Frequently Asked Questions

Anyone who has a need for a dog may contact us.

Because of Katy’s background in education and frail aged care, we are especially interested in helping people who are elderly, physically or intellectually challenged, and those suffering from emotional trauma, such as bereavement or loneliness.

 

However, everyone’s need is special, and we will treat every request for a dog with the same amount of time and care.

 

How long will it take for you to find the right dog for me?

Because we are searching for a special dog for you, and because we want to assess it and give it basic training before the adoption, the time frame can vary between 1-3 months. The more specific your needs, the greater the time may be to fulfill your request.

What basic equipment do I need to organize before my dog comes home?

We advise you to have the following: a collar and lead, sturdy water bowl and food bowl, a small trampoline bed in a sheltered area, warm bedding, soft towels, and some toys.

 

They can be a great comforter and diversion. We recommend you consider a few second hand soft toys from your local charity shop, a rope tug from the Pet care section of the Supermarket, and maybe a heavy duty chewable toy. KONGS are great, as you can stuff them with food and the dog will have hours of fun rolling the toy so the treats fall out.

 

 

 

This is a very personal choice, however, you may find the following helpful:

 

·        Are the premises clean, tidy and welcoming?

·        Do the nurses greet you warmly and with interest?

·        Does the vet use your name?

·        Does he/she use the pet’s name when talking to you?

·        Does the vet talk directly to your dog in a reassuring voice?

·        Is there a feeling that your needs are important and that you can have as much time as you need?

·        Are your questions answered in simple language that you can understand?

·        Are you invited to call and speak to the vet should you have further concerns?

 

These few prerequisites have led us to some wonderfully caring vets who remain a source of constant inspiration.

 

Will an older dog bond to me and my family? I thought you had to get a puppy for this to happen.

Older dogs become as lovable, playful, trusting and loyal as younger ones. We have personally adopted very senior dogs that have been neglected and abused, and these have become the best of companions.

 

The recognition/bonding time will vary depending on the temperament of the dog and the amount of 1:1 interaction you are able to have with it each day. Generally, you can expect positive responses within a 2-4 week period, or less, and this will continue to develop and strengthen over the months ahead.

 

Can I re-name my dog?

As soon as we locate a dog which, we believe, will meet your needs, we will email you a photo. That way, you can choose a name right from the outset. We will use the name you choose when we commence training.

 

However, a dog will adapt to a new name fairly readily, particularly if it is exposed to the new name frequently and recognition is associated with a food treat, praise and cuddles.

 

I am an elderly pensioner and I don’t drive any more. Can you help get my dog to a vet?

We are in constant touch with two outstanding mobile vets who may be available to come to you. Just ring us for contact details.

 

Can my Special Dog be delivered to me? Who pays?

If you live in the country or Interstate, the costs will be borne by you. We will make our best endeavour to organize the safest, most economical and least stressful method of travel we can.

 

If you live in the Greater Sydney Metropolitan area, and no friend or relative can assist you, please phone us: we will do our best to bring the dog to you. In this case, a contribution towards the fuel costs would be appreciated.

 

Are there any ongoing costs connected with acquiring a dog from the Special Dogs Organization?

No. Once you have adopted the dog, you will be responsible for all the nutrition, maintenance and veterinary costs associated with owning a pet.

 

Do I pay when I contact you for advice?

 No. We are here to help and support you for the life of the dog whilst it is in your care. If we recommend you see a professional for additional assistance, the fees then will be a transaction between you and that service provider.

 

Can we trial the dog prior to adoption?

Yes. We want both you and the dog to be happy and compatible. We allow a 2 week settling in period. If the dog is returned to us within this time, we offer a FULL REFUND.

 

What if we are unable to care for the dog, or our circumstances change after a long period of time?

 

We are an “Arms Open” Organization. This means that not only do we accept our dogs back, but we ask you to return them to us should the need arise, so we can arrange another home.

 

Can I re-home my dog with a family member or friend?

Yes. We only ask you to return the dog to us if there is no-one else to care for it, in which case we will look after it until a new home can be found. Please notify us of new contact details of the new owner.

 

If you are NOT FOR PROFIT why does the dog cost $380?

All we recover is the basic cost for a dog to be thoroughly checked by a veterinary doctor, micro-chipped, registered with the Council, heartworm tested, wormed, flea treated, vaccinated against the major diseases, and de-sexed. Your contribution towards these costs is $380. We pay the rest.

 

What if the dog needs surgery or additional care when it is released from the Pound?

Some of our dogs do need extra care and veterinary attention: we pay for this until the dog is adopted. We do not pass these additional expenses on to you.

 

Can I request a dog with special health needs?

Yes!

The members of our advisory panel have all had, or currently have, dogs with special medication needs. The new lease of life that these animals show, and the boundless joy they bring to their owner is a true ray of sunshine!

 

Can I own more than one special dog?

Yes, subject to you having the ability to care for two dogs. In our experience, two dogs are usually as easy to look after as one. And they keep each other company, play together, snuggle when the weather is cool and provide double enjoyment to the owner.