This article is on the subject of beagle rescue. Before tackling that topic, it’s important to know a little about this breed of dog. The exact origins of the beagle dog breed are unknown, but it is believed that this robust breed is descended from English hunting dogs. The breed was registered with the American Kennel Club in the 1880s. Since then, the beagle has gained popularity not only for hunting, but also as a family pet. This breed has an excellent sense of smell and a friendly temperament. Beagles are also physically attractive; they are short-haired, with a stocky body frame and brown eyes with a characteristically sad expression. Beagles can be tricolor in shades of black/white/orange or black/white/yellow.
Beagles do well with other breeds of dogs and children, but are not thought to be good with other household pets unless they were introduced to them early in life. Once socialized with the family cat, etc., beagles can get along very well as members of the family.
Due to the popularity of beagles, breeders have cashed in on the sale of litters of these adorable pups. Unfortunately, some breeders are not always ethical in their treatment of the breed, raising many in what are called “puppy mills” where beagles are fed and raised, but receive little or no socialization.
Breeders aren’t the only ones mistreating the breed. The mentality of the general population when acquiring a pet is often impulsive rather than well planned. Think about it: a dog is on average a ten to fifteen year commitment. It should not be an impulse purchase.
These practices have caused many beagles to find themselves in extreme situations and need to be rescued. Whether they are abused in puppy mills or abandoned by their owners, rescue centers accept purebred dogs as an alternative to placing them in traditional shelters. There are beagles and other rescue centers that accept breed specific animals and there are centers that accept many breeds. These centers use volunteers to purchase, rescue, socialize, and raise or adopt purebred animals that have been mistreated.
Can rescue beagles be bred as happy family pets? How is a rescue beagle raised? The answer to the first question is simply ‘yes’. There are important techniques/tips to know when raising a rescue beagle, but they can be friendly and happy pets if treated with patience, kindness, and love.
The answer to the second question is more complex. Although rescue beagles can come from neglectful or even abusive homes, rescue centers work to support foster and adoptive parents in making rescue dogs successful members of their families. The beagle rescue center will have spayed or neutered the beagle. The rescued beagles have already received medical treatment, such as immunizations, and are resocialized by shelter staff before they are adopted.
Most rescues take time to get over the trauma they have experienced and also to adjust to a new family environment. It is important to follow all shelter staff guidelines and seek advice if there are specific behavioral issues with your rescue.