April 30th is Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. Adopting a shelter pet can be a very positive and rewarding experience. It will give you the opportunity to give an animal that could have had a bad start to life a new lease on life with you. Adopting mixed breeds cost less and are generally more healthy and, of course; you will have saved a life.
When adopting a shelter pet, it can be overwhelming. There can be a variety of animal breeds, temperaments, unknown history and ages found in shelters. Food for thought, pick an animal that personally meshes well with you and your lifestyle. Are you a high energy person? Are you laid back and relaxed? Do you have younger or older children? Remember a pet can live for a very long time, especially a cat. They are for the present and the future. If you plan on having kids, getting married, moving to another city or province, be prepared to make these changes with your new pet. Every year, thousands of pets are surrendered because family circumstances have changed. Plan ahead. These are somethings you should reflect on when choosing your forever shelter pet.
Before bringing home your shelter pet make sure your home is ready for arrival. Have the supplies you will need ready. Such as food, collar, leash, tags, toys, water dishes, etc. It would also be a good idea to gather any information the shelter can provide you and have a vet appointment set up a couple of days after you have them home for a health check. If your pet hasn’t been spayed/neutered or microchipped before adoption, discuss this at your vet appointment. It can ensure their safe return home if they wander from your sight.
On Adopt a Shelter Pet Day consider visiting your local shelter or rescue organizations and see what they have to offer you. If you are not quite ready to adopt, then this day would be a great day to volunteer or give a donation. If you already own a shelter pet then take this day to celebrate them. Some rescues to look into if you have been thinking about adopting is a list below:
- SPCA
- Humane Services
- Beagle Paws
- Furever Young
- Rescue NL
- Heavenly Creatures
- Feral Felines
Contacting any of these rescues and they will be happy to help you find the right animal to fit you and your lifestyle.
Written by: Torbay Road Animal Hospital
