Consider attending Adopt a Shelter Dog Month in October, location and date unspecified | Photo courtesy of Best Friends Animal Society, St. George News
NS. GEORGE —Although October is drawing to a close, it’s not too late to attend Adopt a Shelter Dog Month. But before you take the plunge and adopt a dog, it’s important to consider what type of pooch is best for you.
In this August 2021 file photo, Cathy Powell Maggie Rose is training at Loving Angel Service Dogs, St. George, Utah | Photo from Adele Park, St. George News
According to a press release from the Best Friends Animal Society, the demand for pet adoption remains high.
Despite the doggy frenzy pandemic, 32% of the 347,000 shelter animals (dogs and cats) killed last year were dogs, according to Best Friends 2020 data from animal shelters in the United States. Over the summer, the number of shelters increased, resulting in hundreds of thousands of dogs across the country in need of new homes.
There are a number of benefits to adopting a dog, Erin Katribe, veterinarian and medical director at Best Friends, said in the press release.
“Studies have shown that pets can reduce stress and reduce anxiety. This is especially helpful in difficult times, such as we have seen in the past year and a half, ”said Katribe. “Dogs are also great friends for walking or hiking. It’s like having a personal trainer with four legs. ”
Another benefit of introducing it is how inexpensive it can be, the press release says.
“Most shelter dogs are repaired, vaccinated, chipped and can go home for a small fee,” said Katribe.
Since most dogs have already been at home in animal shelters, many of them are already house trained.
“For adult dogs, it usually only takes a short refresher course to become house-trained in a new environment,” said Katribe.
Of course, it is also worth saving the life of a dog in need.
“These dogs are so eager to be someone’s best friend again,” said Katribe. “They will repay your kindness with a life of unconditional love and companionship.”
French bulldog puppy, Russia, April 30, 2019 | Photo by Maria Tsveshko via Wikimedia, St. George News
To help you in your search, Best Friends offers the following tips:
Lifestyle is huge.
Do you like to watch binge-watching TV and prefer quiet nights at home on the couch? An older dog or a dog who prefers to be a single pet could be your ideal partner.
More sporty types should consider an energetic dog that can keep up with any adventure. High energy doesn’t always mean young either. Many older dogs are still bursting with energy.
Even if you don’t have a big home, dogs of all sizes can thrive in an apartment or condo (as long as they get the necessary amount of exercise). Large breed dogs are most at risk in animal shelters, so keep your eyes peeled for a big boy or girl who might otherwise be overlooked.
Ask the shelter team to play matchmaker.
Tell the staff and volunteers at the shelter everything about who you live with or share a room with, including any pets (count rodents and reptiles). You should also write down any pets that you encounter regularly (such as the small dogs in your apartment complex or a friend’s dog who likes to visit).
How much affection do you need
Some people love getting dog kisses, some not so much. Just like when you sleep – would you like to cuddle up with your dog in bed or would you prefer to have his own bed somewhere else? How much (or how little) affection you want from your pet is an important factor in deciding which one to adopt.
Bonnie Pendleton and Steve Flannery with Rescue Dog, Sunny, St. George, Utah, May 2021 | Photo from Adele Park, St. George News
Get the children involved.
It is important that you take your children with you to meet any potential pets so you can watch them interact. Ask the shelter staff if any of the dogs they care for have lived with children.
Stay open.
Instead of being fixated on looks, size, or race, focus on traits, such as: B. Who best suits your lifestyle and who you connect with.
Know your limits.
If you’re unwilling to potty a puppy or if you can’t handle a strong, young dog, don’t feel guilty. It is important to know what you can and cannot do as a dog owner.
Ask about medical history.
Some dogs, especially seniors, may have current or ongoing health problems that require medication or increased veterinary care. Hence, it can cost more money and take more time to care for the dog. It’s important to include this in your decision-making process.
Maintain first.
Most animal shelters allow prospective adoptive parents to take a dog home for several weeks or more. This is the best way to really get to know the dog and can give you the peace of mind to decide whether to make the situation permanent.
Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2021, all rights reserved.
