English Bulldog Rescue in California
From LoveToKnow Dogs
English Bulldog rescue in California plays an important role in supporting a well-loved, popular breed. This volunteer rescue group gives refuge to surrendered or abandoned bulldogs, rehabilitates those dogs that need training and finds new forever homes for those dogs in their care.
About the Breed
History
While the American Kennel Club recognizes the breed under the name Bulldog, it is commonly known as the English Bulldog to differentiate it from its cousin, the French Bulldog. The breed was used originally in the British Isles for bull baiting and dog fighting. After these cruel practices were outlawed in 1835, fans of the Bulldog began breeding it as a companion dog without its original fierceness.
Personality
Bulldogs are loving companion dogs that thrive on human interaction. They do not tolerate isolation well, nor are they "outside" dogs. If bored or isolated too long, they may become destructive and chew for entertainment. They are affectionate, entertaining and stubborn. They enjoy other dogs and people as long as they are respected. Bulldogs are not energetic and should be exercised gently and only for very short walks. They are not excitable and do not usually bark excessively.
Health Issues
There are a variety of health issues that afflict English Bulldogs. Many, but not all, are related to the mouth and nasal structure. Some of the issues include:
- Eye lid abnormalities, such as cherry eye
- Allergies
- Soft palate
- Heart conditions
- Dermatitis
Bulldogs do not tolerate high heat, especially with high humidity. They should never be left outside for long periods when the temperature is over 80 degrees. When they are outside during the warm spring and summer months, they should be watched closely and not allowed to over-exert themselves. They are better kept in air conditioning, with very short trips outside.
Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network
As part of the Bulldog Club of America (BCA), the BCA Rescue Network is a nonprofit organization of devoted volunteers which rescues hundreds of full blooded English Bulldogs each year. The animals that come to the Rescue Network are:
- From owners who are unable or unwilling to care for their dog
- From animal shelters
- Abandoned or lost
The Rescue Network places the dog in a foster home for evaluation and provides medical care and rehabilitation. All rescues are spayed or neutered. The organization then works to find suitable homes.
To adopt a rescue, begin by visiting the BCA Rescue Network website and submit an online application. Volunteers review the application and if a suitable animal is available, they will set up telephone interviews, home visits and a meeting with the prospective pet. Waiting times vary and there is no guarantee that there will be a suitable dog available for every application.
Rescues are usually between four and seven years old. Puppies are rarely available. Adoption donations or fees vary, depending on the location and the dog, usually between $200.00 to $700.00.
English Bulldog Rescue in California
The BCA Rescue Network is organized into local rescue groups and individuals based on geography. The California network has individuals across the state and organizations in Northern California, Southern California and San Diego.
Adoption
If you want to adopt from an English Bulldog Rescue in California, first make sure you have completed the application and read all the required information. Find a rescue representative or organization near you. Email them and ask them to review your application.
Surrendering
If you are unable or unwilling to care for your Bulldog, contact a nearby rescue rep or organization. Explain your situation honestly. They will ask for information on your dog regarding:
- Behavior
- Likes and dislikes
- Medical history
- Aggressive tendencies
- Daily routine, such as sleeping and eating
Allow some time because they will have to locate a foster home for your dog. Be willing to provide a picture of your dog since they only accept purebred English Bulldogs. They will provide a surrender form that will be signed by you and the rescue representative. This form, once signed, establishes that you relinquish your ownership and rights to the dog.
Bulldogs are a charming breed and deserve a loving and stable home. When life's situation changes, a Bulldog rescue can find new, good homes for these wonderful companions.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 183 times. This page was last modified 16:27, 21 September 2009.
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