How to Rescue a Maltese

Rescuing a Maltese dog or puppy is a rewarding experience, both for you and for the dog. You may be surprised to learn just how many loving, deserving Maltese dogs are in need of rescue. It's not difficult to rescue a Maltese. The hard part is finding the perfect dog for you and your family. Sometimes this means walking away from pleading, adorable puppies , or loving older dogs that aren't a good match.

Things You'll Need

  • Food bowl
  • Water bowl
  • Puppy food
  • Collar
  • Brush
  • Leash
  • Small dog toys
  • Crate or other container
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a list of desired traits. Although every Maltese is adorable, not every one is the right puppy or dog for you and your family. Before beginning your search, take some time to make a list of desired traits that you would like your dog to have. For example, if you have children, or if kids often visit your home, a Maltese that gets along with children is a must. If your lifestyle is laid back and relaxed, you will want to look for a more laid-back dog. But if you are active and want a constant companion, you might want a more energetic dogy. Even though Maltese dogs and puppies share similar traits in general, each has a unique personality. Knowing what is right for you will result in a great lifelong relationship with your dog. As hard is it may be, stick to the list and take your time in finding the right Maltese.

    • 2

      Check with local shelters and rescue groups. There are hundreds of rescue groups and shelters throughout the country and in every state that take in Maltese dogs, so take a little time to focus your search. Start by contacting nearby shelters and rescue groups and get on their "wish list" by letting them know you are looking for a Maltese. Although you are more likely to find your new companion through a Maltese-specific group, it's worth the time to check with local rescues and shelters. They may also be able to refer you to individuals or other groups that can help you.

    • 3

      Contact your local Maltese association. Visit the American Maltese Association's website, which is listed in the Additional Resources section, and look for local groups or breeders in your area. Then contact those groups and breeders to find out if there is a Maltese-specific rescue group in your area. Also, leave your contact information with the group and breeders, letting them know that you are interested in rescuing a Maltese dog or puppy. Breeders and breed associations are often on the front lines of rescue, referring dogs and puppies to rescue organizations.

    • 4

      Search online for a Maltese puppy.In your quest to adopt a Maltese puppy, the Internet is one of your best resources. You can save hours of work by searching sites that consolidate rescue and shelter dog listings, including listings for adoptable Maltese puppies in your area. Two of the most popular sites are 1-800-save-a-pet and Petfinder. Links to these sites are included in the Additional Resources section. These sites allow you to customize your search for a particular breed, age and sex of puppy. They also let you filter results by distance from your location.

    • 5

      Meet the puppy (or puppies).Once you find a Maltese puppy or dog you might want to adopt, set up an appointment to meet the puppy. Spend some time checking the dog over for any health problems and also see if its temperament fits with your family. Ask the rescuer or shelter for any information they have about the dog. Allow yourself a little time after meeting the Maltese dog to make your final decision. It's tempting to take ta dog or puppy right home, but since it's a long-term commitment of at least 10 years, take some time to make sure the one you are considering is the right one for you.

    • 6

      Fill out the adoption application.Most rescue organizations and shelters require you to fill out an application in order to adopt a dog or puppy. Once you're sure you've found the perfect Maltese for your family, fill the application out honestly and completely. Volunteers can often offer you advice and help on overcoming certain obstacles if you are honest about them. If, for example, you live in an apartment and are concerned about the lack of a yard, volunteers can give you ideas for making sure your puppy gets enough exercise.

    • 7

      Prepare your home.Before bringing your precious new Maltese home, get ready for his or her arrival by puppy-proofing the house and deciding where the dog will eat, sleep and go the bathroom. Make sure cleaners and any toxic plants are well out of the puppy's reach and shoes or other items a dog may enjoy chewing on are put away. With a little preparation, when you finally bring your rescued Maltese home, you can spend your time bonding with and enjoying your new puppy.