Adopting an Animal from the Shelter
If you want to feel good about yourself and literally - possibly save the life of a poor dog or cat that has landed in the pound often for reasons beyond their control. I have adopted all of my dogs from either adoption clinics run by rescue groups or directly from my local shelter. Recently, animal shelters have come up with programs to make it easier and more enticing for people to adopt.
At your local shelter you will find mixed breeds as well as pure bred dogs to choose from. Adult animals as well as young puppies and kittens. Another benefit that you will have over buying from a breeder or pet store, is the evaluation done by the shelter. They do not want to match you up with a dog that you will be returning in 24 hours because it was not meeting your requirements or expectations. They evaluated the dog on their intelligence, training, compatibility and temperament. You will know if they will be good with children, other animals, if they know basic commands, if they walk well on a leash, etc. This evaluation is posted on their cages to make narrowing down your selection much easier.
Another bonus to adopting your dog or cat from the shelter is the money saved. Your pet will be micro chipped, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered. My local shelter also works with participating vets to give you your pets initial physical exam for free. This helps promote the veterinarian's office as well as saving you the cost and possibly match you up with a vet you will patronize in the future.
