Registered with a shelter today :-)

[twinkletoedelephant]

We have finally got to a point where we can look after a dog and went and registered at the shelter today.

They didn't have many dogs in and most of them were reserved so there wasn't any we could really look at but we are all so excited.

Is there anything we should be getting or should we wait and see which dog chooses us and work around doggy?

Look at other rescues in your area or even further away if you can.

Check the rescue you've signed up with. Do they have a good reputation? How do they look after the dogs? Are they taken on walks or socialised at all? Do they offer any back up after adoption - services of a behaviourist etc? Do they have an FB group? If so, join it as you will get more of a feeling for how they are (ditto for any other rescues you find).

Check in often and try and get a conversation going with some of the volunteers so they know what sort of dog you're looking for, so they'll think of you if one comes in. Difficult as they're prob very busy but worth a try.

It's. Branch of battersea there were lots of volunteers and the kennels were spotless.

It's only ten minutes up the road so I may become a frequent visitor ;-)

If you have had the interview and been approved I would keep an eye on the Battersea website in case something appropriate comes up at one of the other sites . What sort of dog are you looking for ?

Medium dog no lurchers or greyhounds (dh saw one get our cat on the fields where we use to live)

We have found a girl 1 on a small rescue site shes originally from Romania and is very very nervous of men. Great with cats kids after she gets to know them.
Dh read her story and sent me her picture he has also said he would be willing to put the time in with her to build up a bond and let her see that hes ok, and wanted to give her a good home after what she has gone through.
I can see her in our house already.
I am at home all day so it would be me and her most of the time with dh and the kids after school/work.

We have put in an application so fingers crossed we will pass the checks ;+)

If you have cats and kids I would try a rescue that fosters. Like black retriever x. They will also offer support if you have any difficulties.
Consider vets and possible kennel or doggy daycare or training classes if you might need those.

Training classes yes. The rescue offers lots in support or at least suggested they do.
We have a fab vet already for the cat so that would be ok obviously she/he would be insured.