Searching "Dog Rescue Near Me"? 15 Questions to Ask Before You Adopt or Foster

You've typed "dog rescue near me" into Google. Your heart's ready. Maybe you've been thinking about this for months... or maybe you just saw a photo that broke your heart open.

Either way, you're here. And that's beautiful.

But here's the thing, bringing a rescue dog into your life is one of the most rewarding decisions you'll ever make, and one that deserves some thoughtful questions up front. Not to scare you off. Not to make this harder than it needs to be. Just to make sure you and your future best friend are set up for success.

So before you fill out that application or schedule that meet-and-greet, let's talk about the 15 questions you should ask any dog rescue. These aren't just boxes to check, they're conversation starters that help you understand the dog's story, their needs, and whether your home is the right fit.

Ready? Let's dive in.

Understanding Your Dog's Story

Every rescue dog comes with a history. Some of it is known. Some of it isn't. But the more you understand about where they've been, the better you can support where they're going.

1. How long has the dog been at the rescue?

This tells you a lot. A dog who's been at the rescue for a few weeks might still be adjusting. A dog who's been there for months or years might have specific needs that have made adoption harder, maybe they're older, have medical issues, or need a particular type of home.

Neither is bad. You just want to know what you're working with.

2. Have they been rehomed more than once?

If a dog has bounced between homes, it doesn't mean they're "broken." It might mean they haven't found the right match yet. But it's important to understand why previous placements didn't work out, was it the dog's behavior, or was it the family's circumstances?

3. How did the dog end up at the shelter?

Sometimes dogs are surrendered because of heartbreaking reasons, an owner passed away, a family lost their housing, someone got sick. Sometimes it's behavioral. Sometimes it's simply neglect or abuse.

Knowing their backstory helps you understand their trauma, their fears, and what kind of patience and love they'll need from you.

4. Is there anything else from their history worth mentioning?

This is the catch-all. A good rescue will be honest with you about everything, the stuff that's hard to hear and the stuff that's just quirky. Did they live with cats before? Were they a farm dog? Did they spend time in a shelter before coming to this rescue?

Context matters.

Health and Medical Care: What You Need to Know

You're not just adopting a dog, you're adopting their medical history, their current health status, and their future veterinary needs. Let's get clear on what that looks like.

5. What type of medical care did the dog receive, and are they in good health?

Most reputable rescues provide vaccinations, spay/neuter services, heartworm tests, and basic health screenings. Ask for specifics. If the dog has any ongoing health concerns, you'll want to know now, not three weeks in.

And here’s something people don’t always realize when they’re searching “dog rescue near me”… this medical care is only possible because of donations. The vaccines, tests, exam fees, prevention meds, emergency visits, rehab—every piece of care in a dog’s file has a real cost behind it. Your support is what turns “we hope we can help” into “yes, we can take them in.”

6. Are they on any medication?

Some rescue dogs need ongoing medication for things like anxiety, allergies, or chronic conditions. That's okay! But you need to factor that into your budget and daily routine.

7. Have they had any surgeries or joint issues?

Older dogs or certain breeds might have had surgeries or struggle with joint pain. If your future pup has arthritis or hip dysplasia, you'll want to plan for things like joint supplements, orthopedic beds, and maybe even physical therapy.

8. Do they have any dietary requirements?

Some dogs need special food due to allergies, sensitivities, or medical conditions. Others are fine with standard kibble. Ask what the dog is currently eating and whether there are any foods they need to avoid.

9. What food is the dog currently eating and how much?

This one's practical. Knowing exactly what they're eating now helps you transition them smoothly to your home without upsetting their stomach. Plus, it gives you a sense of monthly food costs.

Behavior and Temperament: The Real Day-to-Day

Here's where you get into the nitty-gritty of daily life with your dog. This is about compatibility, not perfection.

10. Have they shown any fear towards anything?

Fear isn't a dealbreaker. But if your dog is terrified of men, loud noises, or other dogs, you need to know so you can create a safe, supportive environment. Ask the rescue what triggers they've noticed and how the dog responds.

11. What are their energy levels, and how much exercise will they need?

Are you adopting a couch potato or a marathon runner? Some dogs need two walks a day and a game of fetch. Others are happy with a stroll around the block. Make sure their energy matches your lifestyle, or that you're willing to adjust.

12. Are they house trained?

Some rescue dogs come fully house trained. Others... not so much. If accidents are part of the package, are you ready for that? Do you have the time and patience to work on it?

13. What are they like around other dogs, other animals, and children?

This is critical if you have a multi-pet household or kids. Some dogs do great with everyone. Some need to be the only pet. Some love kids. Some are nervous around them. The rescue should be able to give you honest feedback based on their observations.

14. How are they with being left alone?

Separation anxiety is real, and it's common in rescue dogs who've been abandoned or rehomed multiple times. If the dog struggles with being alone, you'll need a plan, whether that's crate training, doggy daycare, or a gradual desensitization process.

One More Question (That's Really About You)

15. Do you have a current veterinarian you use?

Wait, this one's not about the dog. It's about you. Many rescues ask this because it shows you're prepared to provide ongoing care. If you don't have a vet yet, that's okay, just be ready to find one before you bring your new pup home.

Before You Even Pick Up the Phone...

Here's the thing. Before you start asking the rescue all these questions, take a moment to ask yourself a few things:

• Does everyone in your household want a dog?

• Do you meet the rescue's adoption requirements?

• Does your landlord allow pets?

• Can you afford the adoption fee, vet bills, food, and supplies?

• Are you ready for the time commitment, walks, training, companionship?

If the answer to all of those is yes, then you're in a great place. If you're still figuring some of it out, that's okay too. Fostering might be a better starting point.

You're Not Just Asking Questions: You're Building a Relationship

When you ask these 15 questions, you're not being nosy or difficult. You're showing the rescue that you're serious, thoughtful, and ready to give a dog their best life.

And honestly? A good rescue wants you to ask these questions. They want you to know what you're getting into. They want the placement to work. Because every time a dog gets returned, it's heartbreaking: for the dog, for the rescue, and for the family.

So ask away. Take notes. Be honest about what you can and can't handle. And trust that the right dog is out there waiting for you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're in the area and searching for "dog rescue near me," we'd love to talk. At Their Best Life Dog Sanctuary, we're all about matching dogs with the right humans: not just any humans.

But can we be real with you for a second?

All the things you’re wisely asking about in this post—the dog’s medical care, their vet screenings, their medications, and even the history we’re able to learn and document—are possible because people choose to give. Donations are what allow us to say “yes” to the next dog who needs help. They fund the basics… and the hard stuff, too.

If you want to make the biggest, fastest impact today: please donate. Your gift helps cover vet visits, vaccines, heartworm testing, spay/neuter, emergency care, and ongoing treatment—so every dog gets the chance they deserve.

Donate here:https://www.tblds.org/take-action

Still exploring adoption or fostering? We’d love that too… Check out our adoption questionnaire to get started, or read more about what we do and how we support every dog who comes through our doors.

These dogs have been waiting for someone like you. Let’s make sure they get the care—and the future—they’ve been hoping for. 🐾