Hello,

     I feel as though I've hit a wall and I didn't know if anyone could 
help. My family has owned collie mixes from rescues since I was a baby. 
After we lost our last dog, Lucky, to lymphoma, we made the decision to 
adopt another dog from a rescue. 
     Here's the problem: I've applied on 4 separate occasions for 4 
different collie mix puppies from different area rescues, given vet phone 
numbers as references and puppy proofed my home for any volunteer 
inspections. Each of these dogs has been adopted to other families and no 
one from any rescues has called my vet for references or inspected my home. 
     We've never left any of our dogs alone for long periods of time or 
abused them; and they all get regular exercise and socialization with other 
dogs.  
     Am I doing something wrong? Has this process gotten more intense over 
the years? The last time we adopted was in 1992. If anyone has any 
suggestions, it would be really helpful. 

Thanks,
      Jess