Animal shelters can be a good source of many different types of fine quality pets. Most shelters accept dogs and cats, and some also accept birds, small mammals and even horses.
The reasons animals are in shelters vary. Many animals in shelters are pets whose owners can no longer care for them for several reasons. This may be because their owners:
Are moving and cannot take their pet with them Have health problems Have become incapacitated or died Do not have time for the pet because of changes in their lifestyle, e.g.; new baby, ill family member Have other pets who do not get along with this one Realize they should never have gotten a pet Other animals are brought to shelters because they are homeless or come from abusive situations.
Before you go to a shelter make sure this is what YOU want to do. Having a pet is a big commitment. This animal will be spending years of her life with you. So, before you go to a shelter, it is important to ask yourself several questions:
Am I emotionally, financially and personally ready to take the responsibility of having a new pet?
Do I understand the nutritional, housing, and health requirements of this pet?
Have I acquired the necessary items needed to take care of this pet, and have I "pet-proofed" my house?
Do I know what type of pet I want, e.g.; species, breed or size, temperament, gender, age, energy level? Write down the characteristics you are looking for. We have heard many stories of people who went to a shelter with one type of pet in mind, and "fell in love" with an entirely different type of animal, and adopted him. Sometimes this worked out fine; other times, the owner regretted the on the spur of the moment decision. Be sure to think carefully about what type of pet you are looking for.
Are all of the family members in agreement about getting a new pet?
Have guidelines been set for the feeding, grooming, discipline and training, and cleaning up after the pet?
Choosing a pet: It may be overwhelming to see the number of animals you have to choose from. Take your list of desired characteristics with you to remind you of any limitations you have on your choice of animal. Remember size, temperament, sex, age and coat.
The behavior of a caged animal is not always the same as the behavior the animal would have in a home environment. Do not necessarily overlook the animals which may appear quiet, scared or overly excited. Talk to the staff regarding the animal's temperament, and remove the animal to a quiet place where you may better observe his personality.
