You’re ready to bring a dog that needs a home into your life. Good for you. After doing your research, perhaps you’ve decided on a Poodle or Poodle-mix for their intelligence, friendliness and beauty. There are tens of thousands of Poodles who need homes in all-pet animal shelters and Poodle rescue groups. Yes, Poodles have their own rescue groups because of the needs of the breed.

Most people don’t realize the extensive grooming needs that a Poodle has. They just see a cute puppy and impulsively buy it. No pet store or online puppy broker will check to see that a Poodle buyer knows even rudimentary Poodle information. However, a Poodle rescue group will not only be a treasure chest of Poodle information, but information about each dog up for adoption. They take the time to get to know the dog’s likes and dislikes. This is impossible in the harried and crowded environment of an all-pet animal shelter.
When you have definitely decided on a Poodle or Poodle mix, take a deep breath and go online. You can try to find local Poodle rescue groups by entering your state or city name along with the words poodle rescue on your favorite search engine. But the fastest way is to go to an all-breed site like Petfinder.com or 1-800-Save-a-pet.com. You can usually see photos and read biographies on the Poodles up for adoption.

You can also find Poodle rescue groups in your area by asking your local animal rescue shelter, your vet or leafing through a dog magazine. You could also ask the Poodle Club of America for a list of local rescues in your area or email them for a list. If you use snail mail, please be sure to enclose a SASE (self addressed stamped envelope) to ensure a reply. If you go to a local dog show, you might ask around to discover any recommendations, as well as find out more Poodle information in general.
Don’t get carried away by every story you read. You are best contacting the Poodle rescue group and filling out an application, which usually asks for your character references and a non-refundable application fee. Be sure to have a vet figured out beforehand. They will then help match the dog they have to your needs, temperament and lifestyle. This helps for the person who has trouble making decisions, or who picks a dog out of pity more than compatibility. Be patient, a Poodle that is properly matched to your lifestyle will ensure that you won’t have to give the dog back to the rescue group.

Poodle rescue groups tend to prefer people with past Poodle experience and a fenced-in yard. They also prefer people who don’t mind an older dog (one past seven years of age). Since Poodles average about sixteen years of age, seven isn’t so old. You will most likely have your home checked by a volunteer for the Poodle rescue group. You also will most likely have to provide all transportation as well.

Articles about Poodle rescue dogs can make more people aware of the great animals in shelters. Finding good Poodle information is as easy as visiting your local library.