National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day!

Today is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day!

Today people are reminded just how many pets out there who are looking for good loving homes! The best news of all is that no matter what kind of pet someone is looking for, they are waiting for you in a shelter somewhere. While this is good news, this thought can be intimidating to some people. How will I know which pet is right for me? How do I find them?

In my experience, you just kind of know. I have shared this before and I will again. Rooney literally burst through a door and ran at my husband and I, and our response was, “We love him!”. We knew right then and there that we would adopt him. It happened that fast.

Based on Research conducted by Michelson Found Animals Foundation, we aren’t alone in our “Love at First Sight” experience:

Now, if you or someone you know, are thinking about bringing a shelter pet home with you today, or sometime soon, here are some tips from Aimee Gilbreath, Executive Director, Michelson Found Animals Foundation:

Before you adopt

Adopting a pet is a big commitment and responsibility, so make sure you are ready before you take the plunge.  Ask yourself the following questions:

• Is your lifestyle conducive to pet ownership? Are you a frequent traveler or are you home often?
• Have you thought about pet care while you are at work or traveling? How many hours in the day will you be home to care for your pet? Do you need to factor in a dog walker or day care?
• Is your living space pet friendly? How big is your home, do you have an outdoor area suitable for a bigger dog, or would a smaller dog make more sense?
• Are you financially prepared for a pet? Trips to the vet can be a financial burden if you haven’t planned ahead

If you’re unsure about whether you’re ready to adopt, consider fostering a pet before you commit to adoption. It’s a great trial run to make sure the pet is a match for you and your lifestyle. 

Before you bring your new pet home

Pet proof your home – you may not think about it, but anything that could harm a toddler could also harm a pet. Also, some plants and common foods (such as chocolate, grapes and raisins) can be poisonous to pets so you should do a little online research to be sure you’re aware. Here is a pet proofing checklist:

• Are all fragile items off coffee tables?
• Are your candles out of the pet’s reach?
• Are your electrical cords (or anything else your new pet can chew, trip or entangle itself in) secured?
• Remember that cats can jump so be sure that counter tops and other surfaces are also clear of anything harmful.
• Are your other pets kept in a safe and secure area?
• Is your yard completely fenced in?
• Are there any loose panels or gaps in your fence that your new pet can escape through?
• Are any of your plants or chemicals you use in your home or yard poisonous to dogs?
• Do you have a pool? Is it covered?
• Are all of your trash cans secured?

Some Pets Who Need Homes!

Adoptable Corgis from Queens Best Stumpy Dog Rescue

Adoptable Senior Dogs from Muttville Senior Dog Rescue

Adoptable Dogs from Family Dog Rescue

Valley Humane Society

In honor of such a special day, please list a local shelter in your area in the comments below, so people can learn more and share!

Disclaimer: The folks over at Petcurean shared this information with me, but this post is not sponsored. Simply, we want people to know the importance of pet adoption.