Thank you for your interest in our rescue dogs. We think they are very special and that you will too.

Because many people are not familiar with "rescue", we would like to explain briefly what we do. Basically we find homes for ACDs whose previous homes have disappeared. This happens for a wide variety of reasons: the dog is picked up stray, taken to a shelter and not redeemed, a family is unwilling to take the dog when they move, people have a baby and decide they no longer want the dog, and the most frequent problem which is someone chooses a breed of dog which is not suitable either to his/her own temperament or life style. If you're a dog person, you can't believe the reasons that people give up a dog - but it happens all the time. Almost always, it is absolutely no reflection on the dogs and how super they are. They just get lost in the shuffle.

Most of our dogs are beyond the puppy stage. We are amazed by the number of people who think they want a puppy. Having lived with these older dogs, we appreciate the many benefits of a mature dog. Most are already housebroken, leash trained and have manners. Puppies were made cute for a reason - to make you forget the shoes they ate, the plants they demolished, the messes they made and all of the times they just drove you crazy...

Before placement, all of our dogs have been spay/neutered, received as many DHLPP-CVs as possible in the time frame, Bordetella, over four (4) months of age a rabies vaccination and a fecal to detect and treat any internal parasites. All dogs are bathed and tick dipped before going to a new home.

Due to the veterinary expenses, we do require what we feel is a very reasonable adoption donation of $75 to $125 depending on the expenses we have incurred.

Perhaps most importantly: All fostered dogs have lived with one of us for at least a week. This lets us learn the temperament, likes and dislikes, and training level fo the dog. This is critical in placing the dog in a home. Placement mistakes where a dog needs to be returned are rare because of this procedure. It isn't fair to the dog or the new owner when a dog goes out then is returned because it is not compatible with the lifestyle. Revolving door dogs that have to be replaced several times can become unplaceable.

We are dedicated to helping "our breed" so please be honest in your answers to our questions and keep an open mind. We realized that ACDs are not the breed for everyone.

Now that you have an idea of who and what we are and if you have never owned an ACD before, please pay special attention to the following.

ACDs are a herding breed. They were bred to drive cattle all day in harsh conditions. This means that they are very active most of the day. It is the rare ACD that doesn't need something to do all day. If they have no outlet for that energy, i.e. another active dog or human companionship they can become barkers, destructive, or runners. ACDs can go over a six (6) foot fence with ease if they are so inclined. They are great with your kids and will usually protect them from intruders i.e. the neighborhood kid that pushes or hits one of yours. They will also herd kids into a corner and keep them there if they feel the need to quiet them down and keep them together. Some can be aggressive with other dogs and will rarely back down from a fight. This is true of both sexes. As a pet they absolutely must have basic obedience and know you are the top dog. They do not take to rough handling but will usually bend over backwards for their "human" when worked with positive reinforcement.

ACDs are smart, quick learning dogs that excel in obedience, agility and herding trials. Their "wash and wear" coat needs little maintenance. A brushing twice a week and tick or flea checks daily are about it. Baths should only be given when necessary to retain the oil in the coat. They are the right size for traveling and will protect your vehicle and belongings without hesitation. They bond well with the family but usually will pick out their special "human". They expect honesty and fairness from you and will demand it. In the right home they are a wonderful lifelong companion.

We present both sides of the ACDs because it is a long term commitment when adopting a dog. these dogs can live to be fourteen (14) years old without problems. Since we live with these dogs please understand that they become a part of our families and we worry about them when we send them off to a new life. We realize that we cannot keep all of the wonderful ACDs who need homes. We need you and the dogs need you - so please be understanding of our concern for them. We put lots of time, energy, money, patience and love into each of them and are rewarded over and over by seeing them settle happily into loving, new, lifelong homes.

We hope after reading this, that you decide on adopting an ACD rescue dog. They are wonderful dogs that have run into circumstances beyond their control and find themselves in need of a new home and people willing ot make that lifelong commitment. We hope you will be one of those special people and discover the world of rescue dogs.

If after you've read this you'd like to apply to adopt one of our ACDs, please fill out our Rescue Questionnaire and we'll help you find a dog who's a good match for you.