What should adopting families be prepared for?
Adopting a dog is a major commitment—especially for families. We want parents and kids to go into the experience with open eyes and open hearts. That means being prepared for early wake-ups, accidents in the house, training setbacks, and regular vet visits. It also means having a plan for who walks the dog, feeds them, and helps with training. The most successful adoptions happen when everyone in the household is on board and ready to pitch in.
What are the 3 most important things for people to consider before adopting?
- Lifestyle compatibility – Your family’s routine should be a good fit for a dog’s needs. Think energy level, work/school schedules, and availability for training and enrichment. Are you an active household or more laid-back? The right dog will thrive in a home that mirrors their rhythm.
- Age-appropriate involvement – Are your kids ready to help with basic tasks like feeding, walking, or helping with training games? Including children in the caregiving process not only builds empathy—it sets the stage for a strong, respectful bond between them and the dog.
- Commitment to training – Much like children, dogs benefit from going to school and learning. Dogs don’t come home knowing the rules. They need consistency, structure, and positive reinforcement. When families don’t commit to training, it often leads to behavior issues and frustration. But training can actually be fun! From teaching “sit” to learning loose-leash walking, every small success creates connection—and kids love being part of that progress.
How to know when a dog is right for you?
It’s not about the cutest face or most popular breed. It’s about energy, temperament, and whether the dog’s needs align with your family’s life. At Lucky Dog Refuge, we take the time to make thoughtful matches—because a well-matched adoption is a successful one. What personality fits your household best—playful and goofy or calm and cuddly? Do you want a jogging buddy or a couch potato who loves watching Bravo as much as you do? Or maybe you want a dog that can do both! A dog is a family member, and when everyone helps make the choice, the bond is that much stronger.
Are there options available before committing?
Yes! We highly recommend trying out our Lucky Dog Refuge Volunteer Program. Volunteering is a great way to fill that void if you’re not ready (emotionally or situationally) to commit. During a volunteer session, you’ll get to take a dog out for a one-hour walk around Harbor Point—it’s a fun, easy way to spend time with rescue dogs, get to know their personalities, and see what might fit best in your home. It’s a great weekend activity, and dogs love the one-on-one time.
We are dependent on and very grateful for financial donations, but we also know that not everyone is in a position to give, especially if they are saving up for a dog of their own. There are so many ways you can engage in your community to help give back!
1. Check if your employer will match your donation – the ultimate life saving BOGO!
2. Start a fundraiser on social media or in your neighborhood for your birthday or other life milestones.
3. Remember that as little as $5 can already make a huge difference.
4. If you have lost a pet, donate your old pet supplies that are still in good condition.
5. Volunteer your time walking dogs
Fostering is also an amazing option for families. You’ll provide a safe, temporary home for a dog in need while learning what it takes to care for one full-time.
How can kids get involved and learn about animal welfare and compassion?
For both the safety of the people and the dogs alike, our age minimum for volunteer dog walking is 14 years or older and those under 17 must be supervised by a chaperone. But for those of age, it is a wonderful opportunity for parents and their teens to spend quality time together outside and with a dog in need.
There are other ways for younger children to make a difference! Many have collected supplies at their schools, hosted lemonade stands or bake sales or asked for donations in lieu of presents for a birthday or holiday (which has the added bonus of being a clutter-free gift!). Parents who have held fundraisers with their kids say it was a great opportunity for their children to learn about responsibility and giving back. When the kids bring their donations to the rescue, we schedule it in advance so that the staff are there to greet them and take a photo with a child-friendly pup!
Another great opportunity are service projects. One local teenager, Owen Herz, recently fundraised and built a much-needed donations shed for Lucky Dog Rescue as part of his Eagle Scout program. It was a fun and meaningful way for the teens to organize, plan, engage, and work together as a team for a good cause. And a number of the dads got involved too!
What do you want people to know about you and what you do?
You don’t have to buy a puppy from a breeder to find the perfect companion. At Lucky Dog Refuge, we believe in second chances—and we believe that adoption saves lives. Every dog in our care has a story, and each one deserves a future filled with love and safety. Our team works around the clock to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome dogs that might otherwise be overlooked.