So, you want a dog?




So many adult dogs, so many potentially great dogs, are out there waiting for someone to love them. That's why it's such a good idea, and such a kind decision, to find a dog who, for the most part, knows the ropes or is ready and eager to learn.

Adopting an adult dog who has no other chance in life is one of the most satisfying and moral things you can do as an animal lover. But, sure, you have your standards, there's dogs that will work for you and dogs that won't so how do you...


Pick the very best one for you

What's your lifestyle?

The one thing to remember in assessing a possible pet is that the Shelter is not a home. How the dogs act here may, and probably won't be, the way they act when they get to your house. (Click here for more information on how to help your pet adjust.) Once you understand this, and that it will take time for your pet to become acclimated to your home environment, consider how you live, where you live, and whether you think the dog or dogs you're interested in could adjust with your help.

Dogs seek out people and take obvious pleasure in their company. Live up to their expectations.

Are you and your family laid back, are you retired, do you have physical limitations that would keep you from romping with a happy-go-lucky Rottweiler? Well, then, why not that older dog, the one in the kennel that isn't twirling around vying for your attention, but sits patiently in the corner, looking up with soulful eyes?

Do you or your family lead an active lifestyle - playing sports, hiking, canoeing - or do you live in the country or in a roomy neighborhood? Why not that mixed shepherd who could not only be loyal and athletic, but protective? Why not the spaniel mix who has the ability to guard, herd, and retrieve - the perfect candidate for agility classes, and if you're really into it, competition in the ring! For a fantastic example of how far our shelter dogs can go in the right hands, check out Sid's story. If you simply want a loving companion, then try out the dogs at the Shelter. Walk them, talk to them, spend time to see if things click. When they do, you gotta a match!

What age, what size?

The stories about puppy mills - their cruelty, neglect, and anything-for-a buck mentality - are horrendous. Why support them? If you're looking for a good companion, a dog you can walk away with and begin your life together with less training than that required for a puppy, an adult dog is the answer. The age depends on you. Some people see a dog that appeals to them immediately, and age is irrelevant. Any amount of time left to the dog is valuable, and older dogs in shelters are truly the saddest. Why not brighten the years they have left?

If you really really want a younger dog, there are countless dogs from 1 year up who would give their left paw to have their own family. Check out our Shelter as often as you like; come visit the dogs we have waiting for homes and work with the ones you've narrowed your choice to. Perhaps you could become a Sponsor to give yourself time to decide. Taking some time to make your decision is a good idea, keeping in mind that the animal may be adopted by someone else if you take a little too long! (Of course, we would call you to let you know someone else is interested.)

So, you want a cat?

Cats are easier to decide upon. There are just a few considerations: Do you like the look of a long-haired cat, and are you willing to groom the cat so shedding on your furniture doesn't become a problem? Are you looking for a lazy cat who just wants to cuddle up on a chair? Then an older cat is perfect. If you want a lively little creature running around, batting at shoes and jumping from chair to chair, and scuttling around in funny hiding places, then a younger cat may be for you. Just remember: kittens are cute, but mature cats need homes too! And we have many, in every color and temperament. You're bound to find what you're looking for!