Frequently Ask Questions
Q: Who or what is Prairie Pugs?
A: Prairie Pugs, Inc., a 501(c)3 Pug rescue, was established by a group of Pug owned families that wanted to provide a haven for homeless Pugs in NE Kansas. We do not accept euthanasia for any healthy, adoptable Pug, or as a means of population control for animals. We believe each Pug’s life is meaningful and deserves a loving home. We are composed of volunteers who are willing to foster, transport, or otherwise assist in the rescue effort. We are supported entirely by donations and fund-raisers.
Q: Where do rescue Pugs come from?
A: Our Pugs come to rescue a number of ways: from shelters, abandonment, abusive situations, puppy mills, breeding stock which no longer can produce, owner death, illness or relocating, life style changes such as divorce or a new baby. Most rescue Pugs are adults. Some owners surrender their "beloved companion" at the age of 10 or more due to medical problems related to aging. Some are given up simply because they shed or just ignorance of the breed.
Q: How do I adopt a Pug from Prairie Pugs?
A: First you must complete an adoption application and send it in either by standard mail or e-mail. Once we receive your application, it will be reviewed and you will be notified if your application is approved or declined.
Q: Do you have any puppies?
A: We do receive puppies but it is very rare. Pugs are puppies until they are two years old. No matter what age they are, Pugs bond to their new owners if they are treated with love and respect.
Q: Do you ship Pugs?
A: Prairie Pugs does NOT ship Pugs. If you are interested in adopting one of our Pugs and you are not in our area, you must be willing to travel in order to pick up the Pug.
Q: Why is an adoption application necessary?
A: The adoption application asks a number of questions which allows us to evaluate if the Pug you are interested in adopting would be an appropriate match for you and your family. It may seem we are asking more question than necessary, but actually we are getting the basic information needed to find the Pug that is best suited to you and your family. A Pug is a lifetime commitment; he or she will be your loving companion and best friend, so please complete the application in its entirety and to the best of your ability.
Q: Will you really call my references?
A: Absolutely! The veterinarian and personal references attest to your character and your responsibility as a pet owner. They also give us an insight of how you will relate to your new companion. This is to insure that the best match is made for both you and the Pug.
Q: Do you really do a home visit?
A: Prairie Pugs will not adopt to anyone who does not agree to have one of our volunteers visit the home before and after the adoption is completed. The home visit gives us the opportunity to make suggestions regarding the transitional adjustments the Pug will face once he/she is introduced into your home. We are not trying to be invasive; we want what is best for the Pug, we want the best companion for you. By visiting after the adoption is complete, it allows us to observe the Pug’s interaction with you and the family, especially with children and other pets.
Q: What is the "Adoption Agreement" for?
A: An Adoption Agreement must be signed by every person who adopts a Pug from Prairie Pugs, Inc. The most important aspect of this agreement is if you are unable to keep the Pug, for any reason, that it must be returned to Prairie Pugs. Also, the Pug must reside indoors, be properly cared for with quality food and water, veterinary care and loved. You should carefully review this agreement before signing because there are other factors which must be met; failure to adhere to the agreement allows us to take possession of the Pug anytime after adoption.
Q: What condition will my Pug be in when I adopt it?
A: Your Pug will have been spayed or neutered, heartworm tested and treated if necessary, current on all vaccinations, treated for internal parasites, had a dental and any other medical care needed that we can possibly afford. Your Pug will be as healthy as we can possibly make it. Some of our Pugs have been in a foster home for a year or more. This enables us to know their likes and dislikes and we can advise you on their temperament. If you request it, we can also micro-chip your Pug.
Q: Are there any medical issues I should be aware of?
A: Be sure you veterinarian is experienced with Brachycephalic (smushed face) dogs. Pugs have special requirements when they are anesthetized. They must be intubated and the anesthetic isoflurane or sevoflurane must be used. Pugs are prone to eye ulcers, Pigmentary keratitis (pigment covering the eyes), hip dysplasia, luxating patellas, mast cell tumors and allergic reactions to vaccinations. This information is not meant to scare you but to alert you of things to watch for. All living creatures have pre-dispositions to certain conditions, these are just some that we are aware of that concerns Pugs.
Q: Is Heartworm preventive necessary?
A: Heartworm preventive must be given once a month, 12 months a year, for the life of the Pug. Heartworms are in all 50 states regardless of what you might think. Dogs get heart worms from mosquitoes. The prevention is much easier than the cure. The treatment for Heartworm is administered in two doses each day for two days, followed by several weeks of inactivity to give the dog’s system a chance to absorb the dead worms. Exertion can cause the dead worms to dislodge, travel to the lungs, and cause death. At least three-to-four weeks after the administration of the drug, to kill the adult worms, further treatment is needed. The dog is dosed daily for a week, and then the blood test is repeated. If microfilaria are still present, the dose can be increased. Follow-up studies should be done in a year.
Q: Do Pug’s need groomed?
A: hey must have their wrinkles, nose fold and ears kept clean to prevent infection. The nails should be trimmed regularly, brush to reduces shedding and of course, the bath. You do not need to bathe your Pug any more often then once a month unless they get really dirty. Bathing too often will dry out their coat and skin. Pugs HATE to have their toenails cut. If you can trim the very tip of each toenail once a week, this will help keep them short.
Q: How can I help Prairie Pugs help the pugs in need?
A: Donations are always appreciated. You may also assist us by fostering, or transporting. Contact us if you would like to be a volunteer.
