One of the best ways to combat puppy mills and greedy backyard breeders who care very little for the health and well-being of our beloved canine companions, is to adopt from your local shelter or other animal rescue organization. There are enough unwanted cats and dogs around, so there is no point in bringing more in the world to face the same abandonment. One couple came to adoptions and fell in love with a lovely pitbull mix we had available for adoption. There are now a new generation of “shelters” devoted to caring for these marginalized animals.
You’ll also have a much better idea of what sort of grooming requirements you’ll have to deal with, what your dog’s energy level is, how they get along with other animals, how they react to strangers, how well they travel in the car, etc. Rescuers know it well – what started as a brilliant method for sharing dogs in need and utilizing well-meaning volunteers has effectively become what many of us will consider the biggest thorn in our sides.
Perhaps a different breed of dog would fit better with your lifestyle. Your lifestyle: you should think about your lifestyle when adopting a new pet. That’s what makes him special to us. He’s a dog who likes people more than other dogs. If you have other canines in your home, we encourage you to bring them in on Sunday to meet any dogs you are considering adopting.
As an adoption counselor I want to make sure my adoptions stick so if there are any variables in the situation like other pets, disabled individuals in the home, etc. Sadly – funding and support is just not there for us to continue taking in the volumes of animals that people want us to. Our Sanctuary spends in excess of $100,000 a year taking care of these animals.
Through education and support we have helped surrounding communities to euthanize fewer dogs that are homeless. You can go online or check with your local animal shelter for the rescue group nearest you. While pet owners that live in urban areas think of their animals as part of their families, owners who live in rural areas are not as concerned about their pets.
