(These are some of the questions we get on a fairly regular basis. If you have a question that doesn't appear here - and think it should - write to us at webmaster@wrnt.org and we'll include it!)
Essentially, the application process is complete upon entering your information into our database. Normally, we have every application ready for access within a 24- to 48-hour period. We are an entirely volunteer-based organization, so this time may change - but usually we're fairly quick in getting new applicants into the active process.
There is no real answer to that question - at least not one measured in days or weeks. When we have a dog who needs a Foster or Forever home whose needs align with your desires, we will contact you. Usually, when we have an available dog, we'll either call or email all those applicants who are suitable for that dog. Remember, our goal is to meet the dogs' needs first, matching them to the best environment. Most Westies in the WRNT program have already been through an awful lot of trauma - emotionally and often physically - and it is their needs we have to consider first.
We ask for a $200.00 minimum donation for all adoptions facilitated by WRNT. In 80% of our adoptions, this amount is far less than we spend to rehabilitate and return them to health. Any amount you wish to donate over the minimum request is very much appreciated, and is eligible for favorable tax treatment as WRNT is a registered 501(c)(3) NonProfit organization.
Fostering is an integral part of the adoption process. Sometimes we are able to do a "home-to-home" placement, but most dogs we receive require at least a brief period of foster care. This gives us an opportunity to get more insight into the Westies personality and needs, and helps us in a successful permanent placement.
Dogs remain in foster care for different amounts of time; between a few days and up to several months for Westies with significant health problems. Once they are ready for permanent placement we match that Westie with the prospective adopters we have on file so we can obtain the best match.
If you would be interested in fostering, please fill out the regular Adoption Application. There is a question on the first page asking about fostering. Once we receive your application, we will get in touch with you about setting up a time when we can come meet you and your pets, to see what type of foster Westies would fit in well with your family.
We strive to place every rescue Westie in his or her "forever home", but things don't always work out as planned. If, at any time, you decide your adopted Westie is not going to fit in with your family, lifestyle or other pets, we will take him back. In fact, when you complete an Adoption Agreement you must agree, if you ever decide to give up your Westie, to return them Westie Rescue of North Texas.
We want you to love your Westie as much as he's going to love you, so if it doesn't work out, just let us know!
Besides purebred Westies, we also get a number of Westie mixes. Depending on the dogs' circumstances, sometimes we place the dog in foster care like a purebred Westie. Or, if they are in a safe shelter environment, we send out e-mails to people who have completed adoption applications that specified they would consider a Westie mix. This e-mail will describe where the dog is located, and whatever information we know about them from the shelter.
No, when we take a Westie into our program he is given a full set of shots (including bordatella, or kennel cough), is checked to make sure he is Heartworm negative, and is spayed or neutered, if required. We will also give you that Westie's records that show when all this was completed so you'll have it to share with your vet.
We suggest after you adopt a Westie from us you take him to your vet for a check-up and visit, but he won't need any vaccination shots or injections at that visit.
Yes, If you don't keep them on heartworm preventative. Since heartworm preventatives are safe, effective and affordable there is no meaningful or practical reason any dog should ever get heartworms.
No, Just because the dog is housebroken here doesn't mean you won't have a problem at your home. All dogs need to be supervised as they first enter your home. They need to be shown which door is the correct one for outside potty and if they've never used a doggy door before, how to use one. We also recommend with a male to put a belly band or diaper on him for the first day, to prevent marking of his new territory. That way all his marking are in something that can be disposed of as opposed to your walls and furniture. This way you can also scold him when you see him raise his leg.
No. Not anymore than we as humans shed. All animals shed to some degree, however, since Westies don't get a winter coat shedding is not typically a major problem. Of course, a dog that is well groomed and bathed regularly will shed even less!
No, not generally or without provocation. However, no dog should be left unsupervised around small children. Often children "play" with small animals in ways that could provoke a negative response. If a child should decide to pick up the dog by its ears or tail it is likely to nip, regardless of the breed. In general, Westies are friendly, affable companions - but will defend themselves if necessary.
You can go where WRNT goes for all our Veterinary Care. Go to our Veterinarians page on this site and you'll see information on A&B Animal Clinic, Josey Ranch Pet Hospital and West Creek Animal Clinic. While many Veterinarians are familiar with Westies and the ailments that are common to them, WRNT has found the vets we work with to be especially mindful of the emotional and physical trauma visited upon many of the Westies we care for. No matter which Veterinarian you choose, it's imperative that you treat your Westie's health with the same seriousness you have for your own wellbeing. After all, a Westie is not a toy, it's a living, breathing being - worthy of your concern, your time and your best efforts.