Many places call themselves a shelter. Get to know the facility before getting a pet from it. Here are are a few recommendations:
• Visit the shelter during normal visiting hours.
• Staff and volunteers should present themselves professionally.
• The shelter should be clean, free of clutter and have minimal pet waste odors.
• Pets should be clean, free of mats in their fur and be healthy.
• Pets should be spayed or neutered to reduce the number of unwanted puppies or kittens.
• Dogs for adoption should be leash trained and be able to obey simple commands.
• Cats for adoption should want to be near people.
Adopting a shelter pet can be a wonderful experience. Finding a good shelter will have positive repercussions for both you and your new pet.
Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren, MS, DVM, is founder, president
