faq

Q: What is a rescued Havanese?

A: A rescued Havanese is one which is relinquished by its owner for a variety of reasons, ended up in a shelter as a stray, often family members may not have the time to spend with the dog, or the death or illness of its owner may occur which results in the Hav no longer having a home, or a puppy mill.

Often a Havanese is sold through a pet store that is only interested in a sale. Without regard for the cost and responsibilities of maintaining this breed, the new family buys the dog on a whim. The pet storeowner frequently does not discuss the time and patience required for housebreaking, the grooming needs of the dog or the need to have the dog spayed or neutered.

Sometimes a family's lifestyle is not considered when the Hav is acquired and/or they find the dog no longer fits in. A change in lifestyle may occur through divorce, an employment change or having to change residences that don't allow dogs - the result being the Hav is homeless.

Q: What is fostering?

A: Foster care is where the newly rescued dog begins its transition to a new life. It is in the foster home where the dog is assessed so that a perfect match can be made for its forever home. Interaction with family members and good socialization skills are developed.

Q: Does it matter where I live to adopt from HALO?

A: No. We work with other rescues to perform home visits around the country. We will thoroughly check your references and vet referral.

Q: Do you ship the dog?

A: No. We would prefer you travel to the location of the foster home. This would allow us to meet you in person and you to personally meet your Havanese for the first time. If it's necessary for you to fly with the dog, it could travel with you in the passenger compartment of the plane. This time would also allow for a bonding experience.

Q: How do you determine your adoption fee?

A: This fee is designed to assist HALO in recovering costs associated with the rescue of these Havanese. This cost generates no profit for our organization. Every Hav that enters our rescue goes through a thorough veterinarian exam. Our adoption fee is $500 plus medical expenses.

Q: Is the Hav house-trained?

A: We cannot guarantee it to be housebroken. Dogs coming from a puppy mill will require extra time and effort but consistency is the key to achieving this goal.

Q: How can I help?

A: A simple but rewarding way to help is by making a donation to HALO so we can continue to rescue our Havanese. Since we are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization donations are tax-deductible. A donation to HALO also makes a wonderful wedding gift, birthday present, holiday remembrance or pet memorial. We will gladly send a special HALO card to your recipient stating that you have made a donation in their name to HALO for whatever special reason or occasion.

                       Please send donations to:           HALO
                                                                                P.O. Box 748
                                                                                Monee, IL 60449.

Another way to help is to foster a newly rescued Havanese, or better yet, to adopt one of these precious little Havs! Above all, if you ever see a Havanese in need, please contact us!

Frequently Asked Questions