Where to Find a Dog?

Animal Shelters

Animal shelters are excellent places to find a new pet. Shelters are usually run by local governments, or by caring citizens who form private non-profit groups. Shelters can be found under many different names, such as: humane societies, animal protection leagues, the pound, the cruelty society, animal care and control, foster homes, etc. There are several national organizations that help to promote the good work that is done on behalf of abandoned pets:

• American Humane Association (AHA)
• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)
• Humane Society of the United States (HSUS)
• North Shore Animal League
• Project Breed
  
  

With the very real problem of pet overpopulation in the United States, shelters are bulging with large numbers of cats and dogs that are in need of a good home. These are animals that have been turned-in by their owners for one reason or another, or have entered as strays, with no one to claim them. Unfortunately, with limited space and resources, the majority of pets that enter a shelter must be put to death unless they are adopted by a new owner. Certain shelters are able to stretch their resources and have a "no-kill" policy in place, but tragically most facilities are unable to maintain this type of policy.

The good news is that you can make a real difference by bringing a shelter pet into your home. The cost is usually minimal, typically ranging from $15 to $75. The fees may already include shots and/or neutering. Sometimes the first veterinarian visit is also included in the fee, and if the pet hasn't already been spayed or neutered, you will be strongly advised or required to do so.

Shelters offer a wide selection of animals to choose from, so you will have the opportunity to see many different ages, sizes and colors under one roof. For the most part, the pets that you will see, will have all been screened for proper temperament and good health. But don't be alarmed if the shelter staff asks you some probing questions about your lifestyle and background, because they want to make sure that you can offer the right kind of home environment for the animal. The staff will be in a good position to help match you with a pet that's appropriate for your lifestyle.

You can easily find a shelter near you. Simply enter your zip code and e-mail address in the form. Remember, you'll be helping out a new friend!

|| Matchmaking || Home ||