If you are looking for a dog who won't bark, jump, dig, chew, shed hair, has perfect manners and is 100% housebroken, may we suggest the stuffed animal aisle at Toys r Us.

Our rescued dogs are not perfect. Some of the dogs you are seeing today were abandoned, abused, starved, shot, hit by cars, or simply neglected by the humans they had once trusted. A rescued dog can bring a lifetime of love and devotion, but can also require extra effort on your part. Some dogs will need a gentle hand with housebreaking, or learning that they no longer have to fight for their food. After being abandoned, some may have separation issues, and may need help to feel secure again.

Remember, these dogs have lost their homes and families. Their entire world has been turned upside down beyond their capacity to understand, and most will require some time to adjust.

Please have realistic expectations for them.

If you have the patience and compassion it may take to change the life of a rescued dog, you will be rewarded with a lifetime of love and gratitude unequalled by any other species.

But if you cannot make the commitment to work with this dog and to be a wise and compassionate guardian, we respectfully request that you do not adopt from us.