There are many different reason that families contact DRBC for the surrender of their doxie.  We understand.  Perhaps your reason is financial or there has been a change in your family setting, perhaps the death of a loved one has led to the need for relinquishment.  No matter, DRBC does not judge. 

There are several ways to contact us concerning your turn-in:

• Use the 'Contact DRBC' section of this webpage and complete the form.  Someone will contact you in 24 - 72 hours
• Send us an email.  The address is listed at the bottom of this page.  Enter 'Turn-In' as the subject header.
• Call us at the number listed in the footer of this page.  We will get back to you.

It has been our experience that the turn-in process is an emotional experience for us all.  There are many things that can make this process faster and easier.


Medical Records

DRBC understands that it may have been some time since your animal has seen a veterinarian.  We still need the records.  We do not want to over vaccinate and we need to be aware of any medical issues as our foster system is designed to accomodate doxies based on medical need.  Every dog should receive the following:

• Rabies [Every 3 years after the first year]
• DAP2iL or DHLPP - Yes , DRBC believes in Lepto prevention.  [Annual]
• Bordatella or Kennel Cough Vaccination [Annual]
• Heartworm Test and Preventative Care [Test Annual; Treatment, monthly]

Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with a certificate for all these vaccinations.  The certificate is free.  Do not be concerned if your doxie is not current on vaccinations or veterinary care, just tell us and we will make sure that these issues are addressed before your doxie enters our foster system.  While getting the certificate, ask for a copy of all medical records.  It may not seem important, but it is to us. 

One last thing.  Your medical records stay sealed with DRBC.  Although medical information is released concerning the history of your doxie, your identity and the identity of your veterinary office[s] remains confidential.  So please, help us help them by providing complete medical records prior to the relinquishment.  Thank you.


Equal Opportunity Support

We accept all doxies regardless of sex, spay/neuter status, vaccination history, medical issue, coat, color, age or behavior issue.  All we ask is that you be honest with us in the disclosure of these issues.  By the way, we don't care what you look like or what your background is either.


The Process    

Turning in a doxie is unique for every family, but begins in contacting us in one of the three ways listed above. 

Following contact, our Turn-In Coordinator or Medical Director will contact you to begin the turn in process.  Besides the medical records mentioned, we ask that you bring a sample of the dog's food, a favorite blanket and toy.  Don't have these things, don't worry.  We are just trying to make the transition easier for you doxie in their entry to foster care.  A time and date will be arranged based on mutual availalibilty.

Upon the relinquishment of your doxie, you will be asked to sign a form signing over your rights of ownership to DRBC.  The form can be downloaded now by clicking the link below.  Questions?  Don't hesitate to ask us when we get in touch.

Following your turn in your doxie will be examined by our veterinarian.  All vaccinations will be brought current, the dog will be spayed/neutered, as appropriate and any medical issues will be addressed.  Don't worry, they only receive the best of care.

Following release by the veterinarian, your doxie will come into our foster system.  The home assigned depends on age, medical need and space.  All are treated as members of the family. 


Closure for Children

DRBC has found that children [and some adults] are hit hardest by the relinquishment of their pet.  We feel that pain.  We have found that it can be helpful for the children to write a note or draw a picture to send along during the turn in.  We have some other methods to help families adjust to this loss, so please ask our Turn-In Coordinator for ideas that might help when she calls to make the arrangements.


Timing

DRBC is staffed by volunteers.  We work as quickly as we can to help you.  We need you to work with us to prevent lags in the process.  Accurate phone numbers, responses to our messages and a little flexibility will make this process easier.  Remember, we all have the same goal in mind, the long-term happiness and well-being of your doxie.


Semi-Open Adoptions

Many families worry about the fate of their doxie following relinquishment.  Contact us.  We cannot reveal the location of your doxie, but are more that happy to share placement status, medical info and obtain pictures and updates when you need them. We know how difficult closure can be in these situations. 


Shelters/SPCA's

DRBC is proud to work with many of the area shelters to save the lives of these precious dogs.  Because of their poor reaction when placed in shelters and because of the risk of euthanasia, DRBC gives priority to shelter animals.  Please do not think that this means that the turn in of your doxie will lead to placement with any rescue group; it may not.  This information is provided to you to help you understand why we ask for your honesty and flexibility on the relinquishment of your dog to us.