Tips For Adopting An Animal

Potential pet parents should consider not only what type of animal is most appropriate but also what shelter. To help, here's advice on what to look for.

"The first indication of a good animal shelter is mandatory sterilization of all animals. No responsible shelter will adopt animals out without making provisions for their sterilization," said Edwin Sayres, president and CEO of the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). "This includes purebred animals. The revolving door syndrome of adopting out one animal only to get six of its offspring back at a later date is patently self-defeating."

Additionally, a good animal shelter will:

• Work diligently to place as many animals as possible into responsible, loving homes

• Distribute educational materials on proper pet care, animal behavior issues and overpopulation to the general public

• Be well maintained and have a cheerful, bright appearance

• Have convenient hours

• Have a comprehensive health care program that includes treating sick animals and preventive inoculations and medication

• Ensure its animals are clean, dry and comfortable

• Aim to reduce stress for the animals through grooming, exercise, behavioral enrichment, separation of species and tender loving care

• Have a friendly, inviting staff, willing and able to assist the public.

Many people misunderstand some things they see at animal shelters. Common complaints that can be easily misinterpreted are:

No water: Many dogs and cats tip over their water bowls regularly. Therefore, some animals are watered on a regular basis and not provided with water round the clock.

No food: Animals fed on a free feed basis often overeat and get diarrhea. Shelter animals are generally fed twice a day, so you won't necessarily see food in their cages.

Euthanasia: It's not possible to house all animals in need. Most shelters have guidelines on euthanasia decision-making.

Dirty cages: No matter how often or how well a shelter cleans, there will be some dirty cages at any one time.

Sick animals: However comprehensive the health program, there'll always be sick animals. Most animals arrive unvaccinated and many harbor contagious diseases. A good shelter isolates and treats sick animals as soon as possible.

Adoption refusals: Good shelters try to match the right pet with the right owner and give the new owners realistic expectations about their new companion.