Adopting a new pet is a huge responsibility rife with decision-making. From deciding why you want to adopt, to the type of pet, to the best time, the adoption process involves more choices than you may care to admit. But, from social media to other online resources, choosing where to adopt and finding your forever friend is easier than ever. Still, you’ll need to be cautious about where you choose to adopt. Here are our top contenders:

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter

When you are looking to adopt a pet, your local humane society or other animal shelter is the ultimate first stop. Whether you’re looking for a dog, cat, bunny, or bird, animal shelters often have a variety of adoptable species. You may be tempted to assume that all the animals are in the shelter for an undesirable reason (i.e., they have been relinquished for behavioral or medical problems), but nothing could be further from the truth. Unfortunately, many pets end up in shelters simply because of family relocation, pet allergies, pet ownership expenses, or escape. If a shelter animal has a known history or has been at the facility for a long time, the staff will likely have a good idea of that pet’s temperament and the type of home that would be a good fit. A good animal shelter will want to ensure their pets are adopted to loving, suitable homes. Remember, their goal is for pets to find forever homes, too. 

Rescue organizations for specific pet adoptions

If you’re looking to adopt a specific breed or type of pet, consider researching different rescue organizations, both local and national, depending on how far you’re willing to travel. From pitbulls to Irish wolfhounds to Persian cats, a breed rescue organization exists for nearly every type of dog and cat. Adopting from a breed rescue is a wonderful way to find the pet of your dreams while helping an animal in need. A breed rescue may also be a great place to look if you are picky about what you want in a pet, but finding the perfect pet will likely take time, so be patient. 

Pet stores for pets

Pet shops used to be the quintessential place to choose the perfect pet. However, with the onset of puppy mills and concern about animal welfare issues, purchasing pets from these stores has fallen out of favor. Now, many pet stores are partnering with local animal shelters to offer adoptable animals, and encourage more humane practices. Some locations have pets available every day, while others hold special adoption events—contact your local pet shop to find out more. 

When in doubt, search for pets online

Chances are, a quick internet search of adoptable pets in your area will present numerous options. From local shelters, to breed rescue organizations, to sites like petfinder.com, your ideal pet may be only a click away. If your busy schedule or transportation problems keep you from heading out to search for an adoptable pet in person, sit back and peruse the many online resources available at your fingertips. Most adoption websites include pet profile pictures and descriptions to help streamline the process. 

Word of mouth about pets

Despite the myriad ways to search for an adoptable pet, word of mouth is a mainstay in successful animal adoptions. Chances are, you’ve met someone who has a family member or friend who needs to rehome their pet. While this seems an easy way to find a furry friend to bring home, be careful not to get caught up in the possible emotional aspect. If you hear of an adoptable pet through someone you know, gather as much information as you can and assess whether this pet would be a good fit for you and your family. Never feel pressured to adopt an animal you aren’t prepared to care for.  

If you would still like more information about finding an adoptable pet, contact our office and we will try to point you in the right direction. Once you’ve addressed the what, when, why, and where, and have adopted a new pet, your next step is to schedule an appointment with Town & Country Animal Hospital for their initial visit. We’ll discuss nutrition, wellness care, preventive medications, and acclimating your pet to your home, which takes time and patience. This transitional adoption period is a vulnerable time for both pet and owner, so allow each of you grace and space as you navigate this new life together. We can’t wait to meet your new furry friend!