Brother Wolf Tips

If you are expecting a juicy piece of gossip, I hate to disappoint you.  It is no secret that I am a great supporter –and frequent visitor – of Brother Wolf.  Over the years, I have learned a few tips when visiting the shelter and want to share them with you.

When you visit the shelter, do not expect all the animals on the website to be at the shelter.  (Ok, maybe this is not a big secret, since they disclose it on the website.)  The shelter environment is very stressful.  The dogs and cats are confused about their noisy surroundings, the change in routine, the loss of the family, et cetera.  Brother Wolf has foster families who take some of the animals for a night or a long-term visit.  If you are interested in a particular animal, it is best to call the shelter first and see if he or she is at the shelter.  The staff can provide you with contact information if the animal is in foster care.

The next tip is that there are better times than others to visit.  Look on the website before you go.  On Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, some of the dogs are out for hikes with Outward Hounds.  They seem to be gone for a couple of hours when they do.  A particular dog in which you might be interested may be out on a hike, so call before you visit.

The hikes are great for two reasons.  If the dog is not on the hike, you will find the shelter to be much quieter while the other dogs are gone.  On the other hand, if your dog is on a hike, find out when he/she will be back.  The dog should be much more relaxed after all that exercise.

Also, if you are counting on meeting dogs at an adoption event, consider the weather.  They tend to send fewer dogs, if any at all, on cold, snowy, or rainy days.  It might be better to visit the shelter instead.  This seems to be more of an issue in the winter time, as you would expect.

The last tip involves your interaction with the animals there.  They have hand sanitizer everywhere; use it after touching every animal and/or surface.  You will help prevent the spread of disease between animals.

You will see treat buckets attached to some kennels.  Even if you are not interested in a particular dog, it teaches the dog manners so give him/her a goodie.  The dogs know that they are supposed to sit for the treat and will oftentimes do it without you having to ask.  A gorgeous pit bull named Miss Piggy will even stare at the bucket, reminding you to give her a goodie.

I hope these tips help you find your buddy.  Good luck!

Rescue Mommy