MatchDog Rescue has given me and my bf our first love, Hewitt…read more
Before attending the event in Atco, we were given a phone call with a proper run down on how the event would work so we were not confused when we got there. They are extremely communicative, and the events are usually held on Saturdays, but the transport that was bringing the dogs in had troubles and the event ultimately had to be moved to Sunday. I had my phone call at about 11:15 and about 1 PM hours later I was informed about the date change.
It is not a typical adoption shelter that I have been to in the past. At the event, there is a ticket system, as in, the earlier you get there the earlier you will be called.
While you wait you mingle with the volunteers and the dogs. You get a vibe on which dog feels like the best fit for you. However, be mindful that the crew with MatchDog Rescue does their due diligence and wants the best for EVERY SINGLE DOG. We went to the event with a very specific dog in mind. One that was on the medium/large end. However, the staff that reviewed our application and lifestyle, let us know that the dog might not be the best fit for us in terms of training and size of our home. While it was disappointing to hear, we knew at heart we wanted what was best for the dog and us.
As mentioned before there is a mingling period while waiting to be called on by staff. During this period you can meet dogs of all ages, sizes, and all types OUTSIDE of dog cages. We had met several different dogs during this period, just to name a few that I can remember, Nevada, Hewitt, Cassidy, Dukie, and Garret. We bonded with several dogs early on, but with our hearts set on a specific dog, we just enjoyed their presence. However, after being informed that the dog we had our hearts set on was not a good fit for us, we knew which of the many dogs we met during the mingling period we wanted to go on a walk with.
We asked if Hewitt was a good fit for us, confirmed he was, took him on a little stroll around the lot, and knew that our hearts were set on him. We went through the process of adopting him and each volunteer we worked with, remembered Hewitt and always told us how he was such a great dog and a cute little snippet or fun fact about Hewitt. There was never a doubt in my mind that Hewitt was not loved under their care. On our way out with Hewitt, the last volunteer that we worked with walked us to our car, ensuring that Hewitt was buckled in and safe and had their very loving and sad goodbyes with each other.
Hewitt has been with us for about a week. We are a very calm, but active couple and Hewitt matches exactly that for us. When we are relaxing, he is relaxing. When we are running, Hewitt is right there running with us. It is not something that I considered when I was looking into adopting a dog, but I am extremely grateful the staff at MDR let us know before adopting a dog.
If ever in the future I am looking for a second dog, there is no doubt in my mind that MDR will be the first adoption agency I look into.