Dog-Tober is here!

Dog-Tober

National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Photo courtesy of Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control

"The number of dogs and cats euthanized every year has gone down, but annually there are about 2.7 million healthy shelter dogs and cats who aren't adopted." -www.humanesociety.org Photo courtesy of Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control

1. When considering a new addition to your family, consider adopting from your local animal shelter or pet rescues. Often, rescue pets are more affordable and come with the "whole package," like vaccines, training, socialization, free vet check ups, trial bags of food, microchips and much more! Check with your local rescue or shelter to see what their adoptions offer!

2. We all have a favorite breed, and that's okay! Today, there are many specialized rescues for various breeds. Try resources like Petfinder and The Shelter Pet Project to search for exactly what you want! You can enter gender, breed, age, and much more.

3. Shelter pets are screened and tested for good health. Many shelters and rescues provide a spay/neuter program and vaccinations, if the pet is the appropriate age. Check with your rescue to see what is included in your adoption.

4. Shelter pets are also screened for good behavior. Many dogs are tested for aggression, both with food and toys.

5. Some shelters or rescues will help with training! Pet parenting classes are becoming more popular, and some shelters even offer free classes for new pet parents.

6. Consider adopting older pets. Older pets have "been around the block" and know a thing or two about pleasing their pet parents. Usually, less training is required with pets that have outgrown their juvenile years.

7. We're all pet lovers, and if we all wish we could adopt them all! If you aren't able to open your home permanently to a new fur-child consider fostering or volunteering for a local rescue or shelter. Check with your local rescues and shelters for specific volunteer and foster home opportunities. You'll get the benefit of the cuddles and the heart-warming feeling of helping animals.


8. Consider donating to your favorite rescue or shelter. Donations don't always need to be monetary, either. If your pet has old supplies they don't use anymore, the shelter pets would love new toys and beds. There are also pet food pantries that accept food donations.

9. Pampered Pets in Fort Wayne is celebrating Adopt a National Dog month by beginning a new sponsorship with Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control. We will be offering free spa baths for any dog adopted from ACC, within the first 10 days of adoption! We are also sponsoring one very special dog each month and offering special offers and gifts to be redeemed at the Pampered Pets Fort Wayne location! Stop in to ACC today, or check our Facebook, to meet the lucky dog and see the exclusive offer!