Basset Hounds are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a great fit for families with children or for people who want a laid-back companion.
Their short stature and long ears require regular grooming to prevent matting and keep them clean.
Basset Hounds are relatively low-maintenance pets when it comes to exercise, needing only short daily walks to stay happy and healthy.
They are prone to obesity, so it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they get enough physical activity.
You might enjoy: Are Basset Hounds Good with Kids
Adoption Process
The adoption process for basset hounds is straightforward and efficient. You'll need to complete an adoption application and pay the application fee to get started.
A CBHR representative will contact you as soon as possible to let you know your application has been received and is being processed. This is a crucial step, as it ensures that your application is being reviewed and you're one step closer to finding your perfect basset match.
The home visit is a key part of the adoption process, allowing a CBHR volunteer to get to know you and better understand your expectations for a new family member. This helps identify the ideal basset match for you.
Application Process
To start the adoption process, you'll need to complete an adoption application and pay the application fee. We recommend filling it out as soon as you're ready to move forward with adoption.
Our basset population is always changing, so even if we don't have the right dog at the moment, we might have your perfect fit by the time you're approved. We maintain a "first come, first serve" list for each dog, so the sooner you apply, the better.
After submitting your application, a CBHR representative will contact you to let you know it's been received and is being processed. A brief phone interview will follow, and then a volunteer will visit with you in your home to get to know you and understand your expectations for a new family member.
Foster to Adopt: The Process
We offer a foster to adopt program where you can welcome a rescued dog into your home and then adopt it if it's a good fit for your family.
Take a look at this: Adopt a Maltipoo Puppy
The dog will be under our care for a minimum of two weeks during the fostering period.
We'll fund all vet evaluations and address any concerns related to the dog during this time.
If you decide the dog isn't a good fit for your family, we'll put it in another foster home and you'll go back on the waiting list.
Before the dog arrives, you'll need to review and sign a Foster Home Agreement outlining our responsibilities and yours regarding the rescue dog.
Fee
The adoption fee is a crucial part of the process. You'll need to pay a minimum fee based on the dog's age at the time of adoption.
All dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and micro-chipped before they go home with you. This ensures they're healthy and ready for their new life.
The fee structure is as follows:
As a previous adopter, you'll receive a 10% discount on your adoption fee. If you're adopting a bonded pair, you'll get a 25% discount.
Basset Hound Information
Basset Hounds are known for their short stature, typically weighing between 40-65 pounds and standing about 10-15 inches tall.
Their calm and gentle nature makes them a great fit for families with children.
Basset Hounds are prone to ear infections due to their long, droopy ears.
Regular grooming is essential to prevent these issues and keep their coat clean.
Their short legs may make them seem slow, but Basset Hounds can still reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
They thrive on regular exercise and a balanced diet to maintain their overall health.
Recommended read: Basset Hounds Good Apartment Dogs
Temperament
The Basset Hound is a breed known for its good nature and easygoing personality. They are amiable with dogs, other pets, and children, making them a great addition to many families.
However, it's essential to remember that children should be cautioned not to put strain on the Basset's back with their games. This is crucial to prevent any potential harm to the dog.
Basset Hounds are calm inside, but they need regular exercise to stay fit. They prefer to investigate slowly and love to sniff and trail.
These dogs are talented and determined trackers, not easily dissuaded from their course. They may get on a trail and follow it until becoming lost, so it's crucial to keep an eye on them.
Basset Hounds can be stubborn and slow-moving, so patience is necessary when training them. Their loud bay is a distinctive trait they use when excited on the trail.
A different take: Different Kinds of Basset Hounds
Upkeep
The Basset Hound is a relatively low-maintenance breed, but they do need some regular upkeep to stay happy and healthy.
Daily exercise is a must for Bassets, and a short walk on a leash or some playtime in the yard should suffice.
Their coat requires minimal grooming, but it's essential to clean their face regularly, especially around the mouth and wrinkles, to prevent odor buildup.
Basset Hounds are notorious droolers, so be prepared for some extra cleaning up after meals and playtime.
Overall, a Basset Hound's upkeep is relatively easy, but it does require some regular attention to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Health
Basset Hounds are prone to certain health issues that you should be aware of. Basset Hounds can live for 8-12 years.
One major concern is OCD, a genetic disorder that affects the dog's brain. Elbow dysplasia is another issue that can cause arthritis and mobility problems.
Thrombopathy, a blood clotting disorder, is a major concern as well. Entropion and ectropion, eye problems, can cause discomfort and vision loss.
Otitis externa, an ear infection, can be painful and may require antibiotics. Glaucoma, a condition that affects the eye, can cause blindness if left untreated.
Gastric torsion, a life-threatening condition, requires immediate veterinary attention. CHD, a heart condition, can affect the dog's quality of life.
Some minor concerns include patellar luxation, which can cause knee pain, and vWD, a bleeding disorder.
It's essential to have your Basset Hound checked regularly for these health issues. Obesity is a problem in the breed, especially because it contributes to back problems.
Here are some suggested tests to monitor your Basset Hound's health:
- Eye exam
- Hip evaluation
- vWD test
- Elbow evaluation
- Platelet count
And Beagles Too
If you're interested in adopting a Basset Hound from a rescue organization, plan on a meeting to see the dog you're interested in.
You may visit the foster home where the dog is located, or a representative of the rescue may be able to bring the dog to your home for a visit.
If you decide to adopt the dog, an adoption fee is collected, and the dog's records are given to you.
The "Terms of Adoption Agreement" is read and signed by you, ensuring a smooth transition for both you and the dog.
If you need to postpone physical possession of your new Basset Hound, a deposit is required to hold the dog for you until you're ready to bring it home.
Take a look at this: Afghan Dog Rescue
Sources
- adoption application (cbhroffice.com)
- Basset Hound Dog & Puppy Breed and Adoption Info (petfinder.com)
- Rescues | Oregon | Houndful Hearts (houndfulhearts.com)
- Washington Basset Rescue (wabr.net)
- Basset Hound Adoption – Arizona Basset Hound Rescue (azbassetrescue.org)
Featured Images: pexels.com