So You Want To Adopt?

IMG_2668

Please Think Before You Leap

If you're like most of us, falling in love with an Airedale Terrier is easy. And no wonder! Sharing your home with this incredible breed can be one of life's greatest joys. They give us unconditional loyalty and acceptance, provide constant companionship, and even help relieve stress after a hard day's work. Let's not forget all that LOVE!

BUT Adopting an Airedale Terrier is a big decision. Airedales are a unique breed, and they require lots of time, money, and commitment-over 15 years worth if you're one of the lucky ones. Airedale ownership can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved, human and 'dale - especially when you think through your decision thoroughly before adopting.

Things To Know

Texas Airedale Rescue Team is excited you're considering applying for a rescued Airedale.
But before you make your decision, please take a moment to think over these questions:
  • Why do you want a an Airedale Terrier?
    It's amazing how many people fail to ask themselves this simple question before they get a dale. Adopting an Airedale just because they are awesome looking (which they are, we get it) or because the kids have been pining for a puppy usually ends up being a big mistake. Don't forget that an Airedale may be with you 10 to 15 years.
  • Do you have time for an Airedale?
    Airedales in particular are very social dogs and need a good deal of time and attention to thrive. They require food, water, ample exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year. Many of the Airedales we find in shelters find themselves in that situation there because their owners didn't realize how much time it took to care for them and keep them engaged.
  • Can you afford an Airedale?
    The costs of Airedale ownership, like all pets, can be quite high. Licenses, training classes, spaying and neutering, veterinary care, grooming, toys, food, and other expenses add up quickly.
  • Are you prepared to deal with special problems that a rescue Airedale may come with?
    Many of our surrendered Airedales have at least some training needs and/or behavioral issues usually caused by boredom, inactivity or neglect.
  • Can you have an Airedale where you live?
    Many rental homes and communities don't allow dogs, and others may have size/breed restrictions. Make sure you know what the rules are where you live before you bring an Airedale home.
  • Is it a good time for you to adopt an Airedale?
    If you have kids under six years old, for instance, you might consider waiting a few years before adopting an 80 lb Airedale who most likely jumps a bit when excited. Many Airedale Terriers love children, but it is important that the children are mature enough to be responsible. If you're a student, in the military, or travel frequently as part of your work, waiting until you settle down is wise.
  • Are your living arrangements suitable for an Airedale Terrier?
    We get LOTS of Airedale surrendered to us because they are not doing well in apartment or condo life where there is little or no yard. Most Airedale Terriers need ample amounts of physical and mental stimulation each day to be calm and well-adjusted. Before adopting an Airedale, research the breed and read the rescue profile of any specific dale you're looking at thoroughly! That way, you'll much more apt to find a fit for your lifestyle and your living arrangements.
  • Do you know who will care for your Airedale while you're away on vacation?
    Dog owners need either reliable friends, family and neighbors or money to pay for boarding/kennels or pet-sitting service.
  • Be a responsible pet owner.
    TART pays for all of our surrendered dogs spaying and neutering which is a cornerstone of responsible dog ownership. However once a dog is adopted, it is the adopter's responsibility to continue regular vet visits and keep their 'dale up to date on its heart worm preventative. Knowing and following community leash and licensing laws, as well as keeping identification tags on your pets are all part of being a responsible owner. Of course, giving your Airedale plenty of love, social interaction, exercise, and committing to a healthy diet, are other very important essentials.
  • Finally, are you prepared to keep and care for an Airedale for his or her entire lifetime?
    When you adopt an Airedale or any dog, you are making a commitment to care for him or her the entirety of their lifetime.

 

Get An Airedale For Life

Please think before you adopt.

Sharing your life with an Airedale can bring incredible rewards, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of time, money, responsibility, and love-for the life of the pet.

If one of our surrendered Airedales tugs at your heart and you would like to inquire about him or her, please fill out an Adoption Application.

Ready to Adopt?

IMG-0004
Apply to Adopt a Dog

  Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Please sign up for our newsletter for dog related tips and tricks and to get updates on our dogs & events!

X