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I think it was Myranda who asked for advice on finding homes for stray
puppies.

Here is what I would do. Start looking for a reputable animal rescue
organization in your area. The Humane Society is good, BUT, they often get
overloaded with animals and it becomes difficult for them to place them all.
Sometimes, you have to get on a waiting list for the Humane Society to take the
animal. Often, there are other, privately ran, non-profit animal rescue groups
that can take the puppies. Usually, these groups have several foster families
who care for animals until they are placed. You may be able to foster the
puppies yourself until they are placed.. Or, if that is not an option, they will
place them with a family who is equipped to foster them. Rescue groups
typically have the animals vaccinated, and have them sterilized. If an animal is
sick, they nurse it back to health before they place it. Usually, there is an
adoption fee that helps them cover the cost of care for the animal. A
good animal rescue group screens the adoptive familes, and has them sign a
contract stating that they can reclaim the animal if they find out the contract has
been broken. Animal rescue groups place dogs through several avenues. They
may use the 'adopt-a-pet" programs at pet supply stores. Most of them also
have web sites with thier available animals listed with pictures. Here is
the link to the rescue group I have worked with in my area.

http://www.petfinder.org/shelters/NC11.html

Look online, in the yellow pages, and perhaps call local vets for referrals
for a good local animal rescue group. Also, you may find some good resources
in some Yahoo groups. I was once on an animal rescue group, but now I cant
remember the name of it. Anyway, with a little research, you can probably find
some folks who can help you out.

I think most anything is a better alternative to taking them to the pound.
The rescue groups I know sometimes rescue animals from the pound if they think
they have a chance of finding a home for them. Good luck!

Teresa


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