How I did it: Went to the local animal shelter right before Christmas.  Our other dog had been ill some time and passed away, and we were saddened by her loss.  Normally there is a fair charge for the animals as they have had a health assessment, been neutered, and, of course, there is the costs of room and board.  Someone had donated a bunch of money to provide $25 off coupons for people wishing to adopt.  They were also running a special - spin a wheel and win a prize - from $10 - $20 off, collars, dog bones, and such.  We lucked out and received more of a discount.  So our very large, wiggly pit bull teenager cost us $25.  Of course, bowls, leashes, etc. cost us more!  Still, we are quite happy that Happy (that's what they named him at the shelter) has come to live happily ever after with us.

Lessons & tips:

• Bring your vet's name and phone number - if you don't have a vet, look one up in the phone book
• Have food and water bowls, food, etc. at home so you don't need to stop off with a strange dog in your car to purchase them
• If you have a dog carrier, bring that - and be prepared to clean up - we had an hour drive home, and our dog got car sick.  Luckily he was in a carrier and we had lots of old towels waiting at home
• Crate training is wonderful - purchase a crate ahead of time. It seems cruel at first, but once the dog knows it's their special cave, we almost never close the door. 

Resources: Giant Nylabones for "agressive chewers" are great for pit bull pups with strong jaws.  I wish we had known about these when our Dobie was a pup - we named her Mauly because she mauled everything in site when little.

---

Feb 05, 2011, 11:47PM PST | 0 comments | 3 cheers