Weds 19th July: No long-term commitment, no adoption

One of the 2 golden retrievers

Two new golden retrievers are expected to be arriving this week from a breeder, and we were told they're both four years old although that will need to be verified once they're with us.

A one year-old poodle is also coming, and the reason for this little dog's lucky escape is that she (I'm assuming female) has a leg problem that will need surgery, maybe even amputation. As far as the poodle's concerned three working legs is a far better option than carrying along a useless fourth, but we'll see what Dr Tony can do in terms of repair of course.

Let's see how we can fix this little guy up

There was another unexpected newcomer to our Ap Lei Chau Homing Centre, a little peke with a variety of lumps and bumps to match his fleas and dirty matted hair.  There was a note attached to him saying he was nine years old and needs surgery but the owner can't afford to pay the vet bills. Let's see what can be done to fix him up and make him adoptable.  We started with a bath and a haircut, and getting rid of the fleas of course.

Nana is exactly 1 year old

We have also received a surrender request for a young dog, now exactly a year old, who was adopted from us as a baby puppy just last year, and once again I'm left feeling frustrated and yes, angry.  This is an expat couple, one of whom has unexpectedly lost his job, forcing the pair to leave Hong Kong and with nowhere for the dog to go. I say unexpectedly because that's the word that was used, but as every expat on a contract knows, there is no certainty attached.  I don't at all doubt the sincerity of the apologies, or the fact that giving up their dog after such a short time wasn't planned, and my anger is in part directed at myself for letting a puppy go to a situation where this might happen.   There is a specific question included on the Adoption Questionnaire regarding this matter but that is quickly forgotten, and really all I care about is the fact that a young dog is about to be made homeless.  Maybe someone is looking for a dog that has already been living in a home, and if so please consider Nana.  Email me at sally@hongkongdogrescue.com or complete the Adoption Questionnaire on our website www.hongkongdogrescue.com (under Adopt).

And please, if you are not a permanent Hong Kong resident and know that at some time you will be leaving, either factor in the cost and practicalities of taking your dog with you or don't adopt at all. Fostering is a perfect option for those who can't commit long-term, and it works for both sides.