Adopt a Pyr!

Thank you for your interest in our Rescue Program! If you haven’t already done so, please take a moment to fill our our Adoption Application.

What is Rescue?
The Great Pyrenees Club of Metropolitan Milwaukee Rescue is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization devoted to placing rescued pure-bred Great Pyrenees in suitable, loving homes.

Where do the dogs come from?
Rescued Great Pyrenees are generally unclaimed strays from local animal shelters that find themselves in need of rescue through no fault of their own. Others are surrendered because their owners could no longer adequately care for them. All dogs are evaluated for temperament, level of training, and general well being. Obedience training is reinforced while the dogs are in temporary foster care. Professional obedience training can help the dog bond with its new owner and is highly recommended following adoption.

How do I get a rescued Pyrenees?
You can simply fill out our online-application. Once you have submitted your completed application, it will be evaluated by our Adoption Committee. When a potentially suitable dog becomes available, you will be contacted by a rescue volunteer to arrange at least two visits. In this way, we can ensure that the dog is going to a permanent and loving home where all members of the family want a dog, want this particular breed, and are willing to provide a suitable environment. There is no pressure to adopt a Great Pyrenees. The right dog may be waiting for you right away, or it may take several weeks or months before the perfect match is made. when you take ownership of your dog, you will be asked to sign an adoption contract detailing your responsibilities.

Do I need a fenced yard?
YES. One of our greatest concerns is ensuring the safety of each dog. The Great Pyrenees is innately curious and a natural wanderer. Your expertise as a trainer or the size of your acreage will not change that. Their self-confident, independent nature requires that they be on leash or confined within a properly fenced yard at all times. In addition, parents must be vigilant about not allowing children to open gates or doors which would allow the Pyr to escape. The Great Pyrenees does not look both ways before crossing a road, nor does he worry about getting lost. Underground fences do NOT work with the Great Pyrenees.

Dogs’ personalities and a family’s circumstances can vary greatly, so each situation is evaluated on an individual basis.

Are the dogs healthy?
We ensure that each dog receives complete veterinary care. This includes current vaccinations, spaying or neutering and a negative heartworm test, as well as microchip identification.

Why must the dogs be “fixed?”
Spayed and neutered dogs will live longer, healthier lives. In males, neutering prevents testicular and prostate cancer, and helps the dog focus on his human family, rather than searching for a mate or marking territory by spraying urine. Pet over-population is a serious problem. One dog could be responsible for the birth of up to 200 puppies in one year. Unfortunately, too many of these animals do not find loving, permanent homes. Millions of dogs of all ages and breeds are euthanized each year or suffer terribly as strays.

Is there a cost for adoption?
We ask for a minimum adoption donation of $250 for each dog. This partially covers the cost of veterinary care and other miscellaneous expenses involved in the foster and adoption program, and allows us to continue our rescue efforts.

What happens if the adoption doesn’t work out?
Great Pyrenees Rescue carefully evaluates each dog and each adoptive home to ensure the adoption is the best match possible. Our volunteers are always available to assist the adoptive family in the dog’s transition from foster to permanent home. This period of adjustment can take days, or even weeks. However, if an adoption does not work out, the dog must be returned to Great Pyrenees Rescue as outlined in our adoption contract.

Why get a rescued Pyrenees?
If you are looking for a companion, adopting a dog from rescue is an option with many advantages. Often, previous owners have given up their dogs just after they have passed through the most difficult developmental period. In addition, there is no longer any uncertainty about how a puppy will turn out. Most importantly, you will be preventing a healthy pet from being euthanized for lack of a good, caring home.

How can I help?
Even if you decide not to adopt a Great Pyrenees, the need for volunteers and monetary support is very great. Consider being a foster family for a rescued Pyr, or assisting with various fundraising efforts. Call us at (414) 630-1170 and one of our volunteers will contact you.

What if I have questions?
Rescue volunteers are available to help before, during, and after each adoption. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at any time!

Great Pyrenees Rescue
Erina Fitzgerald, Rescue Contact
(414) 630-1170 – fitzerin@wi.rr.com