Frequently Asked Questions about GRRF
How do I adopt a dog?
GRRF has an adoption application (see the above drop down menu). Once the application has been completed, we place rescued dogs with families who will suit them best. Sometimes there is a waiting period due to the lack of animals. Remember, this is a good thing!
Why does GRRF charge an adoption fee?
We try very hard to keep our adoption fees low. Our current adoption fee is $275.00 for adult dogs and $300.00 for puppies (6 months and younger). All money usually goes toward the vet bill for each dog.
All animals have a vet check at one of our local veterinary clinics, North Pole Veterinary Hospital or Aurora Animal Clinic, that includes updated shots, x-rays to check the hips for arthritis, spay or neuter, and microchip.
All dogs over 5 years of age have additional tests to include chest and abdominal radiographs and blood work. Many dogs come to us with medical problems so we supply all the veterinary care they need to assure they are ready for their forever home. This may include orthopedic procedures and extensive dental procedures as well. Our adoption fee rarely covers all the vet bills which is why we do other fundraising.
What should I know about Golden Retrievers?
Goldens are companion animals, not backyard dogs. They are an active breed. Males weigh from 65 to 75 pounds. Females weigh from 55 to 65 lbs. Mixes may be larger. Their long hair requires brushing and they shed. Goldens are eager to please and they learn quickly. They love to retrieve many kinds of objects and clothing. As with any breed, there are possible health concerns such as hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, cancer, cataracts, allergies and heart problems.
How long does a Golden live?
They can live up to 15 years, however 10 to 12 is average.
Does GRRF ever get puppies?
Sometimes, but most often dogs are older than one year.
If you are interested in puppies, we encourage you to get more information through the following links:
Golden Retriever Club of America - questions to ask when purchasing a puppy
Advice from Marcia Kardatzke, Golden Retriever Club of America
Locally, we know there are problems with several breeders here in Fairbanks, mostly hip and cancer problems. Several breeders in the
area have not had their dogs checked for even the most basic health concerns prior to breeding. Remember that you are investing the
next 10 to 15 years of your life and love in this animal. Wouldn't you want to know your new pup came from a reputable breeder?
Please also beware of Craigslist - unfortunately there are people who will adopt animals from the shelter or even steal dogs and try and sell them on Craigslist for profit. A good indicator is how much information the seller has about the dogs. Reputable breeders will use venues other than Craigslist for their pups. We encourage you to speak to your veterinarian about local breeders.
What if I can't keep my Golden?
This is rare, but if it happens, the dog must be surrendered back to GRRF.
Are Goldens good with kids?
Yes. Most Goldens are well-tempered and love people. However, small children should never be left alone with any dog. We encourage all adoptive families to enroll in obedience training; it is a great way to have fun and bond with your dog.
Do you have to have a fenced yard?
No, but most Goldens are extremely friendly and want to meet everyone in the neighborhood. Rescued dogs may have come from a home where they were not well-treated and therefore may have a tendency to wander. You must take responsibility and no dog should be unattended when loose outside.
What should I consider prior to adoption?
Size - some people don't realize how large a Golden can get! They are bred as hunting dogs and have lots of energy to expel. Dogs need to be in an environment where they can run and play. Goldens require grooming and they shed their long coats all year. Any pet will cost money, and you must consider the expense of shelter, food, vet bills, as well as lots of dog toys and equipment. (But remember, the unconditional love you get back is priceless.)
What if I have questions about the dog I own or hope to adopt?
We offer education to all Golden and Retriever mix owners or families interested in adoption. This is done at no charge to the individual, but through our love of the animals and the breed. Just call or email us if you have questions at (907) 479-5577 or info@grrf.org . Suggestions are given to further the education of all dogs and we provide a listing of local dog training classes available.
What are donations of time and money used for?
We often have requests to accept special needs shelter dogs, or dogs relinquished due to lack of funds for necessary medical procedures. With your help we are able to take these animals into the GRRF program and provide them a second chance at life. We also use monies to purchase educational materials, which may not be covered in adoption fees. We can always use your time in fundraising activities to support our efforts.
What is a foster home?
A foster family takes in a dog once it has been accepted into our rescue program. While the dog lives with the foster family, it is evaluated for adoption. A foster family provides all care for the dog while it resides with them, including water, shelter, exercise, and socialization. GRRF provides all necessary foods or medications. A foster family is very important in placing the dog with the right adoptive family. They are responsible for helping judge the characteristics that make each animal unique. If you would like to become a foster home for dogs in our rescue program, please read more about fostering, call or email us if you have questions at (907) 479-5577 or info@grrf.org.
GRRF has an adoption application (see the above drop down menu). Once the application has been completed, we place rescued dogs with families who will suit them best. Sometimes there is a waiting period due to the lack of animals. Remember, this is a good thing!
Why does GRRF charge an adoption fee?
We try very hard to keep our adoption fees low. Our current adoption fee is $275.00 for adult dogs and $300.00 for puppies (6 months and younger). All money usually goes toward the vet bill for each dog.
All animals have a vet check at one of our local veterinary clinics, North Pole Veterinary Hospital or Aurora Animal Clinic, that includes updated shots, x-rays to check the hips for arthritis, spay or neuter, and microchip.
All dogs over 5 years of age have additional tests to include chest and abdominal radiographs and blood work. Many dogs come to us with medical problems so we supply all the veterinary care they need to assure they are ready for their forever home. This may include orthopedic procedures and extensive dental procedures as well. Our adoption fee rarely covers all the vet bills which is why we do other fundraising.
What should I know about Golden Retrievers?
Goldens are companion animals, not backyard dogs. They are an active breed. Males weigh from 65 to 75 pounds. Females weigh from 55 to 65 lbs. Mixes may be larger. Their long hair requires brushing and they shed. Goldens are eager to please and they learn quickly. They love to retrieve many kinds of objects and clothing. As with any breed, there are possible health concerns such as hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, cancer, cataracts, allergies and heart problems.
How long does a Golden live?
They can live up to 15 years, however 10 to 12 is average.
Does GRRF ever get puppies?
Sometimes, but most often dogs are older than one year.
If you are interested in puppies, we encourage you to get more information through the following links:
Golden Retriever Club of America - questions to ask when purchasing a puppy
Advice from Marcia Kardatzke, Golden Retriever Club of America
Locally, we know there are problems with several breeders here in Fairbanks, mostly hip and cancer problems. Several breeders in the
area have not had their dogs checked for even the most basic health concerns prior to breeding. Remember that you are investing the
next 10 to 15 years of your life and love in this animal. Wouldn't you want to know your new pup came from a reputable breeder?
Please also beware of Craigslist - unfortunately there are people who will adopt animals from the shelter or even steal dogs and try and sell them on Craigslist for profit. A good indicator is how much information the seller has about the dogs. Reputable breeders will use venues other than Craigslist for their pups. We encourage you to speak to your veterinarian about local breeders.
What if I can't keep my Golden?
This is rare, but if it happens, the dog must be surrendered back to GRRF.
Are Goldens good with kids?
Yes. Most Goldens are well-tempered and love people. However, small children should never be left alone with any dog. We encourage all adoptive families to enroll in obedience training; it is a great way to have fun and bond with your dog.
Do you have to have a fenced yard?
No, but most Goldens are extremely friendly and want to meet everyone in the neighborhood. Rescued dogs may have come from a home where they were not well-treated and therefore may have a tendency to wander. You must take responsibility and no dog should be unattended when loose outside.
What should I consider prior to adoption?
Size - some people don't realize how large a Golden can get! They are bred as hunting dogs and have lots of energy to expel. Dogs need to be in an environment where they can run and play. Goldens require grooming and they shed their long coats all year. Any pet will cost money, and you must consider the expense of shelter, food, vet bills, as well as lots of dog toys and equipment. (But remember, the unconditional love you get back is priceless.)
What if I have questions about the dog I own or hope to adopt?
We offer education to all Golden and Retriever mix owners or families interested in adoption. This is done at no charge to the individual, but through our love of the animals and the breed. Just call or email us if you have questions at (907) 479-5577 or info@grrf.org . Suggestions are given to further the education of all dogs and we provide a listing of local dog training classes available.
What are donations of time and money used for?
We often have requests to accept special needs shelter dogs, or dogs relinquished due to lack of funds for necessary medical procedures. With your help we are able to take these animals into the GRRF program and provide them a second chance at life. We also use monies to purchase educational materials, which may not be covered in adoption fees. We can always use your time in fundraising activities to support our efforts.
What is a foster home?
A foster family takes in a dog once it has been accepted into our rescue program. While the dog lives with the foster family, it is evaluated for adoption. A foster family provides all care for the dog while it resides with them, including water, shelter, exercise, and socialization. GRRF provides all necessary foods or medications. A foster family is very important in placing the dog with the right adoptive family. They are responsible for helping judge the characteristics that make each animal unique. If you would like to become a foster home for dogs in our rescue program, please read more about fostering, call or email us if you have questions at (907) 479-5577 or info@grrf.org.
GOLDEN CREATION
On the first day of creation the Lord...
created the Golden Retriever.
On the second day of creation the Lord...
created man to serve the Golden.
On the third day of creation the Lord...
created birds to help with the field work for
the Golden.
On the fourth day of creation the Lord...
created labor so man could work for the
Golden.
On the fifth day of creation the Lord...
created the tennis ball for the Golden to
retrieve.
On the sixth day of creation the Lord...
created veterinary medicine to keep the
Golden healthy and the man impoverished.
On the seventh day of creation the Lord...
tried to rest but He had to walk the golden.
On the first day of creation the Lord...
created the Golden Retriever.
On the second day of creation the Lord...
created man to serve the Golden.
On the third day of creation the Lord...
created birds to help with the field work for
the Golden.
On the fourth day of creation the Lord...
created labor so man could work for the
Golden.
On the fifth day of creation the Lord...
created the tennis ball for the Golden to
retrieve.
On the sixth day of creation the Lord...
created veterinary medicine to keep the
Golden healthy and the man impoverished.
On the seventh day of creation the Lord...
tried to rest but He had to walk the golden.