What is the LRRO?

Labrador Retriever Rescue Ontario is a volunteer-staffed, non-profit organization. Our mission is to rescue, foster, and adopt out unwanted, abused/mistreated, neglected, or abandoned Pure Bred Labrador Retriever dogs. LRRO is similar in nature to other humane groups, and animal rescue organizations howbeit with a specific focus on the Labrador Retriever breed. The dogs rescued by LRRO live with foster families where they are evaluated, spayed, neutered, and appropriately cared for until they are adopted.

Where do the Labs in the program come from?

Most of the dogs come from owners who for some reason are no longer able to keep them. Some dogs may come from local shelters, humane societies, or veterinarians. Occasionally we may be called upon to remove a Labrador from an abusive situation. We take steps to screen program dogs for health and temperament problems, but try to help all Labradors. All dogs are examined by a veterinarian, and vaccinated/spayed/neutered if necessary prior to adoption. The dogs are usually about one to six years of age, and it is rare that puppies are available.

Why would someone give up their Lab?

People sometimes buy a dog for the wrong reasons, or on impulse, and then find that they are unprepared for the time, effort, and patience needed to care for it. A change in the owners health, marital, family, or financial status may require them to find a new home for their dog. Many people simply have to relocate, and are unable to take their dog with them. It is our goal to give these displaced dogs another chance to find happiness.

 

How do I adopt a Lab from the LRRO?

Fill out one of our adoption applications thinking of the dog you would prefer in terms of temperament rather than age, sex or colour. Consider all aspects of your life, and picture a dog that will complement and enhance your lifestyle. Are you an active person, or on the quiet side? Do you have other pets, or children? An accurate, and complete description of your life will help us to match you up with the right Labrador. Shortly after receiving your application a volunteer will call you. When we've found a suitable dog(s) an adoption volunteer will contact you, and visit you in your home to answer any questions you may have. There is a minimum fee of $250 requested with the adoption of every dog under seven years of age. Fees for senior dogs or dogs with special needs are determined on an individual basis. This money helps to cover veterinarian and administration expenses the organization incurs. This practice also helps to ensure adoption only by those persons who are seriously committed to caring for a Labrador.
The waiting period for a dog can vary depending on a number of factors. The period can usually be shortened if you are flexible about the age, sex, and colour of the dog.

What happens if the adoption just doesn't work out?

When evaluating and placing our dogs we take great care to match the right new owner with the right dog. Occasionally this doesn't work out the way we expected. If this happens the dog must be returned to the LRRO as per the adoption contract that the new owner must sign prior to adoption. Adopted dogs must never be sold, or given away, even to other family members or friends.

Why are the Labs from the LRRO always spayed/neutered?

The LRRO finds homes for Labradors with people who desire a pet, and companion. There are enough unwanted dogs in the world, and breeding is best left to the professionals who have the time, facilities, and expertise needed for the breeding business, and who are committed to the improvement of the breed.

Should I take my Lab to obedience classes?

Absolutely!! Even if the dog you adopt is trained, training classes will help you to communicate, and bond with your dog, establishing a relationship of mutual respect. Training classes also provide your dog with the opportunity to socialize with other dogs and people. Remember a well trained dog is welcome in far more places, and situations than a dog that is unruly and out of control, and much more enjoyable to be around. Please ask us for further information about the availability of training classes in your area.

Are there any requirements for the adoption

           of a LRRO Lab?

Each dog in the LRRO program is very special to us, and we take extreme care to ensure that they are placed in the best homes. Some of our requirements are meant to protect the dog, or your family members. Please read the adoption contract and information sheet carefully.

1. We do not place dogs in homes with children, unless we know that the dog is accustomed to children.

2. Adoptive homes must have a fenced yard or appropriate dog run. Tying your dog to a post or clothesline, or promising to always accompany your dog outside are not acceptable substitutes.

3. You must keep your dog as a household pet, and companion, not for breeding or some other purpose.

4. We do not adopt out dogs to situations where they will be kept outside all the time, or spend a great deal of time away from people.

5. You must keep the dog in good health, and provide good care, including necessary veterinary attention. We recommend that you have your dog microchipped for identification purposes with the PETNET system, or any other pet microchip system. This is a network of municipal animal shelters, humane societies and veterinarians linked together to return lost or stolen pets. It is also recommended that you put your dog on a heartworm program. If your dog is not housebroken or completely reliable in the house when unattended, we advocate the use of appropriate crates for training, and safety.

What if I have further questions?

LRRO volunteers are available to answer any questions you may have before, during and after the adoption process. Please don't hesitate to call. We have a follow-up program to ensure that all involved in the adoption are happy and thriving, and to provide any needed information that we can!

For further information, and/or an adoption application please contact:

Labrador Retriever Rescue Ontario
Suite 254
268 Lakeshore Rd. E.
Oakville, Ontario
L6J 7S4

Copyright© LRRO 2001