PLACING YOUR PET
You've decided to give up your pet, and you're wondering if New Leash On Life can take your dog.  Please be aware that...

1. We receive over 100 requests a week for us to take a dog in. 

2. We have a very limited amount of space and before we can rescue a dog, one of our current dogs must find a home first.

3. The moment a space opens up, we go to the shelter and rescue a dog that is in danger of being euthanized.  Technically, your dog has a home.  How can we choose to rescue your dog and deny the dog in the shelter a chance at life?

Having said all of that, we're still here to help in any way we can. 

Before you decide to give up your pet, ask yourself the real reasons you are doing it.  Below you will find information and helpful tips for the most common circumstances.

You're moving and can't find a place that accepts pets.
Click here for helpful hints before you decide to give up your pet. Or if you need to find a rental that allows pets, try these helpful sites.
Pets and People Homefinders - www.petsandpeoplela.com
People with Pets - www.peoplewithpets.com
The Humane Society - www.rentwithpets.org
Pets R Welcome - www.petsrwelcome.com

You're having trouble with finances and/or can't pay your vet bills.
Try contacting Angels 4 Animals at www.angels4animals.org.
"Angels4Animals, a non-profit organization and a program of Inner Voice Community Services, has a mission to serve as the guardian angel of animals whose caretakers find themselves in difficult financial situations. At Angels4Animals we believe that animal owners should not have to say goodbye to the animals that they love. Our work is accomplished in conjunction with veterinary clinics across the country, eager to assist as many animals, and their owners, as possible. Our services range from financial aid to complete treatment to those pets and pet owners in need."

You just don't have the time for your pet.  He deserves a home that can give him more attention.
We can't even tell you how often we hear this.  But unfortunately your pet does not have a voice.  He can't tell you that he would rather stay with the family he has known and loved all his life.  Animals ask for so little in return for their unconditional love.  We humans are not nearly so selfless.  That must be why we crave the love of these wonderful creatures.  Now think about it... you took on the responsibility to care for your pet for its entire life when you adopted him/her, right?  You must have 5 minutes in your schedule to play some ball or spend some time snuggling with your pet when you sit down to watch your favorite TV program.  I mean, isn't that why you adopted your pet to begin with?  Dogs and cats have feelings, too... they go through psychological torment when they lose their family.  Your pet deserves to stay with the family he/she loves.

Your dog is out of control, jumps on you and your kids, destroys your house, etc.
Okay, c'mon, we all went through an obnoxious teenage stage, right?  Our parents didn't toss us out... thankfully!  Every dog around 8 months old to 2 years old goes through a difficult period.  Hey, guess what helps?  Training!  Now, you didn't have to be a rocket scientist to figure that one out.  Trust us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.  You just need better communication with your dog, and you both will get through it.  And guess what your reward will be?  A pet that will love you unconditionally for the rest of its life!  Not bad, huh?

I'm pregnant and am not supposed to be around cats.
Okay, here's a common misconception.  You can be around cats... you just aren't supposed to change their litter box anymore.  So here's a great idea!  Get that husband or boyfriend to do it.  I mean, with all that you are about to go through for the next 9 months, it's the least they can do.  And kitty will be so grateful!

My dogs don't get along with each other.
Before you decide you need to separate the dynamic duo or trio or whatever, contact a Behaviorist to evaluate the situation.  It may not be as bad as you thought.  Perhaps the problem can easily be solved and you can keep on loving your canine buddies.  Contact Advanced K-9 Services at www.ak9services.com or another trainer for help.

My dog is aggressive towards people.
Once again, our suggestion is to contact a Trainer or Behaviorist that specializes in aggression.  When something becomes inconvenient or the animal is more than you can handle, so many people just wish to pawn their problem off on to someone else.  Here, you want my dog that bites?  So often, however, the problem can be solved.  Contact Advanced K-9 Services at www.ak9services.com or another trainer for help.

Now, granted, there are special circumstances that require that some people give up their beloved pets.  While New Leash On Life is dedicated to rescuing animals from the shelters and streets, and can therefore not take your animal, we can offer you help and advice.  Send us a photo and description of your pet, along with detailed information about why you must give up your pet, to info@nlol.org or fill out our Courtesy Listing form to have your pet posted to our web site. 

And while you're doing that, make up flyers with your pet's information.  A cute picture and story go a long way!  Post those flyers in local vet offices and pet stores, place an ad in the newspaper... and network, network, network!  It's up to YOU to find your pet a safe and loving home.

Things to remember...

• There are tens of thousands of animals put to death in Los Angeles each year.
   

• Most shelters are full, often putting 2 or more dogs in one kennel.  In order to make room for your dog, all the animals in one of the kennels must be destroyed.
   

• A stray dog is generally given 3-5 working days to be adopted... if that dog is not adopted, it will be put to sleep, sometimes as soon as that first day.  Your dog (an owner turn-in) can be euthanized after the mandatory time frame (a minimum of 2 days).
   

• The shelters are full of young and older dogs, purebred and mixed, sweet and shy... don't assume your dog will be easily placed just because he's cute or has a great personality.
   

• When you adopted or bought your dog, you took on the responsibility of that dog for the rest of its life.  Remember that a dog is an actual life - not a piece of furniture to be given away when it no longer fits.  Dogs are such wonderful, compassionate, giving souls... we hope you find it in your heart to keep your pet.