So, you’ve decided to adopt a dog. This is great; there are so many dogs in need of a loving home.
But, before you get swept up in those puppy-dog eyes, let’s talk about a crucial question: when is a dog rescue not really a dog rescue? Spoiler alert: it’s when they’re more interested in your wallet than the welfare of the dogs.

The Gold Standard: Registered Charity Numbers

First things first, look for a registered charity number. Legitimate rescues are usually registered charities (or at least recorded as non profit), and this charity reference number is like their golden ticket. It's a sign they've jumped through the necessary hoops to prove they’re in it for the dogs, not the dollars. No number? Move on. And don’t take their word for it. Enter the number into the Charity Commission database and check it’s legitimate!

Social Media Ghosts

Rescue organisations that only communicate through social media? Red flag. Everyone loves a cute dog pic on Instagram, but a rescue that’s serious about rehoming dogs should have more going for them than just a Facebook page. Look for an official website, company registration, a physical address, and a phone number where you can actually talk to a human. Who is their vet? Has the vet heard of them? Where are the dogs kept? Who pays the vet bills?

Why Checking Registration Matters

But why should you bother checking if a rescue is a registered charity? Here’s why:

Transparency and Accountability

Registered charities are held to strict standards. They have to be transparent about their operations and finances, which means you can trust that your money is going to help dogs, not line someone’s pockets.

Proper Vetting and Care

Legit rescues ensure dogs are vet-checked, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered, if they are adults. They also assess dogs' behaviour to match them with the right homes. This means a healthier, happier dog for you.

Welfare Assurance

Dogs from unregistered rescues or internet sales sites may not have received proper care. They might have health issues or behavioural problems that weren’t properly assessed. They may even have been stolen. Since Covid there are many dogs with severe behaviour problems and no rescue centre spaces to take them in. This means owners are desperate to find homes. These are dogs that get rehomed via online means through unregistered organisations or via internet sales sites. It takes a few months for behaviour problems to become apparent. Once a dog has settled in, they can then come out of themselves and this isn’t always very pretty. If dogs are coming into “rescue” and then out very quickly, how do they know anything about this dog’s behaviour? A registered dog rescue will have protocols in place to ensure the dogs are assessed and well taken care of.
As there is no regulation of animal rescues at this time, this industry is vulnerable to unethical parties trying to turn a quick profit.

The Current Canine Crisis

Right now, dog rescues are bursting at the seams. There are simply too many dogs being relinquished and not enough spaces in shelters. This has led to desperate owners rehoming dogs on social media or internet sales sites. What’s the problem with that?

Welfare Concerns

Dogs rehomed this way often miss out on crucial vet checks. This means you could end up with a dog who has untreated health issues. 
Dogs are often homed inappropriately for a quick turnover when a registered charity will be wanting to ensure the dog is going to a safe environment for all, and that their needs can be met. Many owners of dogs refused by a legitimate dog rescue turn to unregistered “ rescues” because their criteria aren’t rigid. The criteria required by legitimate rescues are based on animal welfare principles and best practices to ensure the safety of all. 

Behavioural Problems

Without assessment by professional behaviourists or experienced animal rescue organisations, many of these dogs have unresolved behaviour issues. These problems can escalate, making the dogs difficult to handle resulting in them being turned away by proper rescues because of the likelihood the dog will not be able to find a home. This would mean the dog will potentially block spaces for other dogs who would find it easier to be rehomed, or place the responsibility of euthenasia onto the rescue centre. Passing on difficult decisions and costs to organisations who are trying to save dogs is both unethical and unfair.

Profit Motive

Unfortunately, some individuals see this as an opportunity to make a quick buck. They acquire unwanted dogs, then turn around and sell them for a profit, with minimal investment in the dogs’ welfare leaving the problems with the new owner with no back up or support. This isn't just a welfare issue for the dogs, but also their new owners who may now be at risk or be very distressed with the situation.

The Dark Side: Internet Sales

When rescues can’t take in dogs with a bite history or severe behaviour problems, desperate owners often turn to the internet offering dogs for sale. This is where things get really murky. People start selling dogs with significant issues, and buyers end up with more than they bargained for. Meanwhile, the sellers are making a tidy profit with very little expense.

In Conclusion

If you’re thinking about rescuing a dog, do your homework. Check for that registered charity number. Steer clear of rescues that exist solely on social media or sales sites. Remember, a real rescue is about the dogs, not the pounds. By being diligent, you’ll not only find a great furry friend but also support organisations truly dedicated to animal welfare. And that is how you make sure a dog rescue is the real deal.