January 6, 2009

How to Choose a Beagle Rescue

by Michelle Adams

This article concerns the issue of beagle rescue. Before that topic is addressed, it is important to know a little bit about this breed of dog. The beagle dog breed dates back historically to 19th century England. The breed was registered with the American Kennel Club in 1885. Since that time the beagle has gained popularity. These sturdy dogs have always been known as excellent hunting dogs. They are also known for their independent spirit and loving temperament. Beagles have an excellent sense of smell and a natural affinity for the chase. These dogs are also good family pets. The breed gets along well with most other breeds of dog but may not take to the family cat so readily unless socialized with cats and/or other species from birth.

Beagles have attractive physical characteristics; they have short, sleek fur, a sturdy body structure, and brown eyes with a characteristically sad expression. Beagles may be tri-colored in varying shades such as black/white/orange or black/white/yellow. Their attractive physical as well as personality traits make beagles very desirable pets.

Due to their desirability, beagles have been unethically bred in “puppy mills,” which are operations in which breeders raise purebred dogs just to breed them and sell the puppies at auction. The dogs are often mistreated. They are bred incessantly and fed but they are caged and neglected in every other way. Breeders aren’t the only ones to blame for this however.

Members of beagle rescue centers work to save purebred beagles from a life spent in a puppy mill or from ending up in an animal shelter where they will be euthanized.

These practices have caused many beagles to be placed in dire situations in need of rescue. Whether abused in puppy mills or abandoned by their owners, rescue centers take in purebred dogs as an alternative to placing them in traditional shelters. There are beagle and other rescue centers that take in animals specific to the breed and there are centers that take in many breeds. These centers utilize volunteers to buy, rescue, socialize, and foster or adopt out purebred animals who have been mistreated.

Can rescue beagles still be raised as happy family pets? How do you raise a rescue beagle? The answer to the first question is simply ‘yes’. There are important techniques/tips to know when raising a rescue beagle, but they can be friendly, happy pets if treated with patience, kindness and love. The answer to the second question is more complex. Though rescue beagles may have come from neglectful or even abusive homes, rescue centers work to support foster and adoptive parents in making rescue dogs successful members of their families.

It is also important to know your breed. Beagles are active dogs and require at least one long walk per day. Because of this, a small apartment in the city may not be an adequate environment for this particular breed.

The most important tool to use in raising a beagle rescue is to practice consistent patience and kindness. Rescue dogs have gone through trauma and must be given time and love to become comfortable in their new home. It is also important to follow the guidelines of rescue shelter staff and ask for advice regarding any behavioral issues with your rescue beagle.

About the Author:

Michelle Adams is an avid lover of the Beagle and has a popular website where you’ll discover how to have a happy, healthy and well behaved Beagle. Among other topics there, you can also learn all about Beagle Rescue Information plus a whole lot more.