Once in the DRNA system, most of the dogs only spend a short time in foster homes. The Dachshunds are accessed in a home environment so their behavior can be observed. Interested adopters can then be given accurate information about how the Dachshunds will relate to other dogs, cats, children, men, and women. Unfortunately, many dogs in the rescue system have been abused and may be afraid of anything that resembles their abusers. Dachshund Rescue volunteers also try to work on house training skills if the dogs are not properly potty trained. (Dachshunds are notorious for their submissive and excited peeing in the house.) Foster volunteers also make sure the dogs are fed well, played with, and given lots of attention so they forget about their unpleasant past.

Dachshund Rescue also makes sure the rescued dogs see a veterinarian. The wiener dogs are given the necessary vaccines, a good dental cleaning, and heartworm tests. The vets also try to identify any conditions that may affect the dog’s care, such as back problems, seizures, or diabetes.