This week, on October 1^st, we celebrate American Humane’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. It is a month long campaign to draw attention to the millions of dogs in local shelters across the country.

At the same time, the Ad Council, Maddie’s Fund and the Humane Society of the United States has also launched its FIRST national Public Service Campaign to encourage pet adoptions from shelters, aptly titled, The Shelter Pet Project. The aim of the ad campaign is to change the public’s perception of shelter pets and encourage Americans to save a pet’s life by adopting one.

It is estimated that there are over 75 million dogs in American households. [1] This number certainly states America’s love for their canine companions, but the dark side to that number is the over three million healthy and treatable pups that are euthanized in shelters due to lack of adoption.

The numbers for 2009 should be astonishing, as healthy pure-breds are now being added to the list of abandoned dogs, becoming shelter pets as mortgage foreclosures push families into new lifestyles that either place them in a “no pet” living environment or they can no longer afford their pets.

If you are considering adding a dog to your family circle, there are some tips that you should consider that will help you make the perfect dog selection, insuring that you and the new canine family member will enjoy a life-time together.

• Research the various dog breeds you are interested in. Know that you may or may not find a pure-breed at the shelter, but you may find a beautiful mixed breed with just the right qualities.
• Make a list of the breeds you will and will not consider.
• When viewing the shelter dogs, be aware that they are under stress. They are aware of their environment and in many cases, they have just been dropped off or abandoned and aren’t sure what is happening.
• The shelter technician is there to help you as you view he dogs. It is their duty to insure that you receive the background on the dog and that you are able to view and/or interact safely with the dog.
• If you consider adopting a puppy, it is important to note that puppies can be more expensive to begin with, as their immune systems are more susceptible to communicable diseases. Their temperament is somewhat harder to discern at such a young age. Adult dogs on the other hand are what they are. You will know in a more distinct way what you are getting in temperament.
• If you have children at home, you will need to make the decision whether or not to include them in the selection process. Some dogs will enjoy children, while others will not. If the child/children do go with you to the shelter, make sure your child understands that getting the right dog may not happen that day and could require another trip.
• Evaluation of the time that will be needed to care for the dog is very important. To adopt a dog and leave it crated inside an apartment or home for twelve hours a day does not make you a good candidate for dog adoption. There are other pets that require less attention and would be a much better match for you.
• Evaluation of the living space you have for a dog is also important. You would not want to adopt a large dog, offering it a small apartment, unless you are committed to dog walks and doggie exercise at a dog park or large field for your new companion.
• Consider your commitment to be one for the life of your dog. It will include food, regular veterinary visits, medications to prevent heart worms and fleas and perhaps arthritis, and maybe obedience training.
• Understand that dogs become very attached to their “people” and will look to you for not only their day-to-day needs, but also their end-of-life needs. You most likely will out live your doggie best friend….so it is important to address the psychological necessity of being a “friend” to the end.

Going to the animal shelter to pick out your dog is an emotional experience. Do your homework, talk to shelter professionals and know what you and your family really want, thus insuring the adoption of your dog will offer the dog, you and each family member a life of joy and love!

Visit: www.americanhumane.org or www.TheShelterPetProject.org for further information.

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[1] Maddie’s Fund Press Release, 9/24/09

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