While international dog adoption is definitely an option, there are some things you should know first. For starters, you should be wary about anything you see online. You may see a rare breed (like a woolly French Bulldog) advertised for a low, low price, but without meeting with the owner and seeing the dog for yourself, you should reconsider before putting down a deposit. There are many scammers who wouldn’t think twice about taking your money, then “ghosting”.
Here are some considerations before adopting a dog internationally.
1. There Are Many Dogs in Shelters Here
Most local animal shelters have an abundance of dogs available and ready to be adopted. Some will argue that a person should rescue a dog from their own area before looking abroad for dogs to import.
While international adoption may be controversial, saving a dog from a life on the street or in any shelter cannot be denied as a good deed. If you feel drawn to a particular dog and know that you can provide a safe and loving home, rest assured that you have no need to feel guilty.
Dogs in the United States will most likely end up in a shelter or foster home if they do not have a family of their own. However, many countries have large numbers of stray dogs that roam the streets and countryside without adequate care or shelter systems to house them. This is indeed a global problem that international adoption can alleviate.
2. The Dog Market Is Full of Scammers
Unfortunately, any situation steeped in high emotion is a prime hunting ground for predators. Pet adoption has become a target for lucrative scammers, especially when you don’t have the opportunity to see your dog in person before your transaction.
Optimistic pet adopters have received a completely different dog than they expected. Dogs have arrived with falsified health records and significant medical issues. And tragic backstories have been created when really, the dogs simply originated from a disreputable foreign puppy mill.
It is easy to fall prey to these deceptions when you are already in love with your new potential pup. The good news is that there are trusted rescue organizations that you can work with to ensure the best possible outcome for you and the vulnerable dog you’re hoping to bring home.
3. Government Regulations Could Apply
Of course, international dog adoption is not as simple as finding and importing a pet. There are hoops you’ll need to jump through and rules meant to protect the general health and welfare of the dog population.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has banned the import of dogs from certain countries to prevent spreading diseases in the United States. Dog rabies is eradicated in the U.S., so if your dream dog lives in a banned country where dog rabies is still a threat, crossing the border could prove complicated. For the health and safety of all involved parties, there is an abundance of veterinary screening paperwork to do before adoption.
The bureaucratic red tape to get your international dog into your arms and on the end of your leash will take significantly more time than a local adoption. Be patient, though. Any cut corners could lead to your dog being sent back to his home country at your own expense. That would be just one more heartbreaking tragedy for your dog, so do right by him and double-check that you and the rescue organization are following proper protocol.
Once on your home turf, your dog may be subject to mandatory quarantine. You’ll just have to wait a little longer for those first furry snuggles.
4. Adopting Internationally Can Prove Expensive
Of course, international dog adoption is much more costly than finding a dog locally. Local adoption typically includes basic health screenings and a designated return period in case you aren’t a good match. A local dog adoption generally costs a few hundred dollars.
Travel costs must be considered when you’re bringing a dog from another country. Often, international rescue organizations work with volunteers who escort the dog to the home destination. If air travel is involved, you may expect to pay thousands of dollars for this accommodation and wait until a traveler agrees to be a volunteer.
5. Unexpected Surprises Could Complicate Matters
Even after extensive health screenings before transport, your dog may arrive with health or behavior problems that you’ll be responsible for resolving. Whether some details are lost in translation or intentionally misled, this is an opportunity to expect the unexpected.
Before your dog arrives, make an appointment with your vet to secure a comprehensive check-up. He will have undergone weeks or even months of quarantine by the time you finally get to scratch his scruffy little head, but you’ll still want to rule out any illness or disease.
You may not know your dog’s complete life history. He may have been a stray with no socialization with people in a relaxed home environment, so assuming he’ll fit right into your life may not go smoothly. Patience and ongoing training will be essential to teach your dog how to live a domestic life.
Adopting a dog is saving a life. Of course, international adoption can be difficult, controversial, and costly. As a responsible dog owner, consider the benefits, weigh the risks, and decide if it’s right for you. Whatever dog you bring into your home will be lucky to have you!
