Collie Rescue Foundation, Inc. (CRF)

Recommended Collie Rescue Procedural Guidelines

While the Collie Rescue Foundation (CRF) Board of Directors does not govern or dictate policies and procedures of the Volunteer Rescue Organizations or Individuals, the following guidelines are recommended in developing rescue programs.

Temperament:

A careful and thorough evaluation should be made of the temperament and behavior of any dog coming into or referred through a rescue network. We want to uphold the Collie’s reputation as an ideal family and companion dog, and not pose unnecessary risks to adopters.

Health:

The CRF recommends that care be taken before placing a dog with health problems that will detrimentally affect the quality of the dog’s life. As guardians of our breed, euthanasia is not a solution we choose lightly. When faced with a health problem that compromises the dog’s quality of life, it is the rescue organization or individual’s decision and responsibility to humanely help him across the rainbow bridge.

Age:

The CRF urges rescue organizations and individuals to refer geriatric dogs in good health for placement rather than foster them. Geriatric dogs are generally more difficult to re-home than younger dogs. Time and available space must be taken into consideration, as the geriatrics sometimes take longer to find an adoptive family. Also consider the health and environment the older dog has been in. Coming from one home and no moves since puppyhood, into a cage at a foster home may not be in the best interest of the dog. Also consider, as you would any rescue, the health and environment of the senior/geriatric dog and his/her ability to adapt to new situations and environment. To encourage the adoption of geriatric dogs CRF encourages rescue organizations or individuals to waive or reduce adoption fees on a dog adopted later by the same adopter. All adoptions, no matter age, should be in the best interest of the dog.

Spay/Neuter:

It is a must that healthy adult rescued Collies be spayed/neutered before placement. Or: If a dog must be placed intact due to a medical reason or age, the adopter will be thoroughly educated on the risks of an accidental breeding. A written agreement signed by the adopter will outline precautions and actions taken to prevent the accidental or intentional breeding of the dog. It will also require the adopter to spay/neuter the dog as soon as the medical condition is resolved, or at the agreed upon age. Every effort will be made to stay in contact with the adopter to ensure the agreement is fulfilled. Sterilization deposits may be considered if puppies less than six (6) months of age are placed before spaying or neutering. A strict sterilization policy must be followed in these cases.

Pregnant Bitches:

Occasionally a pregnant bitch will come into Rescue. While the CRF recommends spaying and the litter aborted, there are circumstances where this is not a feasible solution. If the pregnancy is too advanced, or the bitch’s health would be jeopardized by an immediate operation, the rescue organization or individual must use their best judgment and veterinarian’s advice as to whether or not to spay or whelp the litter. If it is decided to whelp the litter, the foster home will be informed of all responsibilities and will agree to provide proper care during gestation, whelping, and puppy rearing. Ideally, puppies will not be placed before eight weeks of age. Puppies will be placed with a spay/neuter agreement and deposit.

Incorporation:

Although not a requirement to participate in the CRF Rescue Network, CRF strongly recommends every rescue organization or individual be incorporated.

Not for Profit Status:

Although not a requirement to participate in the CRF Rescue Network, CRF strongly recommends every rescue organization or individual seek not for profit status with the Internal Revenue Service.

Adoption Fees:

Since veterinary expenses vary from state to state, each group should set placement fees that will cover the average veterinary and overhead expenses when the dog is placed.

Limits:

Individuals should recognize and define personal limits and stick to them. If an individual is only able to foster one or two dogs, that person should not take the third one. There are many aspects to rescue that assistance is needed-help maintain a website, take phone calls, make a donation, or provide transportation. Any effort devoted to contributing to rescue will be appreciated.