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How long do I have to wait for a Westie?

The answer to this question depends on many factors including:

  • Your specific requirements (sex, age, health etc.)
  • How many dogs we have in the program.
  • How many approved adopters we have on our list.
  • How many dogs come into the program from the time you apply.

The more open you are to different options when it comes the dog's age, sex, health and behavior the easier it will be to place a dog with you.

 

Do you have any dogs available right now?

Although we usually have dogs in the program they might not be a good fit for you and your family. We don't discuss any dogs currently in the program until you complete the application process. Once you do then we'll call you with information about any Westies in the program that we think will be a match.

Do you have a Shelter where dogs can be viewed?

We do not own or operate a Shelter or Kennel where you can see our dogs.  All of our dogs are in Foster homes, located throughout our geographic area of responsibility, until they are adoptede.  After an applicant has sucessfully completed our entire adoption process, and we believe we have a dog for them, they and their entire family (and dogs) will be invited to the Foster's home for a meet-and-greet with the Westie.  

What does the adoption fee include?

Our adoption fee is $550 and offsets some of the expenses we incur to ensure thatour dogs are healthy, neutered/spayed, and microchipped before adoption. The fee also goes toward any procedures the dog needs such as dental work, specific medical tests, surgery and/or post surgical rehabilitation. 

Is there a reduced fee for older dogs, multiple dogs or dogs with medical issues?

We often waive a portion of the adoption fee for senior or special needs Westies who will require extra or ongoing care. We also offer reduced fees for pairs of Westies adopted together.

 

Does Westie Rescue offer any "free" dogs"?

"No".  We cannot, in good conscience, ask for donations from our loyal and generous donors and then give dogs away.  There is a fee for all adoptions.  We do waive a portion of the Adoption fee for special needs and older dogs, and for adoptions by long-time WRN foster parents and other volunteers.  The WRN Board and Staff work actively to bring in  most of the money we need to operate via adoption fees and donations.

 

What is Westie Rescue's position with regard to the so-called "no-kill movement"?

We believe every dog should be given a chance to live.  However, in our experience there are three valid reasons to determine to perform euthanasia:

  • Incurable disease
  • Chronic, unmanageable or deteriorating health issues
  • Dangerous behavior (for example, biting)

Any decision to euthanize one of our dogs is preceded by an in-depth review with the dog's Veterinarian(s), our Intake and Adoption Coordinators, the dog's foster parent(s) and the full Westie Rescue Board.  We can assure you that it is a decision that is always taken very seriously.

 Do you ever have puppies available for adoption?

Generally no.  Please read About Us under the WRN Inc.Tab (on the Home page)  for more information about the Westies we normally adopt.

What is Westie Rescue's geographic area of responsibility?

As specified by the National Rescue Committee of the West Highland White Terrier Club of America, our primary geographic areas of responsibility  are the states of Colorado and New Mexico.  On occassion, we have adopted dogs into Wyoming when no other Westie rescue resources are available.

Can you provide information on Westie rescues in other states who are affiliated with Westie Rescue Network?

The best source for this information is the website of the West Highland White Terrier Club of America (WHWTCA), www.westieclubamerica.com  On the menu bar below the title banner, click on "Rescue". Under Contact Westie Rescue, click on "List of Coordinators by State". If you don't find the state you're looking for, choose the closest nearby state on the list and contact them to see if they can help you.

 How often should a Westie be groomed?

Depending on your preference for coat length, a Westie should be groomed every 2 to 3 months. Their nails need to be trimmed when they're groomed and you might need to trim them yourself between groomings.

 

Are Westies Hypoallergenic?

No. Many people have been told that Westies are hypoallergenic and don't shed but this is not accurate. Westies do shed much less than many breeds. Their coats vary so some shed more than others.