Adopting Golden Retrievers

Get the Scoop on a Golden Opportunity

If you’ve always dreamed of making a golden retriever part of your life you’re not alone. Just as with many pets, however, owners are sometimes forced to give up these wavy-haired golden beauties.

The good news is that these cherished dogs can ultimately be adopted by qualified families and individuals.

Saving the Day

Golden retrievers are the fourth most registered dog, according to American Kennel Club. These statistics are part of the reason there are as many as 60 organizations dedicated to caring for this breed across the county. People are drawn to golden retrievers without necessarily educating themselves on the needs of these big hunting dogs.

Specialty breed groups bring together a collective of people with expertise from healthcare to dog training, showing and breeding. So when the current owner of a golden retriever has to give up their pup pending any variety of circumstances (divorce, relocation or medical issues) these experts can offer protection and a safe home.

The Golden Retriever Club of Greater Los Angeles Rescue is a prime example of an organization that rescues goldens. Volunteers comb animal shelters daily and are responsible for taking sick dogs to the hospital or finding foster homes for these dogs. They also train, help socialize and, ultimately, help find good homes for these misplaced pups. You can check online for local rescue groups in your area, or contact a veterinary clinic to find out if they know of a golden retriever rescue organization close by.

The Golden Retriever Club of Greater Los Angeles Rescue has anywhere from 25 to 60 dogs up for adoption at any given time.

Homeward Bound

To learn how golden retriever adoption processes generally work, we turned to Barbara Davis, president of the Golden Retriever Club of Greater Los Angeles Rescue.

The first step, says Davis, is filling out a detailed application online with some 45 questions intended to help match potential owners with pets. Some organizations ask people to apply for a specific animal available. At GRCGLAR, volunteers aim to pair dogs with owners who needs and qualifications match. For example, an older dog might be better in a home without stairs and a field bred hunting dog needs room to get plenty of physical activity.

Candidates get a visit from a volunteer who will do a “home check.” This is an opportunity for potential owners to learn about what their pet needs to live a safe and healthy life as well as ensure they’re ready for the responsibility.

The average range for adopting golden retrievers from GRCGLAR is about $200 to $400 depending on age. The organization has anywhere from 25 to 60 dogs up for adoption at any given time. About 10 percent of the dogs they take in are seriously injured or ill, says Davis.

Finding Golden Retrievers

“For adopters who have the privilege of bringing one of our miracle dogs into their lives, there is no greater joy then basking in the love and devotion and fun only a rescued golden retriever is empowered to carry along,” said GRCGLAR Board member Denise Buczek.

To find a rescue organization in you area, visit the Golden Retriever Club of America Web site for a list of referrals.

If you liked this story, read more about golden retrievers.