Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue

It seems to happen to all breeds; they become noticed and popular, and then an ill-informed buyer discovers that commitment to the dog may not be quite what was expected. Unfortunately, Bernese Mountain Dogs have become an example of this trend. These are big, strong dogs that can weigh from 75 to 120 pounds, need regular exercise and want to be near their people.

They were originally farm dogs; yet, it is surprising the number of these dogs who as puppies were adopted by folks who live in a confined space like an apartment or condominium but expect the dogs to adapt. Keeping the dog becomes impossible, and now he or she is a candidate for a Bernese Mountain Dog rescue.

The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America defines a rescue dog as one that is purebred, placed in a shelter, is a stray or has been abandoned. They also state that they are dedicated to protecting these dogs by re-homing them with the help of regional rescue clubs. What are the steps in this process?

The Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue Application

Questions in this application process range from awareness of the breed’s special needs to what behavior is considered intolerable. Is there a fenced yard? How much time is available daily for exercising the dog? How much money comes into the household annually? How much is the potential dog owner willing to spend on vet bills?

In addition, oh by the way, which vet is expected to be involved. The list goes on and on. Once the application has been filed with the rescue agency, a representative will interview the prospective owner, sometimes more than once. This is usually done at the agency offices. During these interviews, the potential owner should be prepared to offer references.

Neighbors, friends, co-workers, and other dog owners are all possibilities to assure the rescue club that the dog in question will be placed with an owner who won’t repeat the mistakes of the past owner.

Adoption and Follow On

There may be a need for a home check to determine suitability. In some areas of the country, the rescue group follows the interviews with a physical check of the potential home to determine if all that was stated on the application is, indeed, accurate. If all is in order, the dog is placed in the home. Oh and one other thing: there is a fee of approximately $350 for this adoption.

The Bernese Mountain Dog rescue process continues with the committee that is assigned to monitor the dog’s progress after placement. Depending on the findings of the committee or perhaps just the general intuitive level of its members, this monitoring can go on for months.

All of this seems tedious indeed. However, consider why programs like these exist. Because the breed became popular, public attention became focused on its impressive style. Next, media coverage depicted the dog as perfect for the family and an ideal companion. Yet, the need for responsible research into the dog’s needs seems to be overlooked, so the need for the Bernese Mountain Dog rescue effort remains the only remedy to correct the problem. Sad but true.

Bernese Mountain Dog Rescue, 6.0 out of 6 based on 1 rating