This is a mixed breed puppy. The breed and size of this puppy's parents is unknown. This puppy is likely to be medium sized when fully grown.
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:
Puppies sure are cute but they require a tremendous amount of time and commitment. Before applying to adopt a puppy, please consider if you are able to provide for everything a puppy will need to grow into a healthy, socialized adult dog. Things to consider before applying to adopt a puppy:
1.Time Commitment: How much time do you have to devote to the puppy and are you willing to commit to the dog for its life? From training, to multiple feedings daily, to middle of the night potty trips, puppies need constant attention and cannot be left alone for long periods of time. If you cannot devote time to properly and responsibly raise the puppy, then it's not the time to bring a puppy home. Please be aware puppies are a 10+ year commitment.
2. Socialization: This job is critical of a puppy owner, and is especially important in the first few months of life. Can you commit the time to socialize your puppy? Puppies need to be meet people and other dogs to become a well-adjusted and confident adult dog. Socialization is never complete in a dog, but the longer you wait the harder it gets.
3. Housing: It's seemingly a simple question, but is overlooked or ignored by many. Can you properly house a puppy and are you allowed to have a puppy? Renters: Check your lease to see if there are pet restrictions. Home Owners: Check your home owner's insurance policy for restrictions. Every year thousands of dogs are returned because they were not allowed - this is not fair to the animal or to you, so please make sure that there are no issues if you bring home a puppy.
4. Lifestyle: What is your lifestyle like? Are you an active family that spends plenty of time outdoors? Or are you more of a couch potato? Some dogs require a lot of exercise daily, and remember that small does not equal less energy. Some large breed dogs have a lower activity level than many smaller breeds.
5. Cost: Can you afford a puppy? Food, veterinary visits, vaccinations, training, licensing and medical emergencies. Just a few of the costs to consider, and remember the costs of owning an animal need to be maintained for its entire life.
6. Patience/Training: Are you a patient person? Puppies are of course babies and need to learn in order to become a well-adjusted adult. Remember it takes time and lots of patience! House training, crate training, obedience training, how to walk properly on a leash; these are just a few of the critical training areas. If you lack patience and get frustrated quickly, then maybe an older dog would be better for you.
7. Long Term: What will happen to the dog if you start a family? What if you have to move? Again there are thousands that are given up every year for these reasons. Dogs are a lifetime commitment, and plans for these factors need to be made to ensure that the dog remains a part of the family for the next 10-15 years.
8. Human Medical Issues: Are there any allergies or medical conditions in your family that could cause issues that may result in having to surrender the puppy? If there are suspected health concerns, consult a doctor before considering any pet.
9. Grooming: All dogs need grooming - even hairless breeds! There's brushing as well as regular attention to teeth, ears and nails. Some breeds do require professional grooming, while others may require a few minutes with a brush on a weekly basis. Are you able to handle this responsibility?
10. Need: Finally - Why do you want a puppy? If you already have pets in the house, especially senior pets, they may not be crazy about the idea of having a rambunctious puppy running around. Along with current pets, consider other family members too and who will care the dog for its entire life, not just its formative years. If a puppy may not be the best fit for you and your family, be sure to consider one of the many, many adult dogs waiting in our shelters!
IMPORTANT: Please note that we receive a high volume of applications for puppies. Our team is incredibly busy reviewing all applications and will contact you as soon as possible if your application has been approved. Please do not contact our shelters regarding the status of your application.
TRAINING AND SOCIALIZATION:
Puppies require time, patience, and commitment to help them grow into happy, healthy adult dogs. To give the full commitment that puppies need, we do not permit adopters to adopt more than 1 puppy, of the same age or from the same litter. While it may seem cute, and even easier, to adopt 2 puppies at the same time, research shows that it's not a good idea. Littermate Syndrome can occur when 2 puppies are raised together. Their deep bond can impede their ability to properly socialize with humans and other dogs during this critical developmental period which can lead to behavioral issues as adult dogs, including reactivity and aggression. Please also consider force free, science-based training to help your new puppy become a happy, well socialized family member that won't end up back at our shelter. To find a trainer on island, visit fearfreepets.com or apdt.com.
To adopt this puppy:
Start by clicking the "Apply to Adopt button" on my profile! Once you have filled out the adoption questionnaire, our Adoptions team will follow up with you via phone or email as soon as possible. If we are a match, the Adoptions team will schedule a meet and greet appointment at the shelter.
If you have any questions regarding our adoption process, please reach out to us at adopt@hihs.org.
Please note: Our shelters are open for walk-in visits on Friday-Tuesday, from 10am to 3pm; all adoptions are by appointment only.
