Adopt a Shelter Dog
Have you been thinking about getting a dog? If so, now is the time! The month of October has been
designated as “Adopt a Shelter Dog.” There are nearly millions of dogs that live in shelters nationwide.
Shelter dogs do not have the amount of space or love they deserve. In addition, thousands of dogs
do not get adopted and end up euthanized due to the lack of available shelter space. You can help by
adopting a dog from you local shelter. After reading our facts and guide, get out there and adopt a
shelter dog today!
The Shelter Pet Project
Did You Know?
Approximately 4 million dogs and cats in animal shelters are killed each year because they don’t
get adopted.
25-30% of dogs for adoption in animal shelters are purebred.
The remaining 70-75% are lovable and wonderful mixed-breed dogs that are just waiting for a
new parent to adopt them.
Many humane societies, SPCAs and dog rescue organizations provide adoption counseling to help
match you up with the perfect dog.
Many dogs are in animal shelters because their previous owner had some issue preventing them
from keeping their pet , for example a family tragedy, move, or an unlucky circumstances. Rarely
is a dog in a shelter because there was a problem with the them.
Mixed breed dogs have less inbreeding therefore generating less inherited genetic diseases. This
means overall lower veterinarian bills for owners.
Top 5 Reasons to Adopt
You will save a dog's life
Your dog will be a healthy pet from the animal shelter
It is affordable and you will save money
You will feel better about yourself with purpose and fulfillment
You can find a dog that is already trained
Step #1 – Research & Preparation
Make sure you can afford taking care of a dog. One of the main reasons dogs are brought to
shelters is because their owners could not afford to take care of them. Research the cost of dog
food, toys and veterinarian care. You might be surprised.
Make sure you are familiar with the responsibilities of taking care of a dog. Most dogs from
a shelter are already trained in some areas, but keep in mind your dog needs to be fed, kept
active, watched closely at times and so on. You or another designated person has to be the
primary caretaker. Are you up to the challenge on becoming a responsible dog owner?
Are you or anyone close to you allergic to dogs?
Can you have a dog where you live?
Does your residence have enough room for a dog inside and outside?
Do you have children at home? Some dogs are great for children and some are not. Be sure to
research the types of breeds that are great with kids.
Go online and research what local animal shelters are in your area.
Once you find an animal shelter that you wish to visit, make sure the staff is friendly and
knowledgeable on each pets’ behavior.
Be sure to bring your ID and some form of payment. Try calling the animal shelter ahead of time
to find out what are the requirements on adopting a dog.
While at the animal shelter, the pets and facility should be clean. If the cages are dirty and the
pets look distant or timid, then you should try another place.
If you have others living in your home like children, adults or even another dog, bring them with
you to the animal shelter. This will give you the ability to test out your new dog’s interaction
with others you live with. This way you can make sure everyone gets along and no one has allergies.
Have patience when trying to find the right dog to adopt. Having chemistry between you and
your dog is key. Visiting an animal shelter can be an emotional experience and it may feel
overwhelming.
Once you find the dog you wish to adopt, be prepared to fill out an application. The actual
process of adopting a dog varies by shelter, so it is a good idea to call ahead of time or research
the process online.
Adoption is not free, so be prepared to pay a fee or donation.
Research as much as you can and go shopping on www.EntirelyPets.com for proper materials.
See our recommended shopping list below.
Everyone in your household should know their role. Bringing home a new dog is a big deal and a
life you will be taking care of for a very long time.
Prepare your home by making it a peaceful place to help your new dog adjust. Have a designated
sleeping area, place to eat, toys to play with and an outside area to urinate and defecate.
Step #1 – Research & Preparation
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