If you are at all familiar with the breeds of dogs that are classified as mastiffs, you already know that they are good natured, powerful, intelligent animals that can make a fine addition to any home. What you might not know, however, is that these beautiful dogs can often find themselves abandoned, either by owners who can no longer care for them, are unable to handle them, or whose owners have died. This is where mastiff rescues come in, and whether you are in place where you can adopt a mastiff or you simply want to help with time or money, these organizations might be exactly what you are looking for.

The first thing to think about is why a mastiff might be at a mastiff rescue. The reasons are quite varied and knowing a little bit about them can tell you a little bit more about the animal himself. In the first place, far too many people believe that they have the time and the resources to own a mastiff when it turns out that this is really not the case. Mastiffs are intelligent dogs and require a great deal when it comes to mental stimulation. Left too much alone, they can easily become destructive, something that some owners can't cope with or train out of them.

Other mastiffs are strays, and were found as puppies or adults wandering around without an owner; more often than not, these dogs were abandoned by their owners. Most tragically, many dogs that you find at mastiff rescues were taken from unhealthy or dangerous situations created by their own owners. While many of the mastiffs that are rescued from people who mistreated them need to be put down for viciousness, wounds or behavioral issues, there are still a good number that can benefit from gentle firm treatment and a good home and who will bloom as family pets.

There are many reasons to adopt a mastiff from a rescue. The first reason is pure altruism. You can give a mastiff that was mistreated or abused a second chance at a good home, while freeing up space for another similarly abandoned animal to have a chance at the same. Secondly, and perhaps more importantly when you are looking for a family pet, you'll be able to get a good account of the animal from the mastiff rescue staff. The staffs at mastiff rescue are very careful to screen both the human applicants and the animals themselves, and an animal that is vicious or in poor shape will never be released to a new master.

Many of the animals at mastiff rescues were formerly in excellent homes that, for one reason or another were unable to keep them. You'll find that these animals are amazingly well socialized and starved for attention. You can even find mastiffs that have been familiar with children or with other dogs and animals, making them an excellent fit for your home. While you will always want to arrange introductions, it is always a great thing to have an animal that doesn't need to be acclimatized to your home.

A mastiff rescue performs a vital function, and if you are looking to adopt, a mastiff rescue might be the perfect place to meet the newest four-legged member of your family. Take some time to find the mastiff rescue closest to you and see what they have available!