Pet Adoption

By Barbara Lombardi

Animal shelters can be a good source of many different types of fine quality pets. Most shelters accept dogs and cats, and some also accept birds, small mammals and even horses.

The reasons animals are in shelters vary. Many animals in shelters are pets whose owners can no longer care for them for several reasons. This may be because their owners:

• Are moving and cannot take their pet with them;
• Have health problems;
• Have become incapacitated or died;
• Do not have time for the pet because of changes in their lifestyle, e.g.; new baby, ill family member;
• Have other pets who do not get along with this one;
• Realize they should never have gotten a pet;
• Other animals are brought to shelters because they are homeless or come from abusive situations.

Before you go to a shelter make sure this is what YOU want to do. Having a pet is a big commitment. This animal will be spending years of her life with you. So, before you go to a shelter, it is important to ask yourself several questions:

• Am I emotionally, financially and personally ready to take the responsibility of having a new pet?
• Do I understand the nutritional, housing, and health requirements of this pet?
• Have I acquired the necessary items needed to take care of this pet, and have I "pet-proofed" my house?
• Do I know what type of pet I want, e.g.; species, breed or size, temperament, gender, age, energy level? Write down the characteristics you are looking for. We have heard many stories of people who went to a shelter with one type of pet in mind, and "fell in love" with an entirely different type of animal, and adopted him. Sometimes this worked out fine; other times, the owner regretted the on the spur of the moment decision. Be sure to think carefully about what type of pet you are looking for.
• Are all of the family members in agreement about getting a new pet?
• Have guidelines been set for the feeding, grooming, discipline and training, and cleaning up after the pet?

Choosing a pet

It may be overwhelming to see the number of animals you have to choose from. Take your list of desired characteristics with you to remind you of any limitations you have on your choice of animal. Remember size, temperament, sex, age and coat.

The behavior of a caged animal is not always the same as the behavior the animal would have in a home environment. Do not necessarily overlook the animals which may appear quiet, scared or overly excited. Talk to the staff regarding the animal's temperament, and remove the animal to a quiet place where you may better observe his personality.

It is important that the whole family meet the pet, including children and other pets. The meeting should take place in a quiet, neutral environment with the shelter staff present.

Benefits of adopting from shelters

Adopting pets from shelters can have many rewards. Many people say they are so happy that they could save the life of a wonderful animal by giving him a new and loving home. It is estimated that 4 to 6 million dogs and cats are euthanized in America's animal shelters every year. Shelters are filled with animals who were and could continue to be great pets, as well as animals who, with a little training, can become a cherished member of the family.

Myths about animals from shelters

Some people think that all animals in shelters were surrendered because of behavioral problems. This is not true. Many animals in shelters have impeccable behavior and habits. If the reason the animal was brought to the shelter was a behavior problem, it may have been more a problem with the previous owner's behavior than the animal's. Training takes time, patience and consistency; if the owner is lacking any of these, the animal's behavior will suffer.

Other people believe that you cannot train an adult dog: "you can't teach old dogs new tricks." This, too, is untrue. Older animals can easily learn bad habits or good habits; it is up to the owner.

Bonding with your new pet is very important, so spend as much time with her as you can. Play with her and be with her as she explores her new surroundings. Have her sleep in the same room as you. If your new pet is a dog, have her sleep in a crate next to the bed, or tied to the bed with a short rope.

Having a crate for your new pet is a good idea. You may think, "But she's been caged in the shelter; I don't want to cage her again." A cage in your home will be more like a den to your new pet and keep her safe while you are not around to monitor her activities. Some animals may find the space of a whole house overwhelming and find comfort in a small cozy place they can call their own.

Animal shelters provide an invaluable service of providing safe havens for animals and matching them to new, loving owners. Adopting an animal from a shelter can be a wonderful experience if you are well prepared for a new pet. Shelters are also a great place to volunteer your time. You will be glad you did.

About the Author:

After moving to Florida I decided to combine my love for writing with my knowledge of pets. For ten years I owned and operated a local pet sitting service and gained a wealth of information regarding pet care. In addition I have been an English teacher for several years as well as an aspiring writer. I recently completed a Masters Degree in Educational technology and I am looking forward to teaching college classes online. I am freelance writing and living happily in Florida with my husband and our Nikki, the most lovable golden retriever I know.

Article courtesy of Suite101.com.