At Greg Murray Photography, every day is Adopt a Shelter Pet Day - but October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! Creating awareness around adopting from local shelters has never been more prevalent as animal shelters throughout the United States are overwhelmed with the number of rescues coming in daily, including the shelters in our own backyard of Cleveland.
Leo, adopted by Greg and his wife Kristen from the Cleveland APL in 2012
To help generate awareness around adopting from local shelters, here are important considerations and the benefits of rescuing a furry best friend.
Things to Consider When Adopting a Dog
Complete a lifestyle check: It’s important that you have enough time for your dog and find one that fits your lifestyle. Are you active? Do you live in a smaller home or apartment? Are you away from home a lot? It’s crucial to consider the pet's energy level (& your energy level), size once fully grown, noise level, and how the pet gets along with other pets and children.
Preparing For Your Pet: If you’ve found your new furry friend, it’s time to set up your home and prepare for their arrival. From a collar and lease to water bowls, food, beds, and a crate - there is plenty to plan for.
Cost: Bringing a pet into your home can be an expensive proposition. You want to be prepared for all sorts of costs, especially since animals really do become part of the family. Costs to Consider When Adopting a Pet from US News & World Report.
Find a Local Veterinarian: Scheduling and taking your new pet to the veterinarian is an important step, to establishing care along with getting any shots or uncovering any other potential health issues/concerns. Ask friends, family, or coworkers in the area for their veterinarian recommendations if you’re unsure where to start!
Get Ready to Take it Slow: It’s really important to take things slow with your shelter pet, from introducing them to friends/family and other household pets. In addition to taking it slow with introductions, it’s important to ease into new situations, as your pet most likely will change as they get more comfortable around you and in their home. All of these situations should be planned for and researched to ensure they’re done correctly!
Plan for Training: Shelter pets can come with a handful of qualities, from resource guarding to not knowing basic commands. Planning and signing up for training will not only help your pet but will also help you manage them in certain situations.
Benefits of Adopting A Rescue Dog
You’re Saving Multiple Pets Lives. In addition to giving your furry friend a second chance, you’re also allowing another pet in need the space at that shelter and a second chance at life!
A New Activity Partner. Your new four-legged friend is a perfect excuse to get our for a walk, hike, or run.
Free Therapy. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (aka stress) and lower your blood pressure - while increasing your happiness! Plus, you’ll always have someone who listens to you without judgment.
Saying No to Cruel Breeders. Animals, especially puppies purchased at pet stores, are often the result of cruel breeding facilities. When you adopt, you’re helping your community instead of filling a breeder's pocket.
Unconditional Love and a New BFF. Shelter animals are ready to give love and are often so thankful for a comfy bed and consistent home with treats! In addition to unconditional love, you’ll also have a lifelong best friend and family member.
Find a Shelter and Rescue Organization Near You
Looking for a shelter or foster based rescue organization near you? PetFinder has a great search feature here
It Won’t Be What You Expect
No matter how much you prepare for a new furry friend, you won't be able to predict all the expenses or time you will spend on your adopted dog or other pet. Most people find it's more than worth it for all the wonderful benefits of having a dog in your life.
You can never really know what it will be like, but you can prepare for adoption by being aware of the costs and various time commitments so they won't be a a negative surprise.
