Thursday, 20 January 2011

Beautiful Booma

Look at that beautiful face! I am delighted to introduce you to Booma ...

Booma is a beautiful boy who is looking for his very special forever home. He will make a wonderful addition and just needs understanding, stability and above all TRAINING!

Booma hasn't received the training and socialisation that he needs, Boxers are high energy dogs who are full of life, they need training!

Because Booma has not been trained he is looking for a patient and special home, with someone experienced with Boxer types - he is not aggressive. He just needs someone who will provide him with the training and take control so he can learn the manners he needs - he is a strong willed boy so you'll need to be just as strong willed!

Booma is 16 months old and is Brindle and White. Because he needs some training and work he is looking for a home where he can be an only pet and without children. He is neutered.

If you think you can offer Booma the love and training he needs please contact www.thenorthernboxerclub.co.uk to discuss next steps.



Wednesday, 19 January 2011

Breed Focus - The Lovable Boxer Dog

Today's Breed Focus is by Vicki Van-Beck of Northern Boxer Dog Club.

The handsome boy on the right is Boomer, read his story on this blog tomorrow - he's looking for his special forever home!

The Boxer is a family dog who adores and needs company. He shouldn't be left alone for long periods, as he can get bored easily and may start to look for trouble.

He is very affectionate to children, and a steadfast friend and guardian to the whole family. He is full of life, can be boisterous and friendly with an undeniable joie de vivre, time and effort must be given to training him.

He has a healthy appetite and needs regular exercise.

A Boxer is a clever dog, quickly learning what is right and wrong provided the correct training is given - at the same time they are rather 'daft' and 'comical' making them a very valued member to your family.

Northern Boxer Dog Club

Most of the dogs who come into our Rescue Centre do so through no fault of their own. They are not dangerous merely victims of financial or marital difficulties which have faced their families with little alternative but to find somewhere else for the dog to live.

Responsible owners will ask a reputable rescue organisation to find their dog a home

However, some dogs do have issues; they may never have been socialised with other dogs and so, show fear or aggression when meeting other animals.

Some have never had love because they have been battered and mistreated their whole lives. This treatment is sure to have a lasting effect on the dog. Sometimes it makes a dog timid and withdrawn and sometimes it will force the dog to become sensitive, nervy or even aggressive.

All of the dogs which come through the rescue are temperament assessed although this is normally in the kennel environment (not always ideal) as most dogs will be much more relaxed in the home and this is important to remember when meeting a dog in kennels.

Anyone wishing to rescue a Boxer will receive a fantastic reward - unconditional love. However it must be understood that time and patience is required to achieve this as he/she will have to learn a whole new routine within the new family home.

If you can help by either offering a Foster Home or a Permanent Home for one of our Rescued Boxers please get in touch - we are grateful to everyone able to offer a home, love and kindness to these dogs who just want to be happy.

www.thenorthernboxerclub.co.uk



Monday, 17 January 2011

Which dog is right for you?

Getting a new dog is a serious commitment - it is for the life of that dog which could be up to 18 years so you need to think carefully about it. Today's post is all about some of the things you need to consider when getting a dog and when deciding what breed.

Just a quick note, when we talk about breed we are using it a a guide, but there are many gorgeous crosses out there too - but its still worth thinking about what sort of breeds suit you and then consider cross breeds of that nature too.

Ok so here are some things to think about:

  • Energy level - this includes exercise requirements but is also just a general feeling from the dog. Do you want a laid back kind of dog such as a greyhound or a really active and alert dog like a terrier?
  • Exercise - how much can you give a dog? What is certain is that you need to be able to dedicate time every day, twice a day to walk your dog. Some (like a Collie or Vizla) will need hours and some need less. Know what you can offer on a normal busy day and use that as your guide. Alot of behavioural problems can stem from lack of exercise.
  • Size of dog - do you want a small, medium, large or giant dog? What size is your garden can your dog have a run around in it comfortably? What size is your home? Don't get a Great Dane if you have a small yard!
  • Grooming - How much time can you spend grooming your dog every week?
  • Time alone - in todays world it is common that a dog is left alone whilst owners are at work but how long will the dog be left, are you willing to go home at intervals to walk or let your dog out? Will you employ a dog walker?
  • What age? do you have the time to train and work with a puppy? Would a more laid back older dog suit your lifestyle better?
One of the most important things that alot of people miss is future thinking. You need to look ahead at your life and think about what is likely to happen in the next 10 - 18 years especially if you are thinking of a puppy or younger dog.

How will you feel when you have children? Having a child is not a reason to give up a dog so are you willing to train the dog and make time for him in your life?

Are you thinking of moving? Do you dream of travelling the world or living in a new country? Will you take your dog with you? - if not either don't get a dog or consider fostering.

If you are prepared to relocate with your dog, do you know which country is likely? Will your dog be welcome there? Many different countries have different banned breeds - do your research.

Can you afford a dog? How will you make provision to always be able to give the dog the very best of care? Can you afford insurance? Can you afford to feed your dog a good quality, healthy food? Can you afford to give him supplements and extras if he needs them? We spend about fifty pounds a month on supplements and health products for our 3 dogs.

When you go on holiday can you afford the care for your dog or will you take him with you?

Remember your dog will love you with all his heart, he will depend on you and be with you for a long time - make sure you can offer him everything he needs!

If you are thinking of getting a dog we offer a mentoring service to help you prepare for and welcome a dog into your home. We are available via phone and email for the first 3 months with your dog to help you along the way for a one off payment of thirty pounds. For a limited time only get this half price!

Sunday, 16 January 2011

Sweet William is looking for his forever home


This is William, the most adorable Staffordshire Bull Terrier!

William is 7 years old and he came into rescue via the dog warden and even though his owners knew where he was they never reclaimed him.

Luckily for him he was taken in by Staffordshire Bull Terrier Rescue (www.sbtrescue.co.uk) and he has been living with a foster family. He is a true gentleman and is sharing his home with 2 Bulldogs and a French Bulldog.

Williams gets on well with other dogs, is great with humans and adores children. He will make someone a wonderful pet and would love to find his forever retirement home soon. He is an active and healthy dog and loves a bone from the butchers as a treat.

William is fully vaccinated, castrated and flee treated.

If you feel you can give William the retirement home he needs please contact the rescue on 01945474418 or staffylover@btinternet.com

Staffordshire Bull Terrier rescue is a voluntary organisation and registered charity, who through a team of wonderful people with huge hearts help rescue many Staffies in need. If you would like to help please go to the website to donate or volunteer