When I saw the above picture of Daisy on the internet last May I knew found THE ONE, and without waiting for my fiance's approval, I filled out an application, paid the adoption fee and waited for an answer from the agency.
I knew Daisy was going to be our girl because she had all of the qualities I was looking for. I wanted a dog like Jesse (pictured above at left) who had expressive eyes and I also wanted a dog who had long, droopy ears like Sophie (pictured above at right) and Daisy seemed to fit in those categories.
I also figured that since Jesse loved playing with cats, I assumed Daisy would too.
And since our cats tolerated Sophie during her many, many sleep-overs I figured Henry and Buster would tolerate Daisy's presence in our their home.
And since Daisy was very affectionate with her foster mom, Shannen, during her three month stay in Vermont we figured Daisy would feel right at home with us.
We were overjoyed to bring Daisy home on Saturday, May 30, 2009, but the happy glow on our faces changed to despair shortly afterwards when we realized Daisy's rescue organization, Help Save One, wasn't reputable.
Unfortunately, Daisy was handed to us without her vet records, tags, or license and we assumed the agency would send them to us immediately but we didn't receive them until July.
To make matters worse, Help Save One advertised her as a spayed dog but six days after adoption Daisy started her heat cycle and I was promised payment of Daisy's spay surgery AND for her vaccinations but the payment was delayed for various reasons and we were forced to make several follow-through phone calls and e-mails until the payments were made.
What should have been a joyful first few months for Daisy and her owners turned out to be a frustrating and eye-opening experience that I wouldn't wish on anyone and that is why I urge my readers to do the research with your chosen rescue organization before adopting a dog.
In the end, we are extremely happy with our dear, sweet Daisy, but I've learned the difference between an honest dog rescue agency and a dishonest one and I hope my story will help you have a good experience when adopting your next (or first) furry friend.
