Rescue Information

Why Do People List Their Great Danes With Dane Connection?

Owners give up their dogs for many reasons. Some of the most common are divorce, a move, allergies, too large an animal, and "not enough time for the dog." Many do not realize until its too late that a dog needs a great deal of time and attention. Also, many do not do enough research before choosing a breed, and end up with a dog that does not fit their lifestyle.

Owners must realize that placing a Dane through Dane Connection is not the same kind of instant "solution" as dropping the dog at a shelter. They should expect to spend some time working us to find the best possible home for their dogs. Sometimes a home is found in days, other times it could take a month or more. Some dogs cannot be placed.

What is a Committee Representative?

Committee representatives are adult Dane Connection volunteers who have extensive experience with Great Danes. They are responsible for screening adoption applications, evaluating listing agreements, and referring suitable parties to each other. Committee representatives may refuse to help place a dog if they feel the dog is not a suitable candidate for adoption, due to such reasons as behavior problems, advanced age, or medical problems. Representatives may also decline an adoption application if they feel the applicant would not provide a suitable home.

What About Danes In Shelters?

Dane Connection works with several area animal shelters. The shelter may notify us when it receives a Great Dane, or volunteers may visit the shelter and report any Danes. Committee representatives refer applicants to shelters if they know of a dog that fits the applicant’s needs. The adopter will still be required to meet the adoption requirements of the shelter, and may be refused by the shelter. We have no control over shelter adoption procedures; we simply act as a referral. Most area shelters can only keep dogs from 24 to 72 hours before they are euthanized. If you are notified about a dog in a shelter, you must respond promptly.

How Can Someone Choose The Breed That’s Right For Them?

A good start is to read one of the following books:

The Right Dog for You, by Daniel Tortora

Are You My Dog?, by Dr. Janet Ryckert

A Dog for the Kids, by Mordecai Siegal

The Perfect Puppy, by Benjamin L. Hart

Find out what the breed was originally bred to do. This gives valuable clues to behavior. For example, a dog bred to hunt or pull a sled will need extra exercise. A guard breed will be extremely protective and need firm obedience training. A small terrier, bred to tunnel after rodents, will dig in your yard and kill squirrels. A herding breed may nip your heels or attempt to "herd" your children. The Great Dane was bred to hunt wild boars, so you might think twice if you or your neighbors raise pigs! Behavior can be modified, but basic instinct cannot be changed. Choose a breed whose instincts you feel comfortable with.

Once you adopt your dog, we recommend Second-Hand Dog: How to Turn Yours into a First-Rate Pet. This 96 page book, by award winning dog writer Carol Lea Benjamin, is an excellent guide for people who adopt adult dogs.

There are also many sites on the Internet with breed information and general dog care, health, and welfare information. Go to our Links page for some informational sites.

Why Adopt An Older Dog?

Puppies are a lot of fun, but not appropriate for everyone. In households where all the adults are gone during the day, no one will be home to care for the puppy. People in apartments and older people may have difficulty getting a puppy outside as often as it will need to be taken. Families with small children should remember that a puppy is not a toy, and needs constant supervision around toddlers. Many people prefer to acquire an adult dog which is already housebroken, is through the wild "puppy teenage" stage and has basic house and leash manners.

While some adult dogs may have trouble adjusting to a new home, most make the change quickly and easily. People who are concerned that dogs out of their puppyhood are too "set in their ways" should keep in mind Seeing Eye dogs and police dogs. Both of these acquire their new masters and begin their career training as adults.

Does Dane Connection Handle Puppies?

Very rarely, but it does happen. Almost all the dogs we handle are four months or older. If you feel a younger puppy is right for you, indicate this on your application and we will do our best to direct you to a responsible breeder. We are strongly opposed to buying a dog from a pet store. These dogs are often unhealthy, unsocialized, and genetically unsound. Only buy a puppy from a reputable breeder who is active in the dog community, not from someone just breeding to supplement their income. Also, beware of dogs listed in the newspaper at an unbelievably low price for "show quality." Remember that AKC registration does not guarantee health or good temperament.

How Can I Help?

If you are interested in adopting a dog through Dane Connection or want to list your dog for adoption, call the contact listed on our web page. Volunteers are welcome. Foster homes with experienced Dane families are especially needed.