to reason our furry family members are a lot like us, right? A new study from the United Kingdom suggests that’s true for…
Deutsche Bracke

The Deutsche Bracke is a scenthound that is known for its exceptional obedience. It''s an ancient hound-type dog known for its narrow head and long ears.
5 Big Differences Between Cats and Dogs

Although cats and dogs are the most popular pets, there are some major differences between the two species, and understanding them will prepare you to be a great guardian to your canine or feline companion.
What to Do If Your Dog is Poisoned

Dog can get into trouble at any age - and that includes eating something they shouldn''t. Here''s what to do if your pet is poisoned.
Best Cat Carriers

Want to bring your cat along with you on your travels? Pick up one of our choices from our best cat carriers list.?
Birman

Known as the ""Sacred Cat of Burma,"" the Birman is an ancient breed whose true origins are unknown. The Birman is a friendly, outgoing, self-assured cat.
10 Best Collars For Your Miniature Husky

Miniature huskies are a smaller version of the Siberian Husky -- here are some strong and sturdy collars that come in fun sizes we found just for them.
Chimation

The Chimation brings the sassy personality of the Chihuahua together with the energy of the Dalmatian. This dog thrives on human companionship.
Basenji

A small breed boasting a regal look, the Basenji is known as the barkless dog. It belongs in the hound group, but exhibits many terrier-like behaviors.
Treeing Tennessee Brindle

If you are looking for an intelligent dog with a unique appearance and advanced hunting skills, the Treeing Tennessee Brindle may be the right dog for you.