ADOPTERS
Congratulations!
Congratulations on the adoption of your new Mile High Labrador Retriever Mission dog! We're so happy you decided to rescue this deserving pup and we're sure your new dog is thankful as well! You have helped stop the pet overpopulation problem by adopting a dog that may have normally been euthanized in a shelter. Thank you for spaying and neutering your pets and continuing to help control the pet population!
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This is a very exciting time for you and your new family member. Many of the dogs have come from stressful times, coming from neglectful situations, dirty shelters, and often long transports to get here. We have several suggestions and helpful resources to help your dog transition to his/her new home. They will also help you understand, train, and learn about your new addition!
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Pet Insurance?
We have had a lot of questions about Pet Insurance and whether it is a good idea to get. The reality is that all of our situations are different and it is a personal decision to make if you choose to explore and purchase pet insurance for your adopted fur member. With that in mind, many insurance plans generally cover the cost of initial puppy shots, worming, and spay/neuter. Please remember that your dog will come from us as up-to-date on shots as they can be and that MHLRM does cover the cost of spay/neuter services if your dog hasn't been altered at the time of adoption due to age or health reasons if the appointment and procedure is done with one of our partnered vet hospitals.
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If you are considering Pet Insurance - we have a tool that may help you sift through all the different companies, costs, and what they cover. Click HERE to access that tool we found on the net.
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Training
We at the Mile High Lab Mission embrace several forms of training your dog. We believe different types of training work for each dog and fit their personalities more appropriately than others. As long as it's constructive, educational, and not abusive or aggressive - we think it could be a great way to train your pup.
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Some basic training tips we have for any new dog owner are as follows:
Crates are a great way to help train a dog in a new environment. They can help with house-training and destructive behavior, and provide a safe place. Placing the crate in a central area and practicing with the dog for short periods while at home is a great way to start.
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Exercise is essential for any dog, especially labs! Many behavior problems can be avoided with adequate exercise. Daily walks not only help exercise the dog (and you) but also help you bond with your new dog. Other great ways to exercise your dog are teaching fetch, hikes, agility classes, training classes, and taking them to the dog park.
Training is a great way to start your dog off at any age. Socialization is very important for dogs. It's good to introduce them to many different people, places, sounds, and other dogs. Group classes or private lessons are a great way to start your dog off to a long life of happiness.
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Dog Food
Click HERE to check out info to evaluate the quality of the food you are currently using and to see a list of recommended high-quality foods.
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Vetting
Your dog's continued health is very important.
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SPAY/NEUTER
If the dog you adopted was too young to be spayed/neutered at the time of adoption - you are required by your adoption agreement as well as by Colorado law to get your dog altered by the stated deadline on your adoption agreement. Please reference the Welcome Letter that you received at the time of adoption for the list of MHLRM Spay/Neuter vets we work with. If you take your adopted dog to a MHLRM Spay/Neuter Vet - MHLRM covers the cost of spay/neuter in full if the directions are followed and you complete the surgery by the stated deadline. Please remember that any other services you choose to do at those appointments are at your expense. If you choose to take your vet to a non-MHLRM spay/neuter vet we work with, you will assume the cost of spay/neuter entirely.
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Illness immediately after adoption
It rarely happens but sometimes a dog gets sick right after adoption. We will work with our adopters when this occurs. If you need our assistance it is critical that you contact your MHLRM volunteer for guidance and a list of approved vets. Our adoption fees don't come anywhere near covering even basic vetting costs and transportation. As a result, an unplanned visit to a vet that doesn't offer rescue rates causes significant financial distress and reduces our ability to help other sick or injured dogs. Please note that we have vets located in many areas and we have several volunteers monitoring emails and our emergency hotline so a vet visit can generally be arranged quickly. Expenses incurred at a vet not approved by us will not be reimbursed.
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FREE Wellness Initial Exams - Any Costs Incurred are NOT the Responsibility of MHLRM
Many vets across the state are willing to give an initial free exam to your dog if seen in the first 10 days after adoption. Some require proof of adoption, so be sure to bring your new adopter letter with you! It is always a good idea to mention that you are seeking a free initial exam when scheduling your appointment. This is a great way to establish a vet for your dogs' continued care.
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Emergency Clinics - Any Costs Incurred are NOT the Responsibility of MHLRM
It's always a good idea to know where an emergency clinic is when the time arises. Please search around to find out where the closest emergency clinic is to you.
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If you are fostering a dog for MHLRM, DO NOT use this list to get medical attention for your foster dog. Contact MHLRM directly.