When the dog turns out not to be a Beardie we are fortunate to have BCCC member Chris Earland who steps in to place the Neardies. If there is no tattoo or the breeder or owner cannot be traced the next step is to get the dog out of the shelter and to evaluate its condition and health status. This is where our foster homes come in. The local BCCC Rescue Contact is sometimes also able to foster the dog for a short time until a permanent home is found. If not, I also have some names of people who have offered to foster needy Beardies.
Some dogs are in good health and condition while others have been injured or abused.
Coats may be terribly matted. It is best to have the dog evaluated by a Veterinarian. Depending on the situation, the dog may just need a good grooming or it may require major medical intervention. It is also BCCC Rescue policy to spay or castrate rescue dogs prior to placing them in their new homes. Because of all this it may be necessary to foster a dog for a few weeks.