About Schipperke Rescue
Schipperke Rescue was started to help Schipperkes which are in need of a new home, for whatever reason: picked up as a stray by the local shelter, turned in because the owner could no longer keep it, the dog didn't fit the family's lifestyle (usually the dog is young and much too active). A typical rescue is a two year old unneutered male without any training and is totally out of control. After neutering and a little training, they usually turn out to be nice dogs.
When a Schipperke come into the rescue program, it is tested for temperament, medically screened for good health, spayed or neutered, checked for heartworm, and all inoculations are brought up to date. It is then placed in a foster home for a period of time so that we can become better acquainted with the dog's personality. After a thorough evaluation, we will place it in a home where the lifestyle matches the personality of the dog.
When we place a rescued dog in a new home, we do charge an adoption fee to help cover the costs associated with the rescue. These costs include release fees from animal shelter, neutering, routine shots, heartworm testing and medication, and the extensive veterinary care that is occasionally required. Currently the adoption fee is $350. Although we strive to make each placement permanent, if the adoption does not work out, we require that the dog be returned to us for replacement. The adoption fee is refundable if the dog is returned in the first three months.
There are pros and cons of obtaining either a puppy or a rescued Schip. Most of the time, a rescued Schip has gotten through the puppy stage where they can be total terrors. They are usually housebroken and, being adults, can be left at home alone during the day if everyone in your family either works or is in school. However, some of them have had a rough life and need some special care and attention, but will give back a tremendous amount of love because they may not have had any in their previous home.
