Poodle Network UK

Question 1

Do we have Charitable Status and why have we registered?

Answer

Poodle Network UK (PNUK) is Registered with the Charities Commission and our Charity Number is 1163333. PNUK wanted our donors and supporters to have the absolute certainty that 100% of their donations goes to the care and continued welfare of the Poodles. The founding Trustees wanted to ensure no individual or volunteer benefited from the donations we received; our registration ensures this.

Question 2

What Poodles do you rescue?

Answer

We rescue ALL Poodle sizes: toy, miniature and standard; whatever their condition, issues and medical needs.

Question 3

How are our fosterers chosen?

Answer

Each fosterer is required to complete a comprehensive assessment about their knowledge and experience with Poodles and their traits, behaviour and training and must pass a thorough home check before being approved as a fosterer. If you would like to be a fosterer, please contact the trustees.

Question 4

What assessments do the dogs go through?

Answer

We ask previous owners to complete an assessment form about the dog they are turning over to our care; we expect this to be an honest assessment about the dog but have no way to verify the information. We take all poodles (except dangerous dogs which fall under the Dangerous Doga Act 1991 & updates) no matter what their needs; the assessment is needed so we can find the correct fosterer and home which is best suited to the dog. Fosterers complete a thorough assessment of the dog and any issues and prepare the dogs to be rehomed. When needed we have behaviourists who work with the fosterers to develop rehabilitation programs.

Question 5

How are homes chosen?

Answer

Anyone wishing to adopt one of our Poodles is asked to complete an Application form and we match our dogs as closely as possible to the home we think will suit them. Dogs are not allocated in the order people apply or that the dog comes into us. All applications are thoroughly vetted and it is a requirement that a comprehensive home check is completed before a dog is placed with a new family. We look at the age of the poodle, temperament, activity level and many other factors before offering a poodle to what we consider to be the best home. Poodles are very sociable, active, intelligent animals, they need companionship and stimulus, and do not like to be left alone, this is also considered in our homes.

Question 6

What happens when the dog is in its new home?

Answer

Each dog has a human volunteer buddy who is there for the owners to discuss problems and issues with; the sooner problems are raised with us the easier they are to deal with; before they become ingrained. Some dogs settle immediately, some dogs take time. It is essential that new carers realise that the dog is frightened and very uncertain; it has to get to know you and learn to trust you and this can sometimes take weeks or months depending on what the dog has gone through previously. The dog needs to be allowed space and time to settle with positive enforcement of the good behaviour. We do not condone punishment of bad behaviour. Although we try to resolve issues whilst the dog is in foster, this work must be ongoing in the new home. You must remember that what other people have seen as acceptable behaviour you may not and a dog needs to gently adjust to your expectations. Dogs must never be let off lead for at least the first 4 weeks of the poodle coming to you and only then if you are 100% certain of their recall.

Question 7

Do I need to attend training with my rescue poodle?

Answer

Poodles need stimulus and training, we expect all carers to provide our dogs with the necessary training to allow them to become a wonderful, well socialised member of their home and community. It is a possibility that corrective behavioural training may be needed as many rescue dogs have issues which they need to ‘unlearn’. We expect our carers to provide our poodles with any training they may need. Agility training is also an ideal way to keep your poodle active, put their energy to good use and allow them to use their intelligence, however this must be age appropriate to the dog. If you have issues after your become a carer we will happily work with you on them; the sooner you tell us the easier this will be. Our volunteers have a wealth of experience which they are happy to share with you.

Question 8

Do I need to groom my dog?

Answer

Poodles need daily grooming, ideally with a slicker brush and they must be clipped every 4 to 6 weeks to keep their coats in tip top condition. You need to factor the cost of grooming into having a poodle as the costs for this can vary substantially; it is essential you find a caring groomer who will look after your pet and not frighten them as it is a lengthy process which they need to get used to. Grooming daily allows them to get used to being handled, feel round all their feet, so they are used to this when they go to the groomers or the vets. This also allows you to quickly notice changes and potential issues with your dogs skin, feet and pads. Poodles nails, particularly dew claws may need regular trimming, this can usually be done when they are groomed, however occasionally it may be necessary for a vet to do this.

Question 9

Do I need to clean their teeth?

Answer

Teeth cleaning regularly is recommended particularly with smaller poodles as their teeth can quickly accumulate tartar and decay. Cleaning their teeth allows them to get used to having their faces handled and teeth looked at which causes less problems at the vets & groomers.