Anonymous wrote:
Do your homework before contacting anyone.
Never assume shelters or rescues have your best interest at heart.
Never assume they will tell you all they know or suspect about a dog.

My neighbor was handed a dog who was supposedly healthy after a huge skin infection - no, it turned out it was still in the throes of it, which the vet told my neighbor the shelter *had* to know about. They lied.

My friends adopted a dog stipulating that they could not accept a dog over a certain size. They were given a dog at the upper limit of their request and assured that it would not grow bigger. Except it did, which was bound to happen since the dog was a Great Dane - hound mix. A knowledgeable dog person should have recognized the paws and other signs, and told my friends. Now they have a calf to contend with, one who pulls them off their feet and into the road when they go on walks.

I could go on, but you get the picture.

Yes, we get the picture. You know two people with dogs they don't like. Big fuckin' whoop.

Homeward Trails is good, as are WARL, Lost Dog Rescue and PetConnect Rescue. There are good pet surveys you can take to help you pick the right type of dog based on activity and lifestyle.

Homeward Trails is a wonderful organization. I adopted my dog from them 7 years ago. Another family had adopted her first, but they brought her back because it was not a good fit. I then adopted her and we have just loved her to pieces ever since. Perfect dog for us.

Lost dog rescue they have events at Petsmart in Falls Church.

Anonymous wrote:
Do your homework before contacting anyone.
Never assume shelters or rescues have your best interest at heart.
Never assume they will tell you all they know or suspect about a dog.

My neighbor was handed a dog who was supposedly healthy after a huge skin infection - no, it turned out it was still in the throes of it, which the vet told my neighbor the shelter *had* to know about. They lied.

My friends adopted a dog stipulating that they could not accept a dog over a certain size. They were given a dog at the upper limit of their request and assured that it would not grow bigger. Except it did, which was bound to happen since the dog was a Great Dane - hound mix. A knowledgeable dog person should have recognized the paws and other signs, and told my friends. Now they have a calf to contend with, one who pulls them off their feet and into the road when they go on walks.

I could go on, but you get the picture.

Educate yourself, it is common sense. Many animal places are volunteers who may genuinely not know, but have good intentions. But would you go into any commitment without educating yourself?

OP, Lucky Dog and Lost Dog in NVA are great. I also agree with pert finder type algorithms and questions. GL.

Do your homework before contacting anyone.
Never assume shelters or rescues have your best interest at heart.
Never assume they will tell you all they know or suspect about a dog.

My neighbor was handed a dog who was supposedly healthy after a huge skin infection - no, it turned out it was still in the throes of it, which the vet told my neighbor the shelter *had* to know about. They lied.

My friends adopted a dog stipulating that they could not accept a dog over a certain size. They were given a dog at the upper limit of their request and assured that it would not grow bigger. Except it did, which was bound to happen since the dog was a Great Dane - hound mix. A knowledgeable dog person should have recognized the paws and other signs, and told my friends. Now they have a calf to contend with, one who pulls them off their feet and into the road when they go on walks.

I could go on, but you get the picture.

Homeward trails was good and WARL too

Petfinder.com

WARL -- Washington Animal Rescue League. Just ask for a counselor to help you based on your criteria. Low energy, high energy, kids, disabled family member, whatever.

Before you go, do some basic research about breeds and common mixes. That will help you narrow down your choices. Do you need a poodle because of an allergic family member or close friend? Are you very active outdoors and want a high energy canine companion? Are you more sedentary and want a cuddle bug? Some breeds and mixes are great with small, grabby kids (including those of neighbors or visitors). Others...not so tolerant of having ears or tails pulled. Also think about the age of a dog. Puppies chew and may whine all night if crated. Senior dogs may have expensive health issues.
If you go with some basic info about your preferences, the staff can help you decide among the many great dogs there.

Lots of rescues in the area that will match you. Also Washington Area Rescue League

one out that will work for your family? Thanks