Please consider donating! We need your help! We get an amazing amount of interest in English and French Bulldog adoption but not a lot of offers of support. Adoption fees alone do not cover even half of the medical bills, surgeries, spays, neutering, parasite preventative, treatments, vaccinations, medications, and food these rescue Bullies need.

Here is just some of the expenses we incur per Bullie.

$208 spay or neuter under 50 lbs

$252 spay or neuter over 50 lbs

$12 Skin scrapings to determent skin infection or mange

$65 Blood panel

$35 Heartworm Test

$400 Heartworm Treatment

$250 Demadex Mange Treatment

$45 Vaccinations.

$30 Food per month.

$10 Monthly Heartworm Preventative

$10 Monthly Flea Preventative tube

$250 Cherry Eye repair

$25 Dry Eye Ointment tube

$15-$20 Shampoo for skin issues

SURRENDER A BULLIE

If you have a Bulldog, which you can no longer keep, please consider placing him or her with us. We will find the perfect “furrever” home for your Bullie, no matter what the reason is. We understand that life does not always follow your original plan.

Please never place your beloved pet or found Bullie in a pound, animal control, kill facility, or any other shelter that does not screen applicants. If needed, we are willing to pay to take your Bullie into our re-homing program. We truly care about the welfare of this breed. Not everyone can handle the care and responsibility an English or French Bulldog requires. These breeds have special needs and health demands.

THE ADOPTION PROCESS

NOTE: WE DO NOT REPLY TO CALLS ABOUT ANY OF OUR BULLIES UNLESS YOU HAVE AN APPLICATION ON FILE.

To be considered as an adoption home for a Bullie, you must submit an application. You can use the online application at the bottom of this page.

We want the best homes for our rescue Bullies and are more likely to call back an application that is well thought out, organized, and shows someone spent time and effort filling it out.

Please understand our process does not operate on a "first come" basis. This is for the good of both the Bullie and the adopting family. For example, some of our rescue bulldogs are good with children and other pets and relish that companionship. Others will do better in quiet, no-pets, no-children home with fewer family members. Some bulldogs are fine left alone for longer periods of time; others are accustomed to having people around most of the day. Depending on what your home has to offer, you will be contacted when a Bullie who seems to fit your lifestyle becomes available. You are welcome to continue to check back with us and apply for Bullies as they come available.

We review all applications and then decide which ones we would like to follow up on. As we receive dozens of applications each week, we pick only the best, most thorough and complete applications for follow-up. For those applications we select: you will be e-mailed or called to schedule an informal phone interview and a possible home visit.

A home visit is simply a meeting at your house where we get to know you and your family. We discuss the adoption/foster needs of Bull Dogs and the next step in the process. Once the application and home visit is completed, applicants who are approved are given priority status for adopting one of our incoming bullies. If we have a match, we will set up another meeting between you, your entire family (including any pets) and the rescue Bullie. If all goes well, we can make a permanent placement.

Every bulldog we accept must undergo a complete evaluation. They are provided medical treatment, as needed, vaccinations updated, and spayed/neutered, if not already done so. In addition, each bulldog is evaluated for temperament to determine the type of family he/she would best fit into.

We ask for an adoption fee for each Bullie placed. Our adoption fees range from $350-$550 (we take into account age, health, disposition, etc). This adoption fee keeps our organization up-and-running and allows us to provide medical and behavioral care to our rescue bullies, as well as, emergency intakes.

We stand by every placement and are here to support you throughout the life of your new family member. We want to be sure the rescue Bullie adapts well to any children or animals in the home, is mentally and physically sound once in the home, and most importantly, happy!

We reserve the right to refuse anyone at any time during the adoption process. We have the Bullies’ best interest at heart as well as wanting the best match for your family.

WHY ARE BULLIES IN RESCUE?

The reasons Bulldogs find themselves in need of rescue vary. Mostly, it is due to Human failure in one form or another. Neglect and cruelty are all too often the reason we receive calls from Animal Control. Breeders dumping their over breed and worn out dams into rural areas to die or be picked up by Animal Control.

Bulldogs are dominant dogs, and if the owner does not insure proper training, many become difficult. Difficult dogs and independent breeds are much more active than many people expect, and unless they are taught manners, will play very roughly. If the dog is allowed to believe it is the pack leader, it may threaten, snap and even bite its owners or anyone that makes it try to do what it doesn't wish to do. In the dogs mind, it is fully justified in putting that person back in his or her proper place. Unfortunately, this type of behavior almost always escalates.

Bulldogs lose their homes because the family has a new baby, and consequently, has less time for the dog. When that happens, the Bulldog may develop behavioral problems that owners/parents feel unequipped to solve. Families expecting a child may be overwhelmed with parenthood and all too often opt to place their Bullies rather than raise them together. We just hope that they choice a breed specific rescue rather than the local pound or newspaper add.

Persistent health problems can also jeopardize a Bulldogs bond with its human companion. Bulldogs are notorious for chronic, long term health problems. Among those problems are skin ailments and recurring infections, as well as the basic maintenance needed and special attention such as, cleaning the many folds of their skin.

Some Bulldogs lose their homes for the same reason other dogs are relinquished by their owners. Sadly pet owners often tire of caring for a pet. Pets require training, attention and create more housecleaning. Some pet owners put the conditions of their homes and material possessions ahead of the needs of a living creature.

The death or illness of and owner, change in owners working hours, a move to a place where dogs aren't permitted or a family members allergies can also force a person to give up his or her Bulldog companion.

Regardless of the reason, we are hear to help, we hold no judgment against you for placing your Bullie in our care nor will we ask questions other than information needed to consider placement in their furr-ever home. Please E-Mail us if you find yourself needing to place an English or French Bulldog or know of one that needs rescuing.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO ADOPT?

Because bulldogs are such rare treasures, it can take anywhere from several days to several months after receiving your application before we find the right dog for you. We generally work quickly and review applications soon after they are submitted. If a volunteer is available to perform a home visit and interview, and if we have a dog we feel would be well suited for your home in our care, we will speed up the process.

However, the majority of the time, we approach this process methodically by taking our time reviewing the applications, scheduling visits and interviews. Please do not try to pressure us into rushing this process. It could work against you. We will just be more likely to pass your family and go to the next since there is no shortage of loving, wonderful families waiting to adopt an English or French Bulldog.

WHAT TO EXPECT WITH A RESCUE BULLY

Gentle, friendly, and adoring, with a mischievous dose of stubbornness, the English Bulldog is incessantly loyal to its family. French Bulldogs have similar traits to their larger cousins, just in a smaller package.

Usually Bullies get along well with other animals and are particularly fond of children, but this varies per individual Bullie. Highly spirited as a puppy, the English Bulldog grows up to be a calm adult. Some adult Bulldogs would just as soon not take any exercise, while others are full of energy. In all cases, Bulldogs will stay fitter if given some type of regular exercise. Fit English Bulldogs are capable of moving very quickly for short periods of time.

Because of their anatomy (which makes them so special), they typically require more intense upkeep versus other breeds. For instance, Bulldogs need daily grooming including face fold and tail cleaning. In addition, bulldogs have numerous known genetic issues such as: elongated soft palate, small trachea, allergies, dermatitis, demodetic mange, eye lid anomalies, "cherry eyes," hip dysplasia and heart problems, to name a few.

Both English and French Bulldogs cannot tolerate the elements, especially extreme hot and cold. A Bullie must be an inside dog. NO EXCEPTIONS!

Some of them have a tendency toward self-mutilation (especially if they have itchy skin), so owners should watch carefully for signs of skin irritation and scratching. The rescue Bulldogs we get are typically turned in due to these common ailments. If you are adopting an older dog, many of these conditions will already have been identified. A Bulldog will not be your running companion, but they will watch TV with you. A Bulldog may be a great guard dog, or may simply lick an intruder! A Bulldog will definitely snore, pass gas and often trail water through the house after they have taken a drink at the bowl!

TEMPERAMENT

Although the English Bulldogs appearance can be somewhat intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs. Just the same it will see off any intruder, and few would risk a close encounter with a dog brave enough to bait a bull.

It is described as a very affectionate and dependable animal, gentle with children, but known for its courage and its excellent guarding abilities. Bulldogs are very much a “people dog” seeking out human attention and loving every bit it can get!! A lot of human attention is required for the breed's happiness.

Some English Bulldogs can be a bit dominating and need an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and understands alpha canine behavior. A Bulldog who understands it's “place” in the human pack, is nice and reliable with all people.

This breed is good with family pets, but some can be scrappy with strange dogs. When Bulldogs are young, they are full of energy, but slow down as they get older. The females display more of the alpha canine behavior and rarely get along with other females, especially those their size or larger. For this matter, we like to let your current pets meet the new Bullie during the initial visit or during a two-week trial.

Generally speaking, Bulldogs are great when raised with children but a Bullie who has not been raised with children may not be child friendly. Therefore we approach each individual Bullie on a case-by-case basis.

Bullies tend to have a "bull-dozer" mentality and think nothing of pushing past someone to get to their toy or whatever you are in the way of. Nothing personal, they are, at times, just like little baby hippos.

"RESCUE IS A CHEAP WAY TO GET AN EXPENSIVE BREED"

Actually, any Bulldog is going to mean a significant expenditure over the lifetime of the dog, whether a rescue or a puppy from a breeder. While we typically don’t charge the same fees as breeders, keep in mind rescue dogs are in rescue for a reason -- they come with 'baggage.' This baggage can make for some expensive vet bills.

English and French Bulldogs are not often found wandering the streets to be picked up by Animal Control. If they are, then they have most likely been dumped and will come in with a long list of ailments.

Most of our dogs are released to our care for the following reasons: breeders who are not producing profitable pups any longer, health issues/aging, family changes including new babies and/or divorce, behavior problems, too many dogs in a home causing dog aggression, improper care leading to behavioral issues or health issues, puppy mill/hoarder or animal abuse mandatory removal, and sadly, sometimes simply emotional and physical neglect.

We get them the care they need and find loving “furrever” homes, which will continue the rehabilitation process.

PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH FOR THESE BREEDS! A good rule to remember, if you can’t afford the initial price of a puppy, you can’t afford the cost of health care a Bulldog will need throughout his or her life. One medical issue this breed is predisposed to could easily cost you $1000+ in vet expenses at any given time. If you can not afford unexpected financial set backs then this is not the breed for you.

LIFE EXPECTANCY

What is the life expectancy of a Bulldog? Depending on the source, you will find a range from 8-15 years. We rescue bulldogs of all ages. Puppies are a rare find (2 and under), but we often have plenty of trained and well-behaved adult bulldogs (4-7 years) and seniors too (8+ years). The agility and activity level of some of our older Bullies would surprise you.

WHERE TO LOOK FOR RESCUES PER STATE (coming soon)

Chunky Trunks

English & French Bulldog Rescue

Online Adoption Form

Dog Adoption Requirements: PLEASE READ!

NOTICE: Please answer all questions as indicated. Any unanswered questions or paper work submitted as incomplete (such as: not sending Drivers License ID number, full address, complete veterinarian contact info, showing copy of driver’s license at time of meeting, or omitting contact information) will result in a REJECTED application.

This is a legal contract. Please read it carefully.

* You must be 21 years of age.

* You must have the knowledge and consent of all adults living in your household .

* You must provide a valid Drivers License ID (number and state allowed for online submitting but proof of ID will be required in person, with current address.

* You must provide complete landlord’s name and telephone number (or lease).

* You must provide complete Veterinarian name and telephone number if applicable.

* You must be willing to make a ten- to twenty-year commitment to the dog.

* We do not adopt out dogs as gifts *NO exceptions.

* All dogs will be INDOOR companions. You must have a secure fenced yard or be committed to multiple daily leash walks in all kinds of weather (snow, heat, ice, pouring rain, etc.)

* Any children in the home must be over the age of 5, unless there is another dog in the home and the toddler knows how to respect a dog's space.

* All current pets in the household MUST be sterilized and current on all shots (and we do call and verify this information).

* Our adoption contract legally binds you to provide the dog with proper veterinary care, including a yearly wellness exam, up-to-date required vaccinations, and emergency care if necessary. You will also keep the dog on monthly heartworm prevention.

* Our adoption process intentionally takes several steps and usually cannot be completed in one day. Expect this process to take 2-3 weeks or longer from the time you submit an application to the time the dog will be in your home.

We reserve the right to deny an application without explanation.

Understand Chunky Trunks must approve your application before you will be considered as a potential home. Please feel free to send more information via e-mail if there is anything you would like to elaborate on. We welcome, questions, comments, and any other information you feel will help us match your home to our available Bullies. Only applications, which are thoughtfully filled out, will be considered.