Why NOT to Put Dogs On Craigslist!

This story (read story, watch video below) is a horrible example of why it is not safe to put dogs, especially pit bulls, onto Craigslist! It is extremely difficult for owners to surrender their pit bulls. Shelters and rescue organizations (we alone get an average of 5-10 surrender requests per/day) are most often filled to capacity. In Massachusetts, Animal Control Officers (ACO’s) have a 10-day hold up. Because of these difficulties, desperate owners, often times with good intentions, place ads for their dogs on Craigslist hoping to find them a good home while avoiding the likely possibility that their dog will get put down if brought to a shelter.

Trying to re-home a dog on Craigslist may seem like an easy way out, but unfortunately it’s just not a reliable option. When we adopt a dog out to a new family, we go through an extremely strict screening process consisting of 2 interviews with the potential adopters, a visit to their home, and reference checks with their veterinarian. These are crucial steps in insuring that the dog will be placed in a loving home and will not be used for breeding and/or the cruel sport of dog fighting.

So the dilemma is… what does someone do if they “need” to surrender their dog and they can’t find a reputable shelter or rescue organization to take it? My recommendation is to start by reconsidering the notion of giving up the dog in the first place.  There are several options for even the most difficult situations (ie. moving, having a baby, allergies, insurance coverage). The sad truth is that only 1 in 600 pit bulls will make it out of a shelter and into a forever home so it’s the owner’s responsibility to do what is best for their dog.

Pit Bull Rescue Central offers this extremely helpful/important information to those considering giving up their dog:

Losing Your Home

Placing Your Pit Bull For Adoption

If you are completely out of options and re-homing your dog is a necessity, please follow these important guidelines also set up by Pit Bull Rescue Central.

Finding a safe, responsible home for a pit bull takes 6-12 months, on average. Many people want pit bulls for breeding or fighting or as yard/guard dogs. Doing the following will help ensure a pit bull finds a good home:

• Spay/neuter the dog prior to adoption.
• Ask for and check veterinary references.
• Do not adopt to anyone under 25 years of age.
• Give preference to homeowners.
• Conduct a home visit.
• Adopt pit bulls as only pets or with a compatible dog of the opposite sex.
• Be mindful of breed-specific legislation.
• Ask an adoption fee of at least $100.

*Video: Warning: Graphic Material