About Rescue - Adora Bull

Misconceptions about Rescue Bull Terriers

Misconceptions and myths about rescue dogs, particularly Bull Terriers, can often discourage people from adopting them. However, most of these are unfounded and baseless. Rescue dogs are just as lovable and deserving of adoption as any other dog. Here are some common misconceptions about rescue Bull Terriers that we’d like to address:

One common misconception is that Bull Terriers end up in a rescue due to behaviour problems. While this may be true for some, it is not the case for the majority of rescue Bull Terriers. Many Bull Terriers are abandoned due to circumstances like their owners passing away or moving to a place where pets aren’t allowed. Others may have been found as strays or given up because their previous owners didn’t have the time or patience to take care of them. Behavioural issues are not typically a problem with rescue Bull Terriers, and those that do have such issues are worked with to rehabilitate them before being placed up for adoption.
Another myth is that there is no purebred Bull Terriers in rescue. In reality, half of rescue Bull Terriers are purebred. Some people do not research the breed before purchasing them, which can lead to them abandoning their Bull Terrier once they realize they need to put in some effort to care for them.
People also tend to believe that rescue Bull Terriers are unhealthy or sick. This is not true, as all Bull Terriers that are taken in by a rescue are given a complete health exam by a veterinarian before being put up for adoption. Any medical issues will be disclosed upfront, as the goal of the rescue is to place Bull Terriers in homes where they will thrive and be loved.
Some also believe that abused rescue Bull Terriers do not make good pets. This is far from the truth, as a Bull Terrier that has been abused has so much love to give. Once they realize they are in a safe environment, they will blossom and become incredibly affectionate and loyal. With the right care and attention, they can make a full emotional recovery and provide endless love and devotion to their new owners.
One of the most frequent comments we get is that they require a puppy to grow up with their kids. While puppies are adorable, they can require significant effort. They need training and frequent attention, which can be demanding. In contrast, mature dogs usually have more interaction experience with humans than puppies, so they may be more compatible with you right from the start. Additionally, older dogs necessitate less time and attention than young puppies, so you can spend more time with your children or alone. Furthermore, older dogs are less likely to become excessively excited and accidentally harm a child during playtime. Most of them are also more patient and accepting of children’s behaviour.
There’s also the belief that rescue Bull Terriers are not loyal to their new owners. This is simply not true, as rescue dogs are known for their undying loyalty and endless love. Many just want a patient and loving human to gain their trust and love them as they deserve.
Finally, there is the myth that you cannot teach an old dog new tricks. This couldn’t be further from the truth, as older Bull Terriers are incredibly adaptable and eager to please their owners. All they need is guidance, patience, love, and leadership to learn new habits and tricks. Age is just a number when it comes to training a rescue Bull Terrier.

In conclusion, there are many myths and rumours about rescue Bull Terriers that can prevent people from adopting them. However, most of these are unfounded and baseless. Rescue dogs are just as lovable and deserving of adoption as any other dog. If you’re considering adopting a rescue Bull Terrier, we hope that these common misconceptions have been cleared up for you, and that you can open your heart and home to a deserving Bull Terrier.

Why Most Bull Terriers End Up in Rescue

Rehoming Due to Immegration

Rehoming Due to Financial Constraints, Relocation

Abandoned on Properties After Owners Move

Unclaimed Strays

Abused & Neglected Bullies

Fighting/Conflicts With Other Pets

Rescue Cases

We at Adora-Bull Terrier Rescue have been involved in some of the most heart-wrenching cases that will make your heart ache. These cases were of dogs that had little or no hope of surviving due to their critical conditions. However, we didn’t let despair consume us, and through our determination, coupled with proper medical treatment, care, and love, we were able to turn their fate around. Our rescue efforts have given these dogs a new lease on life, and they are now thriving with their loving families, leading extraordinary lives that are a testament to the resilience of the canine spirit.
We are proud to have been part of their journey to recovery, and we will continue to work tirelessly to provide a second chance to other dogs in dire situations.

Before & After

Heidi, rescued September 2014:

Heidi was Found crawling, half dead along the street in Heidelberg.

Monty, rescued April 2015:

Monty, founded by bikers, was neglected, starved and covered in mange.

Hope, rescued June 2015:

Hope was found neglected and covered in mange.

Polly, rescued January 2016:

Polly was found on a rubbish dump site in Krugersdorp, worst case of mange seen.

Danny, rescued April 2016:

Danny was found neglected, starved and full of mange in Danville.

Tiger, rescued June 2016:

Tiger was found neglected and full of mange. Passed on several times to different homes.

Cody, rescued August 2016:

Cody was found starved, half dead in a ditch in Pretoria North. Was used as a bait dog in dog fighting.

Bella B, rescued July 2017:

Bella was found starved in a veld.

Duke, rescued September 2017:

Duke was found neglected and beaten.

Onyx, rescued December 2017:

Onyx was found with severe wounds and a hole in his thorax.

Reese, December 2017:

Reese was found with his throat slit at a junk yard.

Joey, rescued July 2018:

Joey was found neglected and full of mange. Surrendered.

Blossom, rescued December 2017:

Found starved and abandoned in a veld. Used for breeding until she could not produce anymore.

George, rescued July 2018:

George was found malnourished with mange, and weighing 11kgs.

Carlun, rescued January 2019:

Carlun was found malnourished and weighing 11kgs. Surrendered.

Angel, rescued November 2019:

Angel was found malnourished and burnt with boiling water. Surrendered.

Blade, rescued March 2020:

Blade was found as a stray, attacked by other dogs, badly wounded.

Zorro, rescued May 2020:

Zorro was founded by Afripaw malnourished and weighing less than 10kgs. Surrendered to Adora-Bull

Stanley, rescued Jan 2021:

Found in a township, defeated, emaciated, riddled with worms, and worst of all, with burn wounds across 70% of his body

Badger, rescued Jan 2021:

Surrendered to Adora-Bull with almost no hair on his body. 5 Months old, suffering from severe mange. Easily corrected with proper Vet care

Henrietta, rescued Aug 2021:

Found as a stray. emaciated, riddled with worms, and worst of all, with a broken leg that had already healed crooked

Clarke, rescued Oct 2021:

Found as a stray. malnourished, riddled with ticks and worms, and a leg wound with a serious abscess

Zena, rescued Apr 2022:

Found as a stray. malnourished, bred to death full of scars

Bowie (Kratos), rescued Dec 2022:

Found as a stray in Durban, He was severely mauled, and lost an ear, and had to have skin grafts to repair his mouth. He almost lost an eye and received several lifesaving surgeries

Shiloh, rescued Dec 2022:

Found as a stray, and clearly been abused, severely neglected and overbred

Dawson, rescued Feb 2023:

Handed over after being passed from home to home. He came in emaciated (not been fed in days), with an infection that nearly cost him his eye

Lastly, our little warrior, Angel, rescued September 2017:

Owner wanted to kill her for being disabled. She has no use of her front legs

Let it Rain

It’s a disheartening reality that some can’t reach us in time. Our team devotes themselves entirely to the Bull Terrier breed, pouring their lives, time, love, and compassion into them. It’s beyond comprehension how anyone could let these incredible dogs suffer. Let us introduce you to Rain.

Rain was discovered alone, bewildered, and defeated. As a Bull Terrier, she knew she had lost the battle. Weighing under 10kg, she was neglected, starved, and suffered from a severe ear infection that had caused her to lose her hearing. Just as we found her, the worst news came to us; her lungs were filled with cancer.

Rain’s time with us was brief, but she gave a face to the numerous forgotten dogs that desperately need us. September 1st will now forever be known as Rain Day in our rescue, reminding us of our purpose and duty.
Farewell, darling girl. Thank you for allowing us to grant you one last kindness, the greatest act of love. Rest softly and wait for us, renewed and whole. Know that we loved you, and you mattered.

Adora-Bull and Medical Care Provided

At our rescue centre, all Bull Terriers in our care are given the best possible start. Before they are rehomed, we make sure that they are vaccinated, micro-chipped, and sterilized. However, our dedication to our furry friends doesn’t end there.

Over the years, there have been cases where some of our Bull Terriers required special care. This included physiotherapy, hydro-therapy, and even prosthetic enhancements to aid their mobility. Fortunately, we have a fantastic network of veterinarians and service providers who have been exceptionally kind to us and our Bull Terriers. They provide us with their expertise and services at a reduced rescue rate, or sometimes even at no charge at all.

At Adora-Bull, we believe in paying it forward and giving back to the community. We have provided and paid for veterinary care for families who couldn’t afford it. We understand the love and bond that forms between a family and their pet, and we strive to ensure that no pet suffers due to a lack of financial resources.

Our commitment to the Bull Terrier breed is unwavering, and we will continue to do everything we can to ensure that they receive the best possible care, love, and support.

Gone, but Never Forgotten

Bull Terriers and Children
Introduction

One of the most common questions we receive from first-time dog owners or those unfamiliar with the Bull Terrier breed is whether these dogs are good with kids. It is a valid concern as children may not always understand how to interact with dogs properly, and a dog’s temperament can play a significant role in how they respond to kids. However, like many other breeds, the Bull Terrier’s temperament depends on how well it was socialized from a young age.

It is crucial to socialize any dog with people, especially children, so they can learn to tolerate their behaviour. Kids tend to be curious and playful, but they may inadvertently tease or provoke a dog without realizing it. The dog’s response to this behaviour will depend on how it was raised and socialized. Therefore, we strongly advise against putting any child around a dog that has not been well socialized.

Bull Terriers that have been raised correctly around children are fantastic pets and as kind-hearted as they come. They love children and make great playmates! However, since we deal with rescue Bull Terriers, we often don’t know their history or background. Our behaviourists assess the dogs themselves by spending time with them and observing them.
We will never place a Bull Terrier in a home if we are not entirely sure that it will work. We won’t set a dog up for failure, but it’s also important for new owners to follow our guidelines. It’s essential to take extra care when you have children in your home.
Remember that when you rescue a dog, you’re bringing a virtual stranger into your home. This stranger has no idea what the rules and boundaries are, so it’s essential to teach them and ensure that everyone in your home follows the same rules and boundaries. Parents must lay down the “do’s and don’ts,” and it’s essential to maintain respect for the dog at all times. Unfortunately, a lack of knowledge on the child’s part has led to instances where the dog was frightened, leading to a bite or nip, and the poor dog being blamed for lack of human parenting skills. This could even result in a dog being re-homed or, worse, euthanized.
The most crucial rule to remember is that smaller children and dogs should never be left alone unsupervised. Although older children may be more compatible, respect for the dog must always be maintained. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a harmonious relationship between your Bull Terrier and your family.

Do’s and Don’ts for Children

Bull Terriers are prone to getting overexcited, so it is important to keep their excitement levels under control.
Children should be taught not to excite a dog too much. Loud screaming, yelling, and rough play must be discouraged around any dog.
Children should also be taught not to tease a dog or push them beyond their limits. Dogs that are teased or pushed too hard will snap or bite.
Children should never pull a dog’s tail or ears, slap them, jump on them, or try to ride them. Hugging or kissing a dog should also be avoided.
A dog will let you know when they are comfortable receiving affection by leaning on you, licking you, or lying down in your presence.
Never chase a dog that is walking or running away, and always give them space when they turn away or avoid interacting. Explain to children why the dog does not want to interact.
Never disturb a dog while they are eating, and do not attempt to take their food while they are eating.
Never disturb a sleeping dog. Always call the dog and let them know you are approaching.
Discourage letting a dog sleep with smaller children on their beds until you are 100% sure the dog will not react if the child has a nightmare or startles the dog.
A wagging tail does not necessarily mean the dog is friendly.
Teach children basic signs that a dog is unhappy and may become reactive, such as yawning, lip licking, whites of eyes showing, avoiding, growling or lip raised, head low and tail between legs, hair raised behind neck, etc.
If a dog is injured, children should be taught not to touch or try to help it and to get an adult to assist. Even family dogs have been known to bite in a situation where they have been injured.
Encourage children to participate in the daily care of the dog, such as feeding and watering, and allow them to come with you to take the dog for a walk.

Bull Terriers, Cats and Other Animals
Introduction

The question of whether Bull Terriers can coexist with cats and other animals is a complicated one, and unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer.
This is due to the fact that many Terrier breeds were originally bred for their aggression towards other animals, including dogs. Bull Terriers, in particular, were originally bred to hunt and kill vermin, and they possess a natural prey drive that may be triggered when they encounter a cat or other small animal. When this happens, the Bull Terrier may give chase and shake the smaller animal, which can result in the animal’s death. A simple game for the Bull Terrier, can be fatal for a cat or a smaller animal.
While cohabitation with cats and other animals may prove to be challenging for this breed, it is not impossible. Socialization from a young age is key in helping Bull Terriers coexist peacefully with cats and other animals. Ongoing training and supervision may also be necessary for Bull Terriers and cats (or other animals) to coexist in the same household.
However, it is important to note that even if a Bull Terrier manages to get along with a cat or other animal, it may still hunt other cats that it perceives as prey. Moreover, cohabitation can cause other issues since this breed can be exclusive in nature and likes to be the centre of attention.

Unfortunately, many Bull Terriers end up in rescue centres due to not being socialized properly at a young age, which can lead to incidents with cats or smaller dogs. In many of these unfortunate incidents, the smaller animal ends up being killed.

Unexpectedly, despite having lived in the same home for years without displaying any aggression towards humans, a Bull Terrier is forced to leave due to the owners’ sudden fear for their safety in the presence of a dangerous dog. Unfortunately, this decision stems from the owners’ lack of foresight, inadequate understanding of the breed, and setting the dog up for failure. However, Bull Terriers can still flourish in homes with no cats or small dogs, and in such environments, they can become beloved and devoted companions for owners who appreciate and comprehend their limitations.

When it comes to other dogs, Bull Terriers tend to get along better with dogs that are of a similar size and from a different, more relaxed breed, such as Labrador or golden retrievers, pointers, border collies, or larger spaniels. Smaller toy dogs are not ideal playmates, as the Bull Terrier may give chase or end up injuring the smaller dog.
When it comes to power breeds, such as Pitbulls, Adora-Bull (a rescue centre) always errs on the side of caution. While both Bull Terriers and Pitbulls have a history of dog aggression, they can often live peacefully in multi-dog households. However, Adora-Bull generally avoids homing these breeds together, as the risk is too great. Since they often don’t have the full history of their rescues, it could be a recipe for disaster. Each case is judged on its own merits.

We take this policy seriously and have implemented stringent measures to ensure that all potential adopters understand and adhere to our expectations. This includes extensive screening processes, in-depth interviews, and home visits to assess the safety and suitability of the environment for both the Bull Terrier and any other animals in the home.
We acknowledge that our stringent policies may sometimes lead to disappointment or frustration from potential adopters who may not fully comprehend our approach. However, we ask that everyone understand that our primary concern is the welfare and safety of ALL animals. Therefore, if we cannot find a safe and suitable home for a rescue Bull Terrier, we will not proceed with the adoption, no matter how urgent the situation may seem.

We ask that all potential adopters respect and understand our approach and policies, as they are designed to ensure that our rescue Bull Terriers find loving and safe forever homes where they can thrive and live out their lives in happiness and security. At Adora-Bull Terrier Rescue, we remain dedicated to our mission of rescuing and rehoming these loving and deserving animals while always prioritizing their safety and welfare above all else.

Why Adora-Bull Rescue believes in sterilization, and its benefits?
Introduction

Every single year, a staggering number of unwanted dogs and cats are subjected to euthanasia at shelters and SPCAs all around the world. Although it is commonly believed that pet behavioural issues are the main cause for this grim reality, the true reasons behind this heart-breaking phenomenon are much more complex. In fact, animals are surrendered to shelters for a variety of reasons, such as relocating to a new home, financial difficulties, or simply losing interest in the pet. Furthermore, a significant number of orphaned animals are born as a result of accidental breeding between free-roaming and unaltered pets.

As a result of this dire situation, rescue organizations like Adora-Bull are struggling to cope with the overwhelming number of unwanted dogs they receive. Despite their best efforts to save as many animals as possible, limited space forces them to turn away many dogs in need of a loving home.

To address this issue, spaying and castrating your pet can be an effective solution. These are surgical procedures that render your dog incapable of reproducing. Typically, the procedure involves removing the ovaries and uterus in females, and the testicles in males. While it is preferable to sterilize your pet when they are still young, adult dogs can also undergo the procedure. These surgeries are performed under general anaesthesia and require a short recovery period. By spaying or neutering your pet, you can help to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats, ultimately:

A Longer Happier, Healthier Life:

A comprehensive study involving 2.2 million dogs has revealed that spayed dogs enjoy a longer lifespan, with a 23% increase compared to their un-spayed counterparts. Sterilizing your pet can also help to eliminate several health issues that commonly affect dogs. These conditions can be both emotionally and financially taxing, making it imperative to consider spaying or neutering your furry friend.
In female dogs, spaying involves the surgical removal of reproductive organs, which can significantly reduce the risk of several cancers, such as mammary gland tumours, ovarian and uterine cancer. Additionally, uterus infections, commonly known as pyometra, can be life-threatening to female dogs. Removing the uterus can significantly reduce the risks posed by this condition.
For male dogs, castration or neutering is crucial to minimize the chances of developing testicular and prostate cancer, which are common in older dogs. Although tumours are often benign, they can grow substantially and become painful, sometimes secreting harmful hormones. The recommended treatment is castration, but surgery is more complicated and has greater risks when performed on older dogs than on young dogs.
Furthermore, uncastrated male dogs often develop benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as they age, which causes discomfort and strain during urination, often requiring medication for life. Over time, this excess straining can lead to hernias and prolapses, which can be both expensive and complicated to treat.
Many dog owners have reported a significant improvement in their dog’s behaviour and temperament after spaying or neutering. This is because several changes occur in a dog’s body once they are sterilized, which may be more noticeable in male dogs. While sterilizing your dog will not change their personality, it is likely to change certain sex hormone-driven behaviours that can lead to problematic behaviour. For male dogs, neutering can help decrease the likelihood of aggressive behaviour, including fights with other dogs. It also reduces the chances of dogs roaming around the neighbourhood, marking territory or mounting other dogs or people.
For female dogs, spaying can bring about several benefits, including the reduction in the frequency of urination, which is often a tactic used to attract male dogs during heat. Additionally, not going into heat reduces the risk of other dogs entering the area where the female dog is.
Overall, spaying or neutering can also lead to an increase in a dog’s focus or concentration, making it easier for them to learn and follow commands. Therefore, in addition to the various health benefits associated with sterilizing your pet, such as the prevention of various cancers and infections, it can also help to improve your dog’s behaviour and reduce problematic behaviours.

Spayed Pets Don’t Go into Heat:

Female dogs typically experience two heat cycles in a year, which last for approximately 10 days each. During this period, they may display excessive bleeding and urination. However, spaying your pet is an effective way to prevent her from ever entering the heat cycle and exhibiting such behaviours.

Your Pet won’t Gain Weight from being Spayed or Neutered:

When you neuter or spay your pet, you may notice a reduction in their overall activity level, natural tendency to wander, and hormonal balances, which can have an impact on their appetite. However, it’s important to note that pets who become overweight and lethargic after being altered are typically overfed and lack proper exercise. Similar to people, pets become overweight due to a lack of exercise and overeating. To ensure your pet remains fit and healthy, it’s essential to provide them with enough exercise and a healthy diet in moderation.

You’ll Save Money:

Although there is a cost associated with spaying or neutering your pet, it is important to consider the long-term financial benefits. By choosing to have your pet altered, you can prevent many serious health problems that may arise in the future, such as certain types of cancer and infections of the reproductive system. These health issues can require extensive medical treatment, which can be costly and time-consuming. Therefore, investing in the one-time cost of spaying or neutering can ultimately save you money in the long run, while also ensuring the health and well-being of your beloved pet.

It Helps Fight Overpopulation:

Compared to humans, dogs have the ability to reproduce at an astonishing rate, up to 15 times faster. This phenomenon contributes to the global issue of pet overpopulation, with unplanned litters being one of the leading causes of euthanasia for animals worldwide. As a responsible pet owner, preventing unexpected litters is an essential aspect of animal care. With animal shelters already overcrowded, it is highly probable that puppies resulting from unplanned litters may end up in shelters. Thus, it is important to entrust breeding to responsible individuals who can ensure that the planned litter will have loving, lifelong homes before deciding to breed.

In Conclusion

At Adora-Bull, we have a strict policy of requiring all current pets to be sterilized before placing an Adora-Bull dog in their home, unless medical proof can be provided to the contrary. This policy has led to several arguments and lost homes, but we stand firm in our belief. It’s important to note that even when one dog is sterilized, hormonal behaviours and fighting can still occur with an unsterilized dog, particularly if the unsterilized dog is reacting to a nearby dog in heat, such as a neighbour’s dog or one on the street. This can cause irritability and even lead to fights between the dogs.

By requiring sterilization of all pets, we aim to prevent any potential conflicts and ensure a safe and happy home for both the new Adora-Bull dog and any existing pets.