Advantages of Shelter Adoptions
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Some people could never entertain the thought of adopting a dog from a rescue or shelter while others couldn’t dream of paying thousands of dollars for pedigree papers. Adopting a dog from a shelter is a loving act and also less costly.
And while adopting from a shelter is incredible noble and loving, making the adoption a successful one takes some work.
First and foremost you will be helping the shelter care for one less dog. If you’ve ever walked the halls of an ASPCA or animal shelter, you know how overwhelming working in a shelter could be. As an animal lover, one look at those big eyes pleading to pet me, take me home and love me tugs on your heartstrings.
For the dog rescuing means that you are saving the dog from possible “elimination”, i.e. being put down, and giving him a loving home. As an adoptive owner, you’ll save money as it is much less expensive to adopt than it is to buy a dog from a breeder.
The money you pay is for the shelter, not for profit. In addition, you usually receive free shots and vet exams. And even more beneficial? Most dogs are spayed or neutered before being considered for adoption.
The Worries of Shelter Adoptions
It’s what every potential dog owner dreads. You bring home your sweet new friend and once you get him home, Kujo appears. If this is your nightmare, then worry no more. The ASPCA has strict standards before allowing their dogs to be adopted out. And animals that are considered dangerous or hostile are never allowed out on the floor. Volunteer trainers help local shelter and donate their time and knowledge to help train dogs with behavior issues.
Many prospective dog owners even have a home study by a shelter volunteer before they are allowed to bring the pet home. These are all measure to ensure that the dog is getting a good home and that the fit for owner and dog are right.
Tips to Make Everything Easy
If you are considering adoption or getting a dog from the breeder, then make sure you have thought about the benefits and consequences that dog ownership would have on your life. Do your home work.
A dog is a commitment in time, energy and money. The rewards are great but understand the emotional and physical needs of your dog before you take it on.
However knowing the traits of the purebreds could help you determine characteristics that are both wanted and unwanted in a potential pet.
For example, if you don’t want a dog that likes to lie around, a bulldog might not be for you. If you want a high energy companion, consider a Jack Russell. The more information that you are armed with before you walk into the shelter, the happier you will be after.
While shelters have purebreds, there are no guarantees that a purebred will be there when you decide to adopt. The SPCA is not the only place to adopt a dog. Local shelters are great to. And if you have your heart set on a breed think about breed rescue center.
For example the German Sheperd Rescue takes in stray German Sheperd dogs from all ages. While the dogs waits for its new home, he is being placed in a foster home where he receives care and extra training if needed.
All you need to do to find the rescue organization for a specific breed is to type rescue, the breed and your city.
The most important thing that you could do before taking a new pup home is to simply spend time with him one-on-one in the shelter. Usually shelters have private rooms where you can sit, play and get to know your potential furry friend. And while this allows you to see if the dog is one you would consider, it also allows the dog some adjustments to you. Use this time to notice any disabilities or health issues that you should speak with someone working at the shelter about.
There’s a dog that’s right for you, it just might take more than one visit to find him!
