ADOPT A PET

Thank goodness for the humane society, SPCA, rescue organizations and hardworking, dedicated animal shelter volunteers! Without them, there is no telling how many more dogs and cats would die each year. Dog rescuers and cat rescuers scan animal shelters constantly, looking for puppies and kittens of all ages whose time at the animal shelter has almost run out due to overcrowding, and giving them a second chance before they are euthanized. They all rely on volunteers and donations to keep their efforts going. Many rescues use a network of foster families, who keep pets for adoption in their own homes while they assess their personalities and often provide any necessary training. Rescues are very careful to make sure their adoptable dogs and cats go to the right homes.

Pet adoption = an instant friend for life: Ask anybody who has adopted a pet, and they'll swear their bond with their rescued pal is as deep as they come. When you open your heart and your home to a pet who needs help, they really do show their appreciation for the rest of their life! Dogs or cats who have been uprooted from their homes, or have had difficult beginnings are likely to bond completely and deeply with their new human caretakers, whom they regard as heroes. Pups and kitties who find themselves in the shelter or at a rescue because of a death or other tragedy in their former human family usually go through a mourning period. Once they are adopted, however, they usually want nothing more than to please their new hero---YOU! No matter what circumstances brought them to the rescue, most cats and dogs for adoption are exceptionally affectionate and attentive, and make extremely loyal companions.

Training and Socialization: Many rescue organizations use foster homes, where puppies and kittens for adoption are socialized with children and other dogs and cats, and given basic obedience training before they go to their new homes. Many dogs and cats in animal shelters and humane societies are already housebroken, trained and ready to go! As an added bonus, many organizations offer post-adoption workshops and training classes. When you adopt from these animal shelters, you'll have their continued support to help you through any rough spots you face during your dog or and cat's transition.