Why adopt an overseas rescue dog?

We get it; rescuing a dog you may not have met before could seem really daunting but we know there is so much more to our dogs than just where they come from. Overseas street dogs are one of a kind and we want our adopters to get to know how unique they are, whilst also being supported throughout their adoption journey. Here’s why rescuing an overseas dog with ROLDA is an incredible thing to do – despite the hearsay!

1. We respect street and village dogs and only rescue those in need. We are aware that not all dogs NEED rescuing or not ALL dogs are suitable for a home environment. That is why we are respectful to the dog communities that live harmoniously in their environments and carefully select those suited to adoption. This is the responsibility of all rescue organisations.

2. They deserve a home as much as any other dog. We believe that just because they may face stigma, it doesn’t mean our dogs are any less entitled to be happy and comfortable in a safe home.

3. Mixed-breed dogs usually have fewer health concerns and live longer. Most of our dogs are mixed breeds which means they haven’t been pure bred for human benefit. This can mean they are less prone to health concerns and adopting a dog is a lot cheaper than buying a puppy.

4. We take the health of our dogs very seriously. We know the concerns that have been raised about bringing in overseas rescues and it’s why we are regimented in ensuring each dog has a blood test for the following diseases; Canine Giardia, Brucella, Ehlichia, Lymes/Borrelia, Anaplasmosis, Canine Heartworm and Leishmaniasis. All dogs also stay up to date with flea, wormer and annual vaccines in our shelter and each dog is regularly health checked. If any of our dogs are of ill health or test positive in the above tests, they will not travel and will be cared for in Romania.

5. The stray dog population in Romania is rife and dogs are not always treated with respect or kindness. By helping to adopt one dog, you essentially save two – meaning when you take one of our dogs home there is a safe space for us to welcome another dog into our care, instead of them facing danger and cruelty on the streets.

6. We offer support and training advice. Any dog, whether rescued or bought from a breeder can have behaviour concerns or will need training and it is why we have a knowledgeable team who are on hand to offer management advice and training tips throughout the lifetime of your dog.

7. Adopting and working with your rescue dog is hugely rewarding. There is something wonderful about a bond you can create with your rescue dog, especially one that may not have known comfort or kindness before. Yes, there may be hard times but the growth and journey you will go on will be like none other.

8. We offer lifetime back up. We understand that not everything always goes to plan and it’s why we are dedicated to each and every dog we rehome, offering to take your dog back in circumstances where they can no longer stay with you. We proudly rely on a foster network so we do not add additional strain to the dog by going into external kennels – all we ask is that you give us time to arrange this.

9. Rescue dogs have a lot to teach us. Instinctual beings, more attuned to their environment and usually pretty sensitive to their surroundings, adopting an overseas dog will give you a newfound respect for your environment and animals and what you can achieve all together.

10. We carefully assess and evaluate our dogs. Our heroes at the shelter are pioneers at working with a range of dogs and assessing their suitability for rehoming. If we have any concerns about their behaviour and ability to cope with a journey to their new home, we won’t put them up for adoption.

11. Our adoption teams have years of experience with dogs and they will help you find a dog that is suited to your home and lifestyle. We are here to make that journey as smooth as possible for you and our dogs.