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Bassets in need come to us from several
sources. Some come from homes that for one reason or another
can no longer keep their Basset Hound. Others come to us from
shelters or humane societies as relinquishments or strays.
When it is possible, information from former owners helps
us to profile a hound's needs. Also, we evaluate the hounds
specific needs by our observations during foster care.
Another item on the agenda while the
hounds are in our care is that we see to their immediate medical
needs. They are examined for general health and brought up
to date on their vaccinations. Various maladies are taken
care of. They are spayed or neutered if they had not already
been altered.
With these facets of our process complete,
we begin to search for a home for the hound. Our adoption
application may seem lengthy, but it has been designed to
provide us with answers that will offer us insights to match
a prospective owner with the specific needs of an individual
hound. When a probable match looks good, we contact the adoption
applicant and tell them about the hound that we have matched
with them. The hound and family have a meeting set up and
if everyone is agreeable, the hound is sent with the family
in hopes of living happily ever after. We try to check back
after a couple of weeks to make sure that the adoption is
moving along smoothly. Also, it gives us opportunity to answer
any new questions that may have arisen.
Throughout the year we attend Basset
related events and also put on our own events. These events
are designed to raise funds and public awareness, but most
of all, our adopted hounds get the opportunity to socialize
with others of their breed. Families get to interact and discuss
common pros and cons of Basset Hound ownership. It makes it
possible to gain new ideas on how to deal with any persisting
problems they may be having. The benefits of such a support
group are endless, not to mention the friendships that are
started.
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