Today is National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day. You may have heard Wicker and Wilde talk about it on the air this morning. They both adopted their puppy dogs from shelters, as you may have! Observing National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day raises awareness about the thousands of pets in shelters across the country waiting for their forever homes. If you're ready to take that step, many shelters are offering special discounts and promotions to encourage adoptions today.
Here are some things to consider when adopting - and we thank our friends in King William County, Virginia for this great advice:
- You have to have patience. It takes at least three days for a pet to come out of their shell after being in a shelter.
- You have to invest time. Be sure you have the time to care for your new pet every day, including feeding, exercise, play, and grooming. Remember, pets live for many years, so adoption is a long-term commitment. Dogs typically need daily walks, playtime, and regular training sessions. When she thought about it, Rebecca Wilde has taken her dog Phillip on 1-3 walks a day for 16 years! That is commitment but well worth it.
Cats require social interaction, litter box cleaning, and playtime.
- Your Home and Living Situation. Consider whether your living space is suitable for a pet. If you already have pets, consider whether the new animal will get along with them. Some pets may need time to adjust to one another. For dogs, have a fenced in yard.
- Pet’s Age and Energy Level. Different animals have different needs depending on their age, breed, and energy level. It’s important to choose a pet whose temperament and activity level match your lifestyle.
- Financial Responsibility. Owning a pet comes with a financial commitment. In addition to the adoption fees, you’ll need to consider high-quality food, toys, bedding, grooming tools, and other pet supplies. Don’t forget regular vet appointments.
- Training and Behavior. Adopting a pet often involves some level of training, especially if the animal is a young puppy or kitten, or if they’ve had a challenging past. Be prepared to invest time dealing with behaviors and if they have issues don’t give up…get them help instead. And remember to use a trainer or behavior specialist that specializes in positive reinforcement only.
- The Impact the Adoption may have on Your Life. Before even heading to the shelter, take a minute to think about how having a new companion animal will change your life. Are you truly ready for the responsibility? Owning a pet is not just about receiving love and companionship—it’s about giving love, time, and effort. The bond you form with your pet can be incredibly fulfilling, but it’s important to understand that pets need care, attention, and resources.
For the full list of great advice, check out King William County's website.
And if you do choose to adopt, congratulations and enjoy the new company and your new life!