Adopting From a Humane Society or Shelter

I am a HUGE fan of adopting your next pet from a Humane Society or shelter. Just because someone has decided to give the animal away does not mean it is a “bad” dog, it just means it did not fit with it’s original owners.

As you know (from reading my “About the Author” section) I volunteered at my local Humane Society for quite some time and I owe some of what I have learned about animals from my time there. That shelter was a no-kill shelter which means that the staff took in every single dog and cat they could and no animals were put down (unless due to severe health problems). They even had a separate room (the attic of the gift shop) where they housed cats that had been diagnosed with feline leukemia – these cats were not put to sleep.

If you are looking for a dog at a shelter, I recommend going to a no-kill shelter. This decision is up to you, I just don’t want to support that kind of treatment to animals. The staff that will be there to help you will be wonderful; at Humane Societies the whole entire staff is volunteer workers so they are there because they care about animals and want to see them in good homes. Also, you will feel less pressure to purchase a dog you are interested in if you know they are not in mortal danger. A pet is a big decision, one that needs time, research and careful consideration. If you rush into your decision, you may be the very person dropping your pet off at a shelter.

The cost of adopting an animal from a shelter or Humane Society is not very much (usually below $100) and it includes up to date shots, as well as spaying or neutering. I can personally vouch for the personality and hearts of the animals: they can be the absolute sweetest things in the whole world!!

Most commonly, you’ll see mixed breeds, but on occasion some purebred animals are in there too. If you have a breed preference, see if your local or state sponsored shelter has a waiting list you could be put on, or what other procedures they might have in place. Another thing to consider if you really have your heart set on a specific breed is contacting a breed rescue group and seeing what their availability is (how long the waiting list is). There are many options out there, you just have to make sure and do your research before handing over your money. There are lots of scams out there so WATCH OUT!!

I just really want to re-emphasize how truly unique and loving animals at humane societies and shelters can be if you just give them a chance. If you are at all considering getting an animal, at least check out what your humane society or shelter has to offer, you may find exactly what you are looking for!!!

Thanks for reading! As always your participation in comments and discussions is encouraged and greatly appreciated!!

This entry was posted on Wednesday, September 26th, 2007 at 01:32 pm and is filed under Dogs, PetStrong. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.