FAQ

Most BMDs that are rescued or rehomed come from their owners, who are no longer able to care for them because of changing life circumstances or because there are issues with the dogs’ health or behavior.

In order for an adoption to be successful, we need to make sure an appropriate match is made, taking into consideration Berner’s needs and the adoptive family’s needs. Completion of our application will assist in our efforts to make sure Berners who come through our rescue program find their way into the most appropriate homes.

Our club rescue and rehome program places an average of 10 dogs per year. We never know when we will be contacted, so we are always looking for just the right match for each dog. Once available, we encourage you to fill out our Rescue Questionnaire if you think a rescue dog might be right for you.

The average age of dogs that come into our program is between 1 and 4 years of age.

YES. Each dog that we take in has its own unique challenges. Some rescue dogs with temperament issues such as shyness or separation anxiety between 1 and 4 may have extra obstacles for the adoptive family to overcome. Others may have behavior issues such as barking, digging, chewing, jumping up on people, and housebreaking. Adoptive families should plan on spending anywhere from 8 to 24 weeks in a professional obedience training program. Training will help the dog overcome an often traumatic stage while they adjust to a totally new environment, and it will help the adoptive family solve the most common behavior problems.

Adoption fees for rescues are currently set at whatever costs the club incurs to rescue the dog, including any additional medical costs, vaccinations, etc. The amount can vary depending on the age, health, and circumstances of the dog.

We appreciate you reviewing the information on our rescue and rehome page. Berners are very loyal companions and are happiest when they are surrounded by their family and friends. By adopting a rescue or rehoming Berner the real joy of ownership is in having a dog that will always be your number one fan.