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The Home Visit: An Essential Part Of Adopting A Dog

“Hello! I am here for your home visit!” If you’re adopting a dog, you might be greeted by these words from a stranger at your door. Not to worry, he’s not here to sell you anything – this is a home visit and it’s an increasingly common part of pet rescues adoption procedure.

In fact, I may end up on your door step because I do home visits for a local dog rescue. This is my favorite part of volunteering. I love to meet people and feel so special to be part of the final step in a dog’s journey to finding a new home.

Related: Adventures In Fostering: Meet Francis

I understand that people may be nervous about a home visit. Relax – I’m not there to judge your home décor color scheme (but since we’re on the subject… do you think that flashing beer sign goes with the couch?) or make sure you’ve dusted everything with a flat surface. This home visit is to ensure that this adoption is going to be successful. The best way to do this is by having an in-house conversation, as well as a pair of trained eyes that will help you eliminate any potential problems around your house and yard.

Related: A Day In The Life Of Dog Foster Dad

I’ll want to know if you have a vet you’re using. It’s best to have a vet set up before you bring your dog home, rather than rushing to find one in case of an emergency.

Have you ever taken an obedience classes before, and what activities you are looking to do with your dog? What’s your daily routine and how you will include the dog in this? This includes where the dog will eat, sleep, be trained and exercised.

I’m not here to tell you how to do it; I am here to get you to think about it. Some families have a bed already in place and bowls out for meal time. Others are looking for guidance, and we will discuss options and possibilities that will work for you.

What am I looking for?

In general, I am looking to see that the home is safe for the dog. If you have a fenced yard, I will inspect it with fresh eyes for any possible escape routes. Maybe your gate is sagging, or you have a stack of firewood piled against the back corner, which a dog might use as a ladder and escape the yard. These are easy fixes, and it’s my job to point them out to you.

I also look for potential hazards to your new dog. Many dogs just love to eat from the cat litter box, or get confused by kid’s toys vs. dog’s toys. I check to see that household cleaning supplies are stored away safety – products such as laundry soap can be harmful to dogs if ingested.

Most of the homes I visit, the humans have to work outside of the home. Hey, someone has to bring home the bacon for chew toys and food. I understand! I am also looking to see where the dog will be spending time when his owners are out of the house.

When a shelter takes on the commitment of a dog, it’s a huge responsibility. Finding it the right fit for a forever home is part of that responsibility. The home visit is intended to support the adoptive family and to ensure that this will be the right match. Be open with me; ask me whatever questions you want. I’m here to make sure that everyone is happy, and that you and your new dog live happily ever after!

Kevin Roberts lives for adventure. Together with his pack of rescue dogs and his husband, he spends as much time outdoors as possible. Kevin lives by the motto: "Get outside and play with your dogs!

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6 Mistakes to Avoid When Adopting a Dog

You’ve decided to adopt a dog – that’s awesome! Before you rescue a pooch, watch out of these common adoption mistakes. When you adopt a new dog, you could very well be saving a life – literally. No matter where he comes from, bringing home a new dog can be incredibly exciting but there are also some challenges you are likely to encounter. To make sure that you and your adopted friend adjust to your new lives together, avoid these top six mistakes. Rushing into it. When you visit a dog shelter it is easy to be overwhelmed by all of those sad, puppy dog eyes staring at you through the bars. At that moment, it is hard to believe that bringing home one of those needy dogs could be anything less than amazing, but it is a big decision that you should consider carefully before making. Think about whether you are really ready to get a dog and if you have the space, the time, and the money to devote to caring for him for the rest of his life. Related: The Home Visit: An Essential Part Of Adopting A Dog Going only for puppies. There is nothing more adorable than a puppy, that is for sure. But bringing home a new puppy is a major commitment of time and effort – you’ll need to housebreak him, socialize him, and train him, plus you’ll have to deal with puppy problems like chewing and having accidents in the house. Think about bringing home an adult or senior dog who may already be housebroken and trained and who is just as deserving of a home.Not getting to know the dog. The shelter environment can be very scary and stressful for dogs, so the way a dog acts at the shelter may not be the way he acts at home. Do not assume that just because a dog is calm and quiet at the shelter that he will stay that way once he settles in at home. Considering fostering the dog for a week to get to know his personality before you commit, just to make sure that it is the right situation for all involved. Related: Shelter Dogs Strike a Vogue Pose For Their Adoption Profiles Assuming mixed breeds are the only option. Animal shelters around the country are overrun with mixed breed dogs, especially of the Pitbull type. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t find a purebred at a shelter. Dogs are abandoned for all kinds of reasons and if you have a particular breed in mind, give the shelter your name and contact information so they can get ahold of you if one comes in.Thinking it’s going to be easy. Bringing home a new dog is always going to be a challenge. Whether you are adopting a puppy or an older dog, it will take time for your new friend to adjust to his new home life and the two of you may go through some growing pains when it comes to your relationship. Be sure to give your new friend plenty of love but respect his need for space and quiet time if he is having a hard time making the adjustment.Not going to the vet. In many cases, dogs are turned over to the shelter with minimal background information – when you adopt a dog you won’t always know his history. Even though the shelter will give the dog an exam before adopting him out, you should still have him seen by your own veterinarian shortly after bringing him home and then you need to keep up with regular vet visits. There is nothing more noble than giving an abandoned dog a new home, but adopting a dog is not always easy. There are certain challenges involved and you are going to make mistakes. But learning about the most common mistakes adopters make can help you to avoid them.

Are Mutts Healthier than Purebreds? New Study Says NO!

Are mixed-breed dogs really healthier? A new study of more than 27,000 companion dogs discovered that mutts are just as likely to experience health issues as their purebred counterparts. It turns out that a smaller gene pool doesn’t make purebred dogs more prone to common doggy ailments when compared to mixed-breed dogs. The study led by researchers from the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that while certain purebreds are prone to specific health problems, both purebreds and mixed-breeds are equal in terms of the overall frequency of health condition diagnoses. “There are several well-known diseases that frequently occur in specific dog breeds,” explained Dr. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer of the Dog Aging Project and a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. “This has helped perpetuate the misconception that all purebred dogs are more prone to diseases, but that is not the case.”The study, which surveyed a total of 27,541 dogs, identified 25 breeds that made up around 60% of the purebred dog population within the Dog Aging Project. Those breeds include Labrador retriever, golden retriever, German shepherd, poodle, Australian shepherd, dachshund, border collie, Chihuahua, beagle, Pembroke Welsh corgi, boxer, shih tzu, miniature schnauzer, pug, Havanese, cavalier King Charles spaniel, Great Dane, greyhound, Boston terrier, Siberian husky, Shetland sheepdog, English springer spaniel, Australian cattle dog, and Doberman pinscher. Scientists found that within these 25 breeds, 53 medical conditions make up the top owner-reported medical issues. “The medical conditions reported by owners varied considerably,” said Creevy. “However, some conditions appeared frequently in the top 10 reported health conditions by breed.”The 10 health conditions most reported for purebred dogs include dental calculus (hardened plaque), dog bites, extracted teeth, giardia, osteoarthritis, seasonal allergies, ear infections, heart murmur, fractured teeth, and cataracts. For mixed-breed dogs, the top 10 conditions were nearly the same, with cataracts and heart murmur being replaced with torn/broken toenails and chocolate toxicity. Some maladies, such as dental calculus and osteoarthritis appeared roughly the same in purebreds and mutts. However, some conditions were more commonly seen in one than the other. For example, purebreds had more extracted teeth, and dog bites, while mixed-breeds had more ear infections. Out of 53 owner-reported medical conditions, 26 didn’t differ significantly between purebred and mixed-breed dogs. What’s more interesting is that 22.3% of owners of purebred dogs reported their canine companions having no health issues, compared to 20.7% of mixed-breed owners, meaning that purebred dogs were healthier than mixed-breed dogs. The most important finding of this study is that dog breed is just one aspect of pet health to think about when creating a dog care plan, or researching what kind of dog to adopt. “People should consider many factors when choosing a dog, including environment, lifestyle, social interactions and physical activity that will be available to the dog,” said Creevy. “Planning for both preventative care and medical care as the dog ages is also prudent. Dog owners should also talk with their primary care veterinarians about the kinds of medical problems to which their new dog might be particularly prone based on breed, size, sex, etc.” Researchers think that the main reason people believe mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebreds is because certain breeds of dogs suffer from well-known health problems. For example, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers are prone to hip dysplasia, poodles are more likely to get glaucoma, and Great Danes are prone to bloat. The fact that some purebreds are susceptible to breed-specific diseases, while mixed-breeds aren’t has contributed to the myth that purebred dogs are more likely to get sick than their mixed-breed counterparts. We now know that’s not the case thanks to this new study. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is It Normal for a Dog to Lose Appetite in Summer?

As the temperatures rise and the hot summer months roll in, some dog owners observe a change in their pet’s eating habits. If you notice that your pet is eating less than usual when it gets really hot outside, it’s only natural if you’re concerned about their health. However, understanding the real reasons behind this “seasonal change” can help you worry less and care for your pet as best you can. Is It Normal for a Dog to Lose Appetite in Summer?The reason why some dogs can lose appetite in the summer is simple: heat. Just like us humans, dogs too can feel lethargic, lazy, and less energetic when the heat is stifling. And, naturally, as their energy levels are decreased, they have a reduced need for caloric intake to replenish it. This is one of their “old” inherent traits from the wild: animals will adjust their food intake based on their energy requirements and the available resources. So, as your pooch doesn’t spend energy, preferring to snooze, they will not need to consume so much food to replenish it.Still, heat can cause some physiological changes that could affect your pet’s appetite. Hot summer months bring high temperatures that will slow the digestive process of dogs, making them feel full for longer. What is more, during this time dogs will drink a lot more water (as we humans do), which can also make them feel full and not hungry. Remember that hydration is important in the summer, as it helps regulate body temperature. Always make sure that your pet has access to fresh water, even when you are not home. This “self-replenishing” dog water dispenser is a great thing to have, as it will make sure that your pet always has access to clean, fresh water even when you’re away at work.

How Can I Reduce My Dog's Environmental Pawprint?

In today’s day and age, with the climate and environment at great risk, we want to do anything we can to minimize our own carbon footprint and the damage we do to Mother Nature. Of course, our pets also have an environmental impact – and eco-conscious pet parents are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce their pet’s carbon footprint (or pawprint if we’re being precise). Luckily, there are a lot of small but important steps that you can take in order to make your pet’s lifestyle and care much more eco-friendly without compromising the quality of life they are used to. Here's where to start if you want to become a more eco-friendly, sustainable dog owner!5 Ways You Can Reduce Your Dog's Environmental PawprintCaring for your pet can be challenging, and that’s no secret. However, the things that make it easier are not often very good for the environment, and can make your pet’s environmental pawprint significant. Luckily, it does not take too much of a change to turn that completely around and start improving that environmental impact, day by day. What follows are just a few of the basic steps you can take as a caring and responsible owner.#1 Be Responsible About Your Pet’s Waste Disposal:

Can Cats Suffer From Depression?

Does your otherwise playful and friendly cat no longer seem interested in their favorite toys? It’s natural to worry when you notice a change in your best friend’s behavior. Changes in your cat’s mood or activity level may signal that something more serious is happening. We often watch for the warning signs of physical illness, but what about depression? Did you know that your cat can also struggle with their mental health? This article will examine the very real risk of feline depression, including the warning signs, what to do if you suspect your cat may be struggling, and prevention tips. Discover helpful strategies to boost your cat’s mental health and help them get back to their usual playful, purring self today. Can Cats Get Depressed? Cats are known for their independence and aloof attitude, but this doesn’t mean they don’t feel things – sometimes very intensely. Just like people, your cat can suffer from mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. Not only does depression impact them mentally and emotionally, but it can also affect their physical health and well-being. This is why it’s important for us to acknowledge the risks, identify signs that something is “off,” and seek help for our cats when needed. How Can I Tell if My Cat is Depressed? We all know cats are masters of hiding when they aren’t feeling well. This is why physical illnesses and sicknesses can be so difficult to spot. The same is true for cats who are facing challenges with their mental health. The signs are often subtle, meaning we, as cat parents, must be hyper-vigilant. Some of the more common warning signs to watch out for include: Increased vocalization (constant meowing, yowling)Loss of appetite Unexplained weight loss Sleeping more than usual or at times they’d typically be active Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyedDecreased grooming or attention to hygieneDull, matted coat No longer seeking attention or interaction Out-of-character aggression or irritability Hiding or isolating themselves Many of these signs can also be associated with physical illnesses or diseases. If you notice any of these changes, make an appointment with your veterinarian. They will run tests to rule out any physical health problems before discussing recommendations to help manage your cat’s mental health.

Study Shows These Dog Breeds Most Likely To Have an Extra Row of Teeth

Is your pooch more likely to sport a second row of teeth? The so-called “Shark Teeth” is a little-known dental condition that can affect up to 7% of doggos around the world. The “disorder” is officially known as persistent deciduous teeth (PDT) and it means that instead of falling out as you’d expect, baby teeth remain in the gums when adult teeth come through. The condition is not particularly dangerous, but even so, it can be odd or cause slight discomfort to a dog. Recent studies revealed that the dog breeds most likely to suffer from PDT are the Toy Poodle, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Maltese, and the Chihuahua. What exactly is PTD? And what does it cause? The disorder causes  malocclusion, or - in simpler terms - a misaligned bite. In the long run, this can cause your pet’s mouth to bleed, and also increase the risk of periodontal disease, which is considered a serious gum infection.The research team at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute in Leicestershire, led by Corrin Wallis, released their new study that focuses on PDT specifically. “Dogs use their teeth for a multitude of tasks and, as such, it is vital for their health and wellbeing that their oral health is maintained,” Wallis and colleagues  say.  “Persistent deciduous teeth (PDT), those that fail to fall out at the appropriate time, are associated with malocclusion (misaligned bite), soft tissue trauma and increased risk of periodontal disease.”In the course of their extensive study, which has been published in the journal  Research in Veterinary Science, the team from Leicestershire examined medical records from up to 2.8 million dogs in the US, in just a span of five years, from January 2010 to December 2014. The study itself was a major undertaking. Ultimately, it was revealed that the prevalence of PDT was 7%. When it comes to individual breeds, it was revealed that the highest prevalence is amongst the Yorkshire Terriers with 25.1%, followed by the Maltese and the Poodle, both with 14.8%.On the lower end of that spectrum, the lowest prevalence was with the Greyhound, with 0.1%, followed by the Rhodesian Ridgeback with 0.2%. Amongst those breeds with lower percentages were also the English Bulldog, the Boxer, and the Great Dane, with 0.4%. All of this reveals that the smaller the breed, the higher the percentage. The team is not certain why smaller breeds have a higher percentage, but it could be linked to their genetics. The team said that it was crucial for owners of smaller breeds to have a thorough oral examination at around six months of age. This can help them identify and remove PDT in its early stages. “Once identified, PDT can be removed and if this is carried out by six months of age, the chances of problems associated with PDT, such as the development of periodontal disease or malocclusion, can likely be greatly reduced,” they said. 

Dog Ran A Mile to Her Doggy Daycare Center for Help After A Car Crash

A frightened dog ran a mile through heavy traffic to its doggy daycare to get help after she and her owner were in a car crash. Melisa Fickel, the dog’s owner, said that Aries, a three-year-old pit bull mix has always been a smart pooch. The pup, who was adopted in 2020, learns tricks quickly and loves to play in the park. Aries recently got a chance to show exactly how smart she is. The pooch and her owner were heeded to a local park in Detroit, Michigan when another car hit them from behind. Luckily, no one was injured, and both vehicles sustained only minor damages. However, the car accident spooked Aries, prompting her to jump out of the car’s window and run off into traffic. “I had the windows down because Aries likes to hang her head out,” said Fickel to a local TV station. “As soon as there was that smack, as soon as I felt and heard it, almost instantaneously, she was out the window.”Fearing the worst, Fickel was concerned about her pup’s safety. While dealing with the police and her insurance company, her mind was preoccupied with all the ways Aries could be in danger,“I can’t really think about it because so many things could have happened,” she added.What Fickel didn’t know is that Aries ran about a mile down the road, to the safest place she could be in - the Hounds Town Metro Detroid, the doggy daycare she frequently visits. Security footage recorded at the daycare showed Aries arriving at the center during the staff’s noon break when employees usually shut down the lobby to clean and catch up with other tasks. According to Dominic Pace, the daycare’s general manager, he and another employee were in the lobby when they saw something outside. “We noticed something dart past the front door,” said Pace. “It was like a black blur that just went past.”Thinking that they might have seen a dog, Pace went outside and found Aries standing by the sidewalk leading to the daycare’s front door. The pooch was panting and looked scared. Once inside the daycare, Aries has calmed down. Pace thought the dog looked familiar, so he called Travis Odgen, the daycare’s owner. At first, Odgen thought that it might be a stray dog, but as he got a better look, he instantly recognized Aries. “I was like, ‘Oh, that looks like Aries’ and then she walks closer and I’m like ‘That is Aries!’” he said. “I start to pet her and she gives me kisses, and she rolls over for me, recognizing me.”Although happy to see Aries, Odgen was confused to see the pooch without her owner. He immediately called Fickel to find out what was happening and to tell her that her dog was in the daycare.Everything made sense once Odgen learned about the fender bender and Aries’ escape. He assured the pup’s owner that she was safe and sound, minus a small cut on her paw. The staff promised to look after the pup until her owner sorted out everything and was able to pick her up.According to Pace, Aries is a very friendly and sweet dog who loves to flop on her back, expecting belly rubs from anyone nearby. “Dogs do have an intuition of knowing where they are and where they can be safe,” he said. “She knows that she’s safe here, that she has people here that will take care of her and dogs are pretty intuitive when it comes to that kind of thing.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Meet the Lancashire Heeler, the AKC's Newest Dog Breed

Say hello to the Lancashire heeler - the American Kennel Club’s 201st recognized dog breed and the newest member of the Herding group. Although small in stature, Lancashire heelers are active and sturdy dogs ready to compete with 200 other dog breeds at thousands of U.S dog shows.“A small, powerful herding dog that thrives on human interaction, this breed would make a great companion for active families that can provide a great deal of love and attention," said Gina DiNardo, American Kennel Club’s Executive Secretary.These small dogs have long bodies and short coats, often black and tan or liver and tan. The Lancashire heeler is a solidly built dog that is around one foot (30 centimeters) tall at the shoulders and weighs up to 17 pounds (7.7 kilograms). Traditionally, Lancashire heelers worked on farms as ratters and herders. Today, these feisty dogs participate in various canine sports and pursuits.“They are gritty little dogs, and they are very intelligent little dogs,” said Patricia Blankenship, who has bred Lancashire heelers for over a decade. “It’s an enjoyable little breed to be around,” she added. The official breed standard calls for Lancashire heelers to be courageous, happy, and affectionate to owner. The owners of these pooches say that happy heelers sometimes pull their lips back and smile. These small but powerful dogs won’t be content to lounge around all the time. They are highly energetic and just as skilled in performance sports as they are in conformation. Lancashire heelers can be found competing in agility, herding, obedience, rally, barn hunt, tracking, disk dog, dock diving, and therapy trials. “There are even a couple that have competed in Earth dog and weight-pull events,” said Sheryl Bradbury, President of the United States Lancashire Heeler Club (USLHC), according to AKC. “It’s a breed that will work hard all day and is happy to curl up at your side and watch the TV news at night.”“The breed is different but in a good way,” said Jeff Kestner, Club Chair of Judges’ Education Committee. “It’s not a run-of-the-mill dog. Its eyes and expression are like magnets. Being a herding breed it's extremely intelligent - it definitely needs a job to do.” According to Bradbury, the biggest misconception about the Lancashire heeler is that it’s adorable and sweet and the perfect size to sit on your lap. “I always caution the buyers to not let a puppy’s cuteness fool you. The minute it is off your lap it may be chewing your shoes or nipping at your heels. Conversely, it will be your loyal best friend.”This cute breed often develops a strong bond with one household member. They will like to interact with the entire family but will pick a favorite person. “It is great with children as long as the children understand how to respect the dog,” added Bradbury. The breed’s origin is packed with mystery but they were first bred in the United Kingdom. The Lancashire heeler is regarded as a “vulnerable native breed” and faces extinction in its homeland. The United Kingdom’s Kennel Club has added an average of just 121 Lancashire heelers to its registry in recent years.Being recognized as a dog breed doesn’t mean that the breed in question is newly created. To officially recognize the Lancashire heeler, the American Kennel Club required proof of a minimum of 20 litters bred with a three-generation pedigree. This guarantees that the breed is established and sustainable. According to Bradbury, there are around 400 Lancashire heelers nationwide but there’s no doubt we’ll see more of these dogs in the future. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dogs Smarter than Cats?

The rivalry between cats and dogs is an age-old thing. Many pet owners are divided in their affections, as some adore kitties, but others are strictly doggo lovers. And this rivalry poses an intriguing question – could there be a difference between cats and dogs? While both are cuddly and loveable, they are inevitably different. So, could it be possible that  dogs are smarter than cats, or vice versa? This is a popular question in the scientific world, and many tried answering it. Let’s see what they came up with.Are Dogs Smarter than Cats? For ages, the debate on the rivalry between cats and dogs has been ongoing. Ultimately, however, it all depends on how you define “smart”. Dogs are often loved for their obedience, their ability to be trained and follow commands, their unwavering loyalty, and their excellent guardian traits. Cats, on the other hand, are known for their independence, their adaptability and problem-solving skills, their free and restless spirit, and their cuddly nature. So, as we can see, while generally different in personalities, both of these animals possess certain cognitive skills – but is one smarter than the other?Recent studies have revealed that both dogs and cats possess unique cognitive abilities suited to their respective lifestyles and evolutionary histories. Meaning, they are completely different animals. Dogs, for example, originated from domesticated canines, far, far back in history. They were bred over thousands of years to work alongside humans, protect flocks, help with hunting, and guard homes. This, in turn, has likely influenced their ability to understand and communicate with us, and to be so devoted as pets. But cats are different. In stark contrast to doggos, cats have retained more of their wild instincts, allowing them to thrive in a variety of environments and situations.All of this means that you can’t really compare the intelligence of a cat and that of a dog. It’s like comparing apples and oranges – it just doesn’t go. Each animal excels in different areas and possesses different strengths. It's more accurate to appreciate the unique qualities of each species rather than trying to determine which one is "smarter."But even so, scientists tried to reach a decisive conclusion. They studied both cats and dogs and ultimately reached an answer - at least, scientifically speaking. Their research shows that dogs are smarter than cats! Some of you might find this answer surprising but don’t raise a revolt just yet. Cats are super intelligent even so. It’s just that they are likely not as smart as some dogs are. The secret is in “smartness” itself. Dogs are intelligent in their own way. They are generally more reliant on humans for problem-solving tasks, but they are adept at learning from observation and experience. They can also be trained to perform a wide range of tasks, from simple tricks to complex behaviors, such as guiding the visually impaired or detecting explosives. Cats, however, are natural hunters and possess excellent problem-solving skills. They are known for their agility, stealth, and ability to strategize when stalking their prey. In a domestic setting, cats demonstrate problem-solving abilities when navigating obstacles, finding hiding spots, and even manipulating objects to access food or toys. So, both of them have different positive traits and different types of intelligence. But it could be that dogs, with their ability to learn and obey commands, are just a tad bit smarter.

Missing Bird Reunited with Family with Nextdoor App

Losing a pet bird is especially devastating because it can be extremely difficult to find them and rescue them. But a good-hearted woman was able to use the Nextdoor app to reconnect a lost cockatiel with his family.

Give Your Cat a Purr-fect Treat

A lot of emphasis gets put on treats that help keep your dog’s teeth clean, but it is also an important consideration for your cat.

Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

Study Finds People Have Trouble Understanding Cats

Do you think that you’re able to accurately interpret your cat’s body language and vocalizations to figure out what they’re feeling or trying to tell you? Although you might be pretty confident in your ability to understand your cat, you might not always be right.

Why Is My Bird Biting Me?

If you’re a bird parent, you love and cherish your feathered friend – but what do you do when your bird nips or bites? This is a behavior that can be both surprising and concerning, especially for first-time bird parents. But know, you’re not alone!If you’re wondering, “Why is my bird biting me?” This article is for you!We will explore the different factors and explanations for your pet bird’s newly developed biting tendencies, helping you understand the motivations, identify when there is a deeper problem requiring your attention, and learn how to address the behavior appropriately.Let’s look at how to set you and your bird up for a long, happy relationship by addressing problem biting today.Do Bird Bites Hurt?The short answer to this is – Maybe? Whether or not your bird’s bite will hurt depends on a few factors, including how the bird bites, their overall intention, your bird’s size, and your level of pain tolerance.Bird bites can range from a light little nibble that merely tickles to bites that have the capability of causing serious damage, especially to vulnerable areas like the eyes, ears, nose, lips, fingers, and toes.The potential for a bird bite to cause severe or lasting injuries highlights the importance of understanding your bird, why they may bite, and how to prevent this situation from happening. It’s also one of the most important reasons to consider when deciding if a bird is right for your child, elderly, or special needs family member.Even smaller birds can cause a surprising amount of pain. Often, it’s not the initial bite that causes the most pain. Instead, it’s the way that they will dig in or even grind their beaks that will lead to discomfort, stinging, and soreness.

BARK Air Introduces a New Flight Tailored for Dogs

Onboard, they have carefully considered every aspect of air travel for dogs. For example, they serve all canine passengers their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to help prevent the discomfort often caused by cabin pressure changes. Of course, during the flight, your pup will be treated to a bit of pampering with dog-friendly snacks. “When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” explained BARK’s Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Matt Meeker. “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world.” BARK Air will launch with limited routes from New York City’s Westchester County Airport (HPN) to Los Angeles’ Van Nuys Airport (VNY) and London, England’s Stansted Airport (STN). Dog parents are taking to social media, where the news is going viral, to express their excitement about the announcement. The first flights will take off on Thursday, May 23. Visit DogsFlyFirst.com for more information about BARK Air, available flights, and booking. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Do Dogs Experience Grief?

Anyone who has ever shared their heart and home with a dog can attest to how deep the emotional connection we form with our best friends is. It is this bond that makes saying goodbye so difficult. But are we the only ones experiencing this pain?If you have recently experienced the passing of a pet or family member and noticed your dog acting a little differently, you may be wondering – Do dogs experience grief, too?In this article, we will dig into the truth about canine emotions and canine grief. This includes understanding what grief means to your dog, learning to recognize the signs that they may be mourning and tips for helping your best friend navigate this difficult time.Do Dogs Experience Grief or Mourning?The short answer is yes, dogs do grieve the loss of a person or animal in their lives. In a 2022 study led by Dr. Federica Pirrone, a veterinary physiologist at the University of Milan, 86% of dog owners reported that they saw a change in behavior in their surviving dog after losing a companion.Our dogs form close bonds with one another and with us. This can be seen both in wild dogs, with the relationships that exist between pack members, as well as the domesticated dogs of today.While they can’t tell us how they are feeling (although we wish they could), dog parents often witness physical and behavioral changes that indicate something is “off” for their dog following a loss. This occurs when a family member (human or pet) passes or even if a family member moves away like a child moving out of the family home.Recognizing that our dogs also go through a grieving process allows us to take steps to help our beloved furry friends deal with this difficult time.

Can You Use Dog Flea Products on Cats?

Final Thoughts – Safe Flea Prevention for CatsWhile flea prevention is an important step to keep your cat safe and healthy, you must ensure that the products you are purchasing are made for use on cats. Many dog flea prevention products include highly toxic chemicals to cats, making them potentially life-threatening.If you suspect you have recently used the wrong flea treatment on your cat, wash the area immediately with soap and water to remove as much of the product as possible. Call your vet for an immediate emergency appointment or make your way to the nearest emergency clinic. These products can be lethal, and time is of the essence.For those concerned about the risks of fleas and flea-transmitted diseases, highly effective products are available that are safe for your kitty. When shopping, read the packaging carefully to ensure it says it is made for use on cats. If you are still unsure, ask your veterinarian for recommendations.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

These Dog Breeds Are at the Most Risk of Overheating

The dog days of summer are upon us. Temperatures are rising across the country and many cities are already faced with record-breaking heat waves. When extremely hot weather rolls in, it’s not only people who struggle to stay cool and hydrated. Our four-legged companions shouldn’t be forgotten during this hot time as they often have trouble cooling down.“High temperatures can affect dogs differently depending on a variety of factors,” said Angela Beal, DVM. “Generally, it’s advisable to avoid taking your dog out when the temperatures exceed 85°F, especially if the humidity is high.”All dogs can get painful burns on their paw pads when they come into contact with hot pavement, but certain dog breeds are more susceptible to overheating in hot weather. “Dogs have sweat glands mainly in their paw pads, so [their] primary way to cool themselves down is by panting…The brachycephalic airway impacts airflow [so] they are unable to cool themselves down effectively in even mild heat,” explained Petco chief veterinarian, Dr. Whitney Miller. She added that dogs with “longer and thicker coats are also more susceptible to heatstroke.”According to veterinarians, breeds most susceptible to heatstroke include, bulldogs, boxers, pugs, Boston terriers, chow chows, Shih Tzus, golden retrievers, huskies, and malamutes. Dogs like bulldogs, boxers, Boston terriers, pugs, Shih Tzus, chow chows, and French bulldogs are classified as brachycephalic breeds. These dogs have short noses and elongated soft palates that predispose them to breathing problems and make it hard to regulate their body temperature. All of these factors combined, make these pups highly susceptible to heatstroke. On the other hand, breeds like huskies, malamutes, and golden retrievers have longer and thicker double coats that can cause these breeds to overheat during the summer easily. These are the two main reasons for heatstroke in dogs, but Dr. Miller adds that young puppies and senior dogs are also at higher risk of overheating. Owners should also keep a close eye on overweight dogs and canines that aren’t in good physical shape. While these factors make some dogs more susceptible to heatstroke, owners should understand that any dog can overheat during a particularly hot summer day. Preventing your dog from overheating is key if you want to keep them healthy and happy during the summer months. “Provide clean, cool drinking water and access to shade. Never leave your pet outside or in a hot car for a long period of time, regardless of the shade,” said Dr. Miller. She advised dog owners to adjust their walking routines during the summer months to ensure they aren’t taking their dogs out during the hottest hours of the day. Walking your pooch early in the morning and later in the evening is a great way to minimize the risk of overheating and painful paw burns. Maintain a regular grooming routine during the summer months, especially if you own a curly or double-coated pooch. Curly-coated breeds, like poodles, can benefit from having their coat trimmed during the summer, while double-coated breeds like, huskies and chow chows, can experience some relief after being brushed by a professional with a de-shedding tool.When it comes to signs that your dog is getting overheated, look for panting, dark, blue, or red gums and tongue, diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, rapid and deep breathing, weakness, disorientation, and collapse. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms on a hot day, take them to a cool and well-ventilated room and offer them fresh, cool water. If you’re concerned that your pooch is too hot or you can’t cool them down, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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How to Prepare for an Adoption Home Visit

7 tips for acing your inspection and bringing your new pup home.

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So you’ve found a pet to bring into your family and filled out the  adoption application opens in a new tab . Many people don’t realize that when adopting from a rescue or shelter, there is often another step before you bring your pup home: The dog adoption home visit, where a representative from the rescue or shelter visits your house or apartment. Learn all about how to prepare for this step in the adoption process and what to expect from a home visit.

What is a home visit for adopting a dog?

You may be wondering why this step is necessary after you’ve already filled out an application. Shelters and rescues want to find the right home for each animal and ensure you will be a good pet parent. A home visit is their opportunity to make sure your home is suitable for a pet and remind you of the commitment and responsibility you’re accepting. In most cases, a home visit for dog adoption is just confirmation that your new pet will be safe, loved, and cared for as a member of your family.

Why do shelters do home visits?

Rescues and shelters often schedule a home visit to help them determine if your living environment and lifestyle are  ideal fits opens in a new tab  for the particular dog you want to adopt. It’s important that new pet parents have the time, resources, and knowledge to provide for their pet’s needs, and a home visit allows the shelter to make sure that the dog will have the loving home they deserve.

Why is preparing for an adoption home visit important?

Your adoption home visit is your opportunity to demonstrate that you can properly care for a rescue pet. Think of the apartment pet interview like a job interview — if you don’t prepare ahead of time, you likely won’t put your best foot forward.

Preparing for an Adoption Home Visit

Everyone in your household, whether other family members or roommates, should be involved in preparing for a home visit and new pet. You should talk to children about how to help take care of the dog and how to behave kindly toward animals.

To make a good impression on the adoption agency representative, you should also come prepared with your own questions to ask to show how invested you are in the process and how much thought you’ve given to taking care of a pet.

What should I do to prepare my home?

You want to show the shelter representative that you understand the responsibility of caring for a pet and will provide your new family member with everything they need to be happy and healthy. Take time to learn how to prepare for a dog and purchase all the  required supplies opens in a new tab , like a crate, water and food bowls, a collar and leash, and plenty of fun toys.

What questions will a shelter ask me during adoption?

When asked, “Why do you want to adopt a dog?” answer truthfully and openly. A home visit is often more of a conversation than a formal interview, and while your answers may not determine the shelter’s final decision, the shelter representative will still ask you multiple questions to gauge your ability to care for a dog. Be prepared for the following dog adoption interview questions and answers:

Have you had experience with this particular type of animal before?

Does everyone in your household agree to get a new pet?

Do you have children? Are they comfortable and responsible with pets?

Do you currently have any pets? Are they compatible with other animals?

Do you rent or are you a homeowner?

Do you have a yard? Is it fenced in? If not, how do you plan to provide exercise, and how often?

Where will your pet be kept during the daytime? And at night?

How do you plan to care for your pet if you need to leave town?

No matter how much you prepare, you may receive some questions during the home visit that you aren’t sure how to answer. Give an honest response, and if you don’t know the answer, admit it. The shelter representative won’t expect you to know everything, and it’s better to admit your lack of knowledge than to make up an answer.

What can I do after the home visit to further support the adoption process?

An adoption home visit is also a chance for you to ask questions of the shelter representative about your potential new pet’s history and temperament. Below are some common questions to ask when getting a dog that can help you prepare for your newest family member:

What is the dog’s history?

Are there any health issues or concerns that I should be aware of?

Do you know what breed(s) the dog is?

What have you noticed about the dog’s personality?

Is the dog house-trained? Do they already know any basic commands?

Does the dog get along with children? With dogs? Other animals?

Knowing the questions to ask before adopting a dog shows that you are engaged in the adoption process and lets the shelter know that you care about providing a proper home for the dog as much as they do.

What are some common mistakes to avoid during an adoption home visit?

Like any other kind of interview, one of the worst things you can do during an adoption home visit is to give the shelter representative the answers you think they want to hear. Be honest and open with your answers — and with your home. That means giving the representative a full tour of the house, including where your pet will eat and sleep. You should also already have supplies for your dog before the home visit to show your preparedness and commitment.

What to Expect During a Home Visit

Your adoption home visit is a chance to show that you can and will provide your new pet with a safe and loving home. We asked Melissa Giordano, Adoption Coordinator of the  Sato Project opens in a new tab , to fill us in on what to expect during this step of the adoption process, so you can better prepare to make the best possible impression.

1. It’s all about state of mind

Giordano emphasizes that shelters and rescues are looking for people who want to do best by their animals.

“We’re not looking for you to have a spotless home with perfect everything because that doesn’t exist,” Giordano says. “We just want to make sure that the dog is going to be safe and that the people are open to suggestions and are going to be thinking through things that could potentially cause a problem.”

So the first thing you can do is take a deep breath and frame the visit in your mind as a chance to have a better and  safer environment for a pet opens in a new tab .

How to Puppy Proof Your Home opens in a new tab

Is your home a danger zone for a new dog? Follow these pro tips.

2. Think like a nervous dog

Giordano emphasized that a major part of her organization’s work is making sure there are no easy ways for a pet to escape their adopter’s home because animals may try and make a break for it if they’re in a new space and spooked. That means making sure that all windows and doors close securely and that you’re not relying on a screen for preventing escape; that any air conditioning units are properly anchored and the soft closures around them held firmly in place; that fences and gates (if present) are fully secure; and that there are no easily accessible tables or chairs for them to get high enough to jump over.

Your space doesn’t need to be spotless, but you need to do a decent clean-up. You want the shelter to know that you’re capable of keeping your home clean and that there’s not anything dangerous for the dog to easily get into. That means securing any garbage containers so they’re not easy to knock over and rifle through; making sure  any plants you have around are pet-safe opens in a new tab ; and, if you have cat litter, making sure the dog can’t get into it. Giordano points out that things you might not even think of could be a problem: “Kids’ toys — sometimes you don’t even think about it, but puppies will chew those apart and could potentially get injured or swallow something that could get stuck.”

4. But don’t be too precious with your belongings

Animals, unfortunately, can be destructive — even if they don’t mean to be. A newly introduced dog may make messes regardless of  how house-trained they are opens in a new tab  as they struggle to get used to a new place. And  they may chew or scratch opens in a new tab  if they’re particularly nervous. So go into the adoption process with the knowledge that there might be some damage around your home, and if you have any rugs, furniture, or extremely precious belongings that you can’t stand to see possibly hurt, put them away until the animal is totally settled and you know how they’ll behave.

10 Questions to Ask a Shelter About an Adoptable Dog opens in a new tab

From exercise needs to medical history to compatibility with kids, here is everything you need to know.

5. Introductions, please

The agency will also want to meet whoever currently lives in your house — people and animals. Not every animal is suited to every living situation, so this helps them ensure that the pet is going into an environment where they will be comfortable. They’ll probably want an introduction to your family members, roommates, and  any other animals onsite opens in a new tab .

6. Be prepared for in-person or over video

In large part because of the pandemic, you may be asked to do a video home visit rather than one in person. This entails dialing into a video chat where a staff member can talk to you as you walk around the house and reveal anything they need a closer look at. Or they might just want you to video a home tour on your own and send it in, which can be easier to coordinate with everyone’s schedules.

7. Be open to change

Above all else, remember that this isn’t an adversarial visit. The shelter wants you and the animal to be the best possible match so that everyone can be happy and fulfilled with one another. Any suggestions they give are so that an animal you adopt will be safer and happier — so go into the process with an open mind and a willingness to adapt, and you’ll be fine.

“The people that are coming to do the home visits are not going to judge them,” Giordano says. “We are not looking for a perfect house. We are just getting a sense for the person or the family to make sure that it’s a match for our dog and that they’re able to give our dog the best, safest, and most loving home.”

What are the reasons for denying pet adoption?

Not every pet adoption application is accepted, and shelters have a number of reasons for denying an adopter. For example, if you work long hours, the shelter may be worried that the dog will spend too much time alone and won’t get the love and care they need.

Some other reasons for denying pet adoption include:

Your home doesn’t have a fenced yard or is too small for the dog

You already own several pets

You are too young (in college or younger) and may not have time to commit to a pet

You are too old and may not be able to properly care for a pet

You have young children in the home

Your current pets are not up-to-date on vaccinations and care

None of your current pets are spayed or neutered

Remember that every pet and every situation is different. The shelter just wants to find the best possible home for each dog in their care, and reasons for denying an adoption are in the pet’s best interests.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

Preparing for your home visit shows that you are ready for the commitment of caring for a pet.

Prepare your home by purchasing the  supplies opens in a new tab  you need to make your home safe and comfortable for your dog. Get rid of  anything  opens in a new tab that could be  dangerous opens in a new tab  to a pet.

How can I make a good impression on the adoption agency representative?

Be enthusiastic about the process, answer questions honestly and openly, and ask your own questions.

Should I involve my family members in the preparation process?

Family members should be involved because everyone in the household should be on the same page when bringing a pet into the home and should know what to expect.

Avoid giving answers you think the representative wants to hear. Instead, give accurate and honest answers.

How can I handle any unexpected questions or situations during the visit?

If you don’t have an answer to a question or are unsure, admit it. The representative will appreciate your honesty.

After your home visit, continue to prepare your home for a new dog by purchasing supplies and asking the shelter questions about your new pet.

There are multiple reasons for denying pet adoption, including a lack of space, too many current pets, young children, and pets that are not spayed or neutered.

References:

How to Adopt a Dog opens in a new tab

Muttville – How to Adopt a Dog opens in a new tab

Korean K9 Rescue – Adoption Process opens in a new tab

Rescue Dogs Rock NYC – Application Process opens in a new tab

Sample Interview Question for Screening opens in a new tab

Guidelines for Screening Potential Adopters opens in a new tab

Home Visit Check List opens in a new tab

• dog opens in a new tab
• dog adoption opens in a new tab
• new dog opens in a new tab
• cat adoption opens in a new tab
• cat opens in a new tab
• cat safety opens in a new tab
• dog safety opens in a new tab
• new cat opens in a new tab
• puppy opens in a new tab
• rescue opens in a new tab
• how to opens in a new tab

Tim Barribeau

Tim Barribeau is a freelance writer, editor, cat dad, and “help your boyfriend buy a suit that actually fits for once” consultant. He was previously the Style and Pets editor at  Wirecutter , and has bylines at a bunch of publications that don't exist anymore (and a couple that still do).

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How to adopt your next pet safely and virtually

Social distance, stay at home, adopt a pet.

By Dilpreet Kainth

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All across the country, people are finding ways to adapt to our new stay-at-home normal, and for some, that means adopting a furry friend. Shelters in the US have reported an increase in adoptions since the start of the pandemic, some of which have had to create waitlists or pause applications until they can rescue more animals. Petfinder.com, which works with shelters and rescue organizations throughout the country, saw adoption inquiries jump 122 percent between March 15th and April 15th. 

It’s led to a unique set of issues that many shelters haven’t faced before: juggling increased applications for pet adoptions and foster homes while having to adjust to their new circumstances. 

Many rescue organizations have had to close their adoption and medical facilities, and with that change has come a shift in strategy. Their first concern was how to ensure their animals were well taken care of with limited staff and closed shelters. For many organizations, the answer is fostering. “Thanks to our extensive network of volunteers, we were able to temporarily move most of the animals in our care into foster homes,” says Kirstin Burdett, senior manager of admissions and matchmaking at the ASPCA Adoption Center, “enabling us to focus on the most vulnerable animals and support animal welfare partners who need our help.”

The second concern was how to adjust their adoption processes. That has led to many organizations switching to video meet and greets, virtual adoption events, and attempts to build connections between foster homes and potential adopters. “Some of our centers are still doing appointment-only, safe, social distanced in-person adoptions,” says Hannah Stember of the Best Friends Animal Society . Though, she added, most are doing virtual meet and greets. 

Meanwhile, this is one of the busiest and most challenging times of the year for rescue organizations, as unaltered cats begin mating in the warmer months and litters of homeless kittens begin appearing outside. Rescue efforts will get busier than before, and more pets will become available for adoption. 

As a result, despite the increase in inquiries, shelters are still looking for support, whether that’s via adopting or fostering. Even though you may not be able to visit an animal shelter, you can still use some of these virtual methods to welcome an animal into your home. Before you take these steps, though, remember that adopting a pet is a commitment for the rest of its life. “A decision to adopt a pet should not be taken lightly. It is a huge time and financial commitment,” says Meagan Licari, president of Puppy Kitty NYC . 

Here are some strategies and advice for adopting a rescue pet during these challenging times.

Research local rescue organizations near you

First, make sure you decide what pet is right for you and your household. Cat, dog, lizard, rabbit, guinea pig? 

Once you know, make a list of eight to 10 rescue organizations that are in your area. It’s important to consider several sources because many shelters are inundated with applications these days and some might have waitlists. Shelters don’t usually see this quantity of applications at any one time, and in addition, many of their facilities are understaffed with limited volunteers. So be patient. Don’t get discouraged.

While researching, verify that these are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations . Each nonprofit organization has to apply to receive their 501(c)(3) status and EIN number which allows them to be a tax-exempt charitable organization. 

Take some time to also do some general research about each organization. Visit their website, read some recent articles where they’ve been mentioned, and check out their social media pages. Once you’re in the application process, you can also confirm with the organization how they keep medical records of all their animals. 

Before you adopt a pet:

• Talk to everyone in the household about the adoption
• Ensure you can financially support your future pet and its medical bills
• Research all the ways you need to care for and train your pet
• Consider your lifestyle now AND post-pandemic
• Make sure you have time to socialize, play, and bond with your pet
• Prepare for your pet’s transition into your home
• Pet-proof your entire home
• Gather supplies
• Make an emergency preparedness kit for your pet

Be flexible when looking for a pet

Start looking for the right pet for you and your household. Visit each organization’s website and take a look at their adoptable pet bios. You can also check out Petfinder and Adopt a Pet , where you’ll be able to see pet profiles and be synced up with a rescue organization. 

Be as open-minded as you can and don’t settle on just one animal. Just as it’s important to have several options for rescue organizations, it’s also important to meet and learn more about several different animals. 

Keep in mind that many of these shelters might not have the bandwidth to constantly update every pet profile, so if you choose one, it’s possible that it may no longer be available. Kittens and puppies are some of the first animals to be adopted, so there may be a waitlist to adopt when you reach out. Be flexible and have a conversation with the organization. They’ll guide you in the right direction. 

Apply to adopt

Say you’ve found a pet you’d like to adopt — and it is available. Great! First, you’ll fill out an adoption application which can be found on each organization’s website. 

You may need to wait, since many organizations are juggling an influx of applications. But eventually you’ll be contacted, via phone or email, to discuss the application and your interests, and possibly schedule a virtual home visit. Some of the things you may be asked include:

• Your pet history
• Whether your landlord allows for pets
• If everyone in the household has okayed this decision
• If you can afford to support an animal 
• If you’re open to advice and information about caring for your new pet
• Whether you have any allergies to the pet you’re adopting

The organization will then review your information further and let you know if you’ve been approved.

Schedule a meet & greet

If you’re approved, you’ll then schedule an appointment so you can meet your pet. Some local shelters will schedule in-person appointments so they can regulate how many people are in the facility and take proper precautions. Others may schedule video calls as a way for you to virtually meet the animal. Ask each organization what their process is when they contact you about your application so that you can find one that you’re comfortable with. 

If all goes well, the organization will schedule a good time for you to pick up your pet, or they may find a volunteer or transporter to bring them to you. 

If the pet is in a foster home

If the pet that you want to adopt is being fostered, the organization might connect you with the foster home where it is currently living. This will be a virtual video call where you’ll be able to “meet” your future pet over the call. It’s a great time to ask the foster home detailed questions about the animal, its personality / behavior, and see if there’s anything you can do to make it happy and comfortable at your home.

Some organizations are also offering foster-to-adopt situations where you can temporarily foster a pet before officially deciding to adopt. Because in-person meet and greets are not possible for many organizations, this is a good alternative to ensure the adopter and pet are a good match. 

Join a virtual adoption event

Keep an eye out for virtual adoption events! This type of meet is a first for many organizations but has become an effective way for adopters to learn about future pets. It’s also a great opportunity for you to hear from the organization, learn about its adoption process, and “meet” several different animals who are up for adoption. 

“We have seen great success operating our virtual adoption events , which run every weekend,” says Alena Jones of Houston Pets Alive . Best Friends Animal Society also recently used Instagram to host an “adoptagram.” “It allows for the animals to be shown off in a way that’s not stressful for them and their personalities can really shine,” says Licari of Puppy Kitty NYC , which recently held its first event on Zoom. (Disclosure: Puppy Kitty NYC is an organization with which I regularly foster and volunteer.)

Be sure to follow these organizations on social media so you can see their adoptable pets and find out when the next virtual adoption event will be.

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How Adoption Works

Your adoption: as unique as you and your pet.

That’s because we partner with thousands of local adoption groups that provide the dogs and cats you see in PetSmart stores and at our events. And when you adopt one of these pets, we pay the partner group a small fee, which helps them save another pet’s life.

Working together, we can solve the pet homelessness problem — starting with your community. 

The process: here’s what to expect

Each adoption center or event takes on the local flavor of its community and adoption partners. That means the process will be slightly different depending on where you go. But there are some common things you can expect:

• An interview.  Once you’ve chosen the pet who seems right for your family, you’ll meet with a representative from the local adoption group. They’ll ask you some questions to make sure that the pet is a good match for your home and will make you and your pet happy for many years to come. They may also have valuable information for you about the pet’s personality, medical history and habits.
• Some paperwork.  You will fill out an application and pay a reasonable adoption fee, which is usually set by the adoption partner. It’s a good idea to reserve 30 minutes to up to 2 hours to complete the interview and paperwork. 
• Taking your pet home … soon.  In many cases, you’ll bring your pet home the same day. But there are some adoption partners that require a background check and/or home visit to ensure the pet’s long-term safety. Ask your adoption representative about this at the beginning of the process if waiting a few days is not what you had in mind. Another PetSmart store in your area may have a partner that does same-day adoptions.   

Resources to find your new pet now 

Adorable pets are waiting to meet you today. To get started, you can: 

• Visit a PetSmart Charities Adoption Center at a  PetSmart store  near you.
• Find upcoming  PetSmart Charities Adoption Events .
• View adoptable pets online .

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Pet Adoption 101: What to Do Before, During and After a Shelter Visit

An expert breaks down pet ownership for people who have never had a pet before, by nina lin • published august 14, 2019 • updated on july 31, 2020 at 1:34 pm.

You've seen that doggie in the window and fell in love — but you've never raised a dog before. Or a cat. Or a hamster. You've never even had a bowl of goldfish as a kid. 

Like any other major life changes — and adding to the family is a major life change — aspiring pet owners-to-be have a laundry list of considerations and preparations that need to be made before Fluffy can come home to stay. Rachel Maso, the senior manager of behavior at the ASPCA Adoption Center  in New York City, breaks down what you need to know before, during and after adoption for anybody thinking and wondering "...now what?"

I'm thinking of adopting a pet, but I've never owned a pet before. Help!

If you are thinking of adopting and raising a pet for the first time, Maso recommends taking a hard look at your lifestyle and budget to see what type of pet companion would be the best fit for you. Larger dogs may cost more to raise than smaller dogs; cats may be better companions for a frequent workaholic with little time to spend walking a pet around the block.

"Consider your activity level, amount of time spent at home and the types of activities you would enjoy doing with your new pet," Maso says. Flexibility and an open mind to other pets can help ease first-time pet owners into the adoption process.

The size of a pet does not have to stop you from adopting if you, like many other pet owners, live in an urban shoebox. The amount of space a pet needs depends more on its energy level and personality than its size.

"Some dogs may benefit from living two streets down from a great dog park; others may show no interest and will prefer a nice, quiet walk around the block followed by a long day of napping," Maso says. For cats, plenty of spaces to climb, jump and leap will make up for a lack of square footage in your home.

What else do I need to know before I adopt?

Sudden allergies are just one of several reasons why pets are turned over to a shelter by their owner. And pet allergies are common  — they hit approximately 5 to 10 percent of the population, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

A visit to the doctor to determine any pet allergies is a must for first-time pet owners that have had limited access to animals before adopting. Don't think you're safe from allergies if you adopt hairless breeds either. Reactions can develop in the presence of saliva, urine or dander.

Surprise bills and unexpected costs are another reason that owners might surrender their pets. Use the tool below to get an estimate of how much a pet might cost to raise over its lifetime, and if that number is within your or your family's budget.

Note: Prices are adjusted for 2020 using the Consumer Price Index for non-food and energy consumption, and reflects a national average — prices will vary dependent on location. Data: ASPCA, Consumer Price Index Nina Lin/NBC

What are some myths to know about as I decide on the kind of pet I want to adopt?

Glad you asked. Here are four:

• The age of a pet does not determine how affectionate it will be with you.
• Shelter animals are not necessarily given up because of a troubled past. Ask the shelter for a pet's background or known issues if you are unsure.
• Species does not determine energy level. Cats play just as much as dogs do.
• The space of your home does not determine the size of your pet. Large dogs can be happy with smaller backyards and homes depending on its (and your) personal needs.

What are my first steps to becoming a great pet owner?

Your home is pet-proofed, your budget is sound and your pet is ready to start a new life with a new family. Make sure you check off the following:

• Get your pet spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Most shelters will do this as part of the adoption process with the fee you pay, Maso says, but for pets that aren't, this is a great time to...
• Get to know your local veterinarian or pet clinic (and get your pet those booster shots.)
• Designate a short-term pet caregiver in case of emergencies. Think of them as the godparent for your pet.
• Stock enough emergency pet food and supplies to last for two weeks.
• Research and prepare a plan for severe medical emergencies. Keep a list of phone numbers and addresses accessible in case your pet gets sick.

What should I do once they're here?

The most important thing right after you bring your pet home is to give it some space and time to get used to its new home and new surrounding. Maso recommends setting up a safe, quiet space in your home or apartment for your pet.

Dogs should have a kennel or crate with its door left open.

Cats should have a box or carrier on a shelf, cat tree, or any space that's elevated in your home.

"For the first few weeks, focus on relationship building and establishing routine," Maso says. "Try to create a consistent schedule and have everyone in the household participate in activities that your new pet loves."

What if it doesn't work out?

Things happen. Surprise bills, health concerns, barking, hyperactivity, aggressiveness and personal emergencies are all reasons that an owner might have for giving up a pet. Shelters around the country took in over 3 million pets alone in 2018, according to Shelter Animals Count.

But don't be quick to get rid of your new pet early on over behavioral bumps that could be fixed with some time, space and support. "Animals, just like people, need time to adjust to new surroundings and environment," Maso says. "It may take some animals months to settle in completely."

Rehoming – having another family take your pet in – is another humane option if an adoption does not work out. If all else fails, check in with the originating shelter.

Sounds great. I'm ready to adopt. Where do I go?

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Expectations for Visiting an Animal Shelter

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If you're considering a pet shelter adoption, you may have a lot of questions: What will the process be like? Can I bring my pet home the first day? Will there be a screening period? It's normal to feel anxious and excited to bring a pet home, and asking questions is a great way to prepare for the process. Visiting an animal shelter should be a happy moment, and it will be if you know what to expect.

Prepping for the Big Visit

If you have a lot of animal shelters in your area, ask for recommendations from friends and family who recently adopted. If not, call or email to schedule an appointment where you, and possibly even your whole family, can visit with the animals and see if there's a special connection with any of them. However, don't rely on the phone call or email to secure your visit. Animal shelters are often staffed with volunteers, and they get busy. If a shelter's operating hours are listed online or on a building sign, head over there in person to meet the pets for yourself.

Make sure to prep your home before you visit on the chance that you fall in love with a furry friend and have the opportunity to bring him home that evening. However, never make a snap decision when it comes to adopting a pet. It's usually best to spend a day or two sleeping on it. Most shelters will allow you to place a hold on a pet because they know what a big decision it is to adopt. Be sure to dog or cat-proof so that your pet and your personal belongings will be safe in the beginning. You'll also need necessities such as food, a collar, a leash, cat litter and other items that will help both your new pet and your family handle the transition well. Once you have everything you need, you'll be ready to visit the shelter in person.

What Is the Process Like?

If you haven't identified a particular pet you'd like to see, the first step of visiting a shelter will involve walking through the kennel area to view the pets. Once you see a dog or cat that catches your eye, the shelter staff will take him out of his crate and move you into a space where you and the animal can get to know each other. If you're visiting to meet a particular pet, tell the person manning the front desk, and they'll introduce you to the animal immediately. If you're not 100 percent sure what you're looking for, talk to the staff about your household and why you've chosen to adopt. They can help direct you toward pets that meet your needs and personality.

There's a good chance you'll fall in love. You've been forewarned!

If there isn't a connection between you and the animal, don't feel bad — especially if you went there looking for a dog or cat you found online. The most important part of a pet shelter adoption is connecting with the right animal, not just any animal. If this pet isn't a fit for your family, don't worry. He'll find its forever home eventually. In this case, the shelter employee or volunteer will take the pet back to the kennel, and give you the opportunity to meet with other animals.

Or, maybe you automatically click with the first animal you meet. In that case, congratulations! Your family just expanded, and this dog or cat will always hold a special place in your heart. The first thing to do is tell a staff member you'd like to move forward with a pet shelter adoption.

Depending on the facility, they may allow you to continue playing with the pet while they begin the administrative process, or you may be temporarily separated from your new pet while you head to the office to fill out paperwork.

All adoptions require a photo ID, an application, and a fee to be collected before an animal can go home. The fee can range anywhere from $25 to $200, so call ahead to confirm the price if you need to budget for the expense ahead of time. Don't forget to ask for a spay or neuter certificate as well as a detailed list of vaccinations and any other medical history, if available. You'll need this to get a license in your town or city, and your veterinarian will also want this information on file.

Now, in most cases, you'll be ready to bring your animal home. However, there are many shelters that make individuals wait a period of time after visiting before they release the pet to them. Although not common, some will request a home visit. It can be a downer to expect to leave with a pet after a trip to the shelter. If that is a priority for you, call for more details before visiting.

Expect to be at the shelter for at least an hour, and if you bring family with you, kids especially, know that it might take longer.

What (or Who) Should You Bring with You?

Speaking of family, should you bring anyone with you for a pet shelter adoption? The answer to that varies from person to person and family to family. If you're single, there's really no need to bring anyone with you to approve of your decision, unless you want some company and moral support. If you're a couple, both of you should be present, especially since the dog or cat needs to view you both as his leaders.

A family makes the situation tricky. If you bring young children to a shelter to meet animals, yet don't feel comfortable bringing one home, your children may feel disappointed — especially if they felt a significant connection with one animal. Similarly, young children have a ton of energy, which may disrupt the get-to-know-you environment. And finally, while the pet may show no signs of aggression, it's impossible to know if the cat or dog has a history of aggression against children.

However, there are so many good reasons to have your whole family there as well. First, this pet won't belong just to you. Your new furry friend is entering an entire family, and you want to make sure everyone is happy with the choice and feels a connection to the loving animal. Children of all ages will feel special to help make the choice and give their opinion. Finally, you'll feel more confident to watch the dog or cat interact with your children, knowing that their relationship started out strong.

Important Questions About the Adoption Process

There are many questions you'll want to ask the shelter staff before adopting an animal. First, find out the current and previous health status. Have there ever been any problems physically? If so, find out if the pet needs to be on a specific diet or take any medications. You'll also want to know the animal's age, which will help you choose the best food and treats. Finally, don't forget to ask behavioral questions, too. You need to know if the animal has any dominance or aggression issues, especially if there are children in your home. Similarly, find out if this new pet plays well with other animals if you have another pet in your house.

Shelter staff will also have questions for you to answer. Their goal is to make sure the animal is placed in a safe, loving environment. They don't want the dog or cat to cycle through homes, ending up back at the shelter in a short period of time. Don't feel as if they are grilling you. All of the questions they ask are important to help them identify whether you are the right fit for the pet in question. Since animals don't talk, the shelter staff act as animal advocates to ensure the cats and dogs go to healthy families.

Visiting an animal shelter and going through with a pet shelter adoption is a very big deal. Congratulations on this momentous occasion!

Contributor Bio

Erin Ollila

Erin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform—and even transform—its intended audience. Her writing can be found all over the internet and in print, and includes interviews, ghostwriting, blog posts, and creative nonfiction. Erin is a geek for SEO and all things social media. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. Reach out to her on Twitter @ReinventingErin or learn more about her at http://erinollila.com .

Almost Home Animal Rescue

How to adopt and fees.

Which One do I choose ? ​ You can find a wide variety dogs and cats waiting to meet someone just like you right here. If you find one you love, please put his or her name on the application. Or, if you still aren’t sure which dog or cat is right for youl, our adoption specialists love playing matchmaker. ​ What happens after I apply ? ​ After we look over your application, we will talk to you on the phone about the dog or cat you’d like to adopt and tell you more about his or her personality.

Remember, our goal is to make a perfect match. Then we set up a meeting. If it is love at first site, we arrange a home visit. A home visit is done by a Almost Home member in your area. It helps ensure that the dog or cat you’re selecting is the right fit for you.

Adoption Fees

Rabbits: $150, puppies up to 6 months, $650 puppies 7 months to 1 year, $500 dogs 2 to 6 years old, $425 seniors 6+ years old, $375.

The fee covers spaying and neutering, microchipping, age-appropriate vaccines and/or medical care, and one free office visit at our vet. Please fill out the online Adoption Application if you are interested inadopting a dog or cat. All applications must be reviewed and are not guaranteed that adoption will occur. Almost Home prides itself in carefully choosing the right forever home for each and every pet.

What isn’t mentioned (but can still be included) is the cost of housing and utilities at the homes where our pets are being fostered. Our members give freely of themselves and do their best to train, reward, offer affection or even help the pet heal from untreated ailments so that it can be adopted when healthy. Food and medicine for our pets are covered by funds raised and donations. Ultimately a price cannot be put on the good natured efforts a foster home puts forth. Almost Home’s foster parents are invaluable to the re-homing process.

Although the adoption fee is a way to subsidize costs of caring for the numerous animals, it also serves one greater function. The adoption fee will put off anybody who is not willing to spend money on their animals. If you can not afford the adoption fee, then you are unlikely to be able to afford care for your pet when he falls ill or has an accident. Saving the money to adopt a dog is a lot easier than having $500.00 cash in hand when something goes wrong and medical attention is necessary.

If you won’t spend it to bring home a loving companion, then it is more than likely that you won’t spend it when it is really needed either. It is a harsh world out there for pets, and making sure the dogs go to a good, responsible home that will care for them for the rest of their life is the number one concern of Almost Home.

Adopting a Pet From a Rescue (And Why the Rules Sometimes Seem Wacky)

Have you ever wondered why pet rescues rules are often so weird? Here’s the reason for all the red tape and how you can navigate it.

Adopting a pet from a rescue is startlingly similar to adopting a human baby from an adoption agency.

In both cases, the groups require a thorough screening process to ensure that the pet/baby is placed in a home where they will not only be cherished for the rest of their life but also receive the appropriate care and nurturing they need to thrive.

If you’ve never worked with a pet rescue, you might be annoyed by some of the hurdles you’ll have to jump over en route to adopting a pet.

But there’s one simple reason for all those hurdles: Rescues want to make sure their babies — many of whom they’ve saved from illness, abuse and death — are placed in permanent, loving homes where they will be spoiled and pampered for the rest of their lives.

Although there’s no way to determine for certain whether a potential adopter can provide the perfect home, rescues try hard — which means they do a lot of work in screening their applicants.

Here’s what you can expect from most rescues (policies and procedures will vary).

Applying to Adopt a Pet From a Rescue

An adoption application gathers the data the rescue uses as criteria for screening potential adopters.

Expect 1–2 pages of basic questions, most of which focus on your home, lifestyle and beliefs on how to properly care for a pet.

They’ll also try to match you with a pet who will thrive in your environment.

For example:

• If you live in an apartment and work long hours , a rescue will probably balk at giving you a young, active dog but might recommend an older dog or a pair of dogs who won’t mind lazing around all day, provided they have a place to potty.
• If you live in the city or the suburbs and allow your cats to roam outside , a rescue will probably reject you — it has grown increasingly dangerous to allow cats to live outdoors, and the rescue won’t want to take any chances.
• If you have infants or toddlers living with you, a rescue will not let you adopt a dog or cat who responds poorly to roughhousing.
• If you live in a house, the rescue will want to know about the security and height of your fence .
• If you plan to or have a history of performing “cosmetic” surgery on your animals — cropping ears, docking tails, declawing cats — the rescue will reject you outright, just as they will if you have intact animals (except those who are too old or ill to have surgery). If you want a declawed cat, discuss the decision with the rescue or shelter staff. Be open and honest. There may be an already-declawed cat available for adoption.

The application shouldn’t be too long.

You also shouldn’t be required to provide your annual income, information about your employer or your Social Security number.

Here’s one example of a thorough but fair online application for adopting a pet from a rescue.

Be as honest as possible. Rescues and shelters have many resources to verify all the information you provide. They aren’t looking for a reason to reject you. They’re just looking out for the animals’ well-being.

Phone Interviews for Adopting a Pet From a Rescue

The next step is a chat on the phone, which any potential adopter should have no problem doing.

The rescue will want to get to know you a little better before the adoption proceeds further.

Just be yourself — and be honest! If you make up stuff because you think it’s what the rescue wants to hear, they won’t be able to match you accurately with a pet.

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Reference Checks for Adopting a Pet From a Rescue

Although not every rescue checks references, most ask for at least 2, usually from a friend, neighbor, co-worker or veterinarian.

Simply providing the information is often enough.

But if they call the vet clinic you wrote down as a reference, and the tech answering the phone says, “Who?” — it’s not good.

Home Visits Before You Adopt a Pet From a Rescue

The next step — the one that naysayers usually find so intrusive — is the home check.

However, it is the most important step in the screening process, so it’s usually mandatory. The exception would be if you are adopting from a remote area, in which case the rescue might request you email them photos of your home and yard.

Here’s what to expect with a home visit before you adopt a pet from a rescue:

• A good rescue won’t care if you live in a house or apartment, as long as the pet you want to adopt is suited to your lifestyle .
• Most home visits take 10–15 minutes and include a brief tour of your home and yard.
• The rescue representative won’t open your drawers or run a white-gloved finger over your baseboards.
• They’ll want to meet your other pets and the other family members to make sure the pet’s new home is safe and secure.
• The rescue isn’t there to judge your decorating style or housekeeping skills. It simply wants to make sure you are who you say you are and not a hoarder, lab, reseller or someone who has lied on their application about their home, family and lifestyle.
• The rescue probably won’t bring the pet with them for the home visit, just in case it doesn’t work out.

Meeting Your New Pet in Person

Unless you’ve already met the pet at an adoption event, you probably won’t meet them in person until the day you plan to adopt them.

The rescue should bring the pet to your home to allow you to get to know them and decide whether or not you’re ready to adopt:

• If it’s love at first sight, you can probably conclude the adoption that day.
• If you don’t think the pet is a good match, or if you need time to think it over, you can conclude the adoption another day if the animal is still available.

Adoption Contract

Every good pet rescue will require you to sign an adoption contract before you complete the adoption.

If a rescue doesn’t do this, then they aren’t careful enough with their animals, and you shouldn’t work with them.

Although contracts vary widely among organizations, you’ll probably see these required provisions:

• You must provide basic care. In addition to food, shelter and water, you must commit to providing the animal with veterinary care, exercise and, of course, love.
• You are adopting the animal for the rest of their life. If you cannot keep the animal at any point in the future, you must notify the rescue and allow them to help rehome the pet, whether it’s just signing off on a friend or family member taking in the pet or finding a new home altogether. Rescues are responsible for the health and security of their animals, even after they are adopted.
• You must keep the rescue tag on the animal. Although not every rescue requires this provision, it’s a good idea. If someone finds your pet and can’t reach you, the rescue can serve as a backup.
• You must spay or neuter the animal and complete scheduled rounds of vaccination. If your pet is too young to spay, neuter or vaccinate before the adoption, you will be required to give the rescue an additional deposit (around $100) that they will refund when you send them a copy of the medical records.

You’ll probably be asked to initial several more conditions, but these are the basics.

Adoption Fees for Pet Rescues

The source of much argument with anti-rescue people, the adoption fee is the donation you give the rescue in exchange for adopting the animal.

It is not a sale price.

Rescues are nonprofit, and I’ve yet to encounter one that wasn’t operating deeply in the red. They need every bit of funding they can get their hands on, and most of it comes from adoption fees.

Very few rescues charge adopters the same amount of money that they have spent on vetting costs. If they did, a 10-year-old dog would cost at least $500, sometimes much more, and people simply won’t pay that much for an older animal.

Unfortunately, the majority of fosters come into rescues sick, old or needing major vet care. Most rescues skew fees for these pets, charging as little as $50.

Occasionally a rescue will get puppies. It doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it’s an excellent opportunity for the rescue to make back some of the money they’ve spent vetting the needy animals.

If you see a purebred puppy, especially a highly desirable breed, like a Maltese or Yorkie , expect to pay $300–500. All those funds will go straight to paying expenses, but, sadly, probably won’t make much of a dent.

If you are working with a registered nonprofit, the adoption fee will be 100% tax-deductible.

Expect to hear from the rescue from time to time, especially the pet’s foster parents .

I love to keep in contact with the people who adopt my dogs! No matter how long they were here, my fosters were a part of my family.

I miss them when they’re gone, so anytime I receive an update or pictures, I get all warm and fuzzy inside.

Watch this delightful video about a pair of Dachshunds who were rescued:

Why Was My Pet Adoption Denied by the Rescue Group?

If the rescue rejected you, they probably had a reason.

It might be a temporary situation you need to resolve — such as building a fence or waiting for a child to get a little older — but it’s probably because of one of these reasons:

• You lied on your application .  Bad move.
• Your home is unsafe. No rescue will place an animal in a home where their safety is in question. If you don’t have a secure yard, if family members always leave the door or gate open, or if you have dangerous home improvement projects going on, then don’t expect the rescue to approve you. Talk about it to see if you can remedy the problem.
• It wasn’t a good match. You might think Twinkles is the perfect kitty for you, but the rescue may think otherwise. They know the animal and what they need in term of their perfect home. If it isn’t a good match, don’t get mad. Talk with the rescue about another pet that may be better for you.
• You wanted an “outdoor dog.” Dogs are not lawn ornaments. They are social animals who deserve to be a part of your family. You don’t have to let them up on your couch, but if you’re planning on chaining up your adopted puppy in the yard, don’t expect that adoption to go through.
• You’re under 21. In addition to insurance liabilities, rescues don’t like to adopt to young people because they don’t usually know where they’ll be in 5 years. If you go to college, you won’t be able to take your pet with you. If you move to a no-pets building , you’ll need to find a new home for the animal. There are exceptions, of course: If you’re living a stable life, especially if you’re married or in a permanent relationship, and live in your own home, the rescue might bend the age rule.
• Yours is a military family. Too many pets come into rescues when their families are deployed . If your family has a history of moving around base to base, the rescue will probably reject you, simply because you won’t know the circumstances of your family’s next post. If you are living in permanent housing, the rescue should be fine with it. If it isn’t, look for another rescue.
• You’re weird. OK, this is the single biggest reason I reject applicants, even though it’s completely subjective. If an applicant argues with me or gets angry with me, that’s it. Other times, my gut tells me no, and I trust my gut. Rescues don’t tell you when you’re rejected because of your poor behavior or attitude, so if you’ve been turned down for unexplained reasons, it’s probably because you’re weird.

Remember, rescues don’t exist to supply people with pets.

Their function is to find homes for needy animals. If it isn’t yours, they’ll find another.

You always have the option of adopting from your local shelter .

A Note About “Bad” Rescues

Most animal rescues are great, but a few are miserable to work with.

If you see any of the following red flags, choose another rescue:

• No one gets back to you. Not only do rescue volunteers juggle work and family life, but also they spend a great many hours every week — sometimes every day — saving animals’ lives. This includes arranging to bail the animals out of the shelter, getting them vet care , nursing them into good health, working with behavior issues, taking them to adoption events, interviewing potential adopters and doing lots of laundry. That said, if you submit an application and don’t hear back within a week, even when you follow up, you aren’t working with a good rescue.
• The animals don’t seem healthy. Not all rescues can afford extensive veterinary care, but they do need to make sure their fosters don’t have kennel cough or a respiratory infection, both of which are common in shelter pets. Also, if the animals are dirty or look neglected, it’s a sign that they aren’t being treated well.
• The paperwork is odd. A good rescue will require you to complete an adoption application and contract. If they don’t, or if they don’t provide the shelter paperwork or spay/neuter and vaccination paperwork, something isn’t right.
• The rescue turns down qualified applicants. If you have had pets all your life, have a stable life, live in a house with a huge, safe backyard, don’t have any boisterous young children, and have at least one other pet in great health and the rescue rejects you, this kind of scenario can be a sign that the rescue is hoarding animals because they don’t think anyone is good enough to adopt them.

Another way in which you might have problems with a rescue is that the people who staff them might be extremely unpleasant.

Sadly, this is not uncommon. When people work with shelter animals year after year, they see the worst that humans can do.

Once you encounter these types of situations over and over again, it eats away at you. Many volunteers begin to dislike people categorically, especially after having to deal with grossly under-qualified adopters, many of whom make a big stink if their application is rejected for legitimate reasons.

If you run into a cranky rescue volunteer, try to be compassionate and patient. Keep in mind that the volunteer is probably exhausted.

Always remember that if you have a bad experience with a rescue, all you have to do is go to a different rescue. You’ll find hundreds listed on Petfinder .

Try a Shelter First

A question I frequently get is, “Why should I jump through all these hoops when I can go to the shelter and get any animal I please?”

First off, please go to the shelter !

Pets in rescue are no longer in danger of being euthanized  — but pets in shelters are.

But keep in mind that adopting through rescues does offer a few benefits over adopting directly from the shelter:

• The pet will be healthy. Animal shelters will spay/neuter, vaccinate and usually microchip the pet before they send them home with you — but that’s it. Shelters don’t have the budget to treat sick animals. They’re often put down immediately. A rescue will make sure the animal will get any necessary veterinary care, including medication, dental cleanings or surgery. If they can afford it, they’ll pay for blood work and a urinalysis.
• You’ll know the pet’s temperament. When animals in the shelter, they are not themselves. How could they be? It’s loud, they’re scared and they don’t know what’s going to happen next. When a pet is in foster care with a rescue, the foster parents will have the chance to assess their personality and determine their needs, especially regarding children, strangers and other animals.
• You can specify the kind of pet you want. If you want a dog or cat of a particular age, personality or breed, you might not have luck at the shelter. A rescue can help you find the pet you’re looking for, even if it takes awhile.
• The pet will probably be trained. Although there’s not much time for formal training when pets are in foster care, they are usually house-trained and leash trained.

By adopting from rescues, you’re not only giving a home to a pet who truly deserves it, but also you’re opening a spot for another needy animal.

Final Thoughts on Adopting a Pet From a Rescue

Sometimes adoptions don’t work out . That’s why groups state clearly on the forms that the pets are to be returned to them.

Beware of any group that doesn’t have that clause. This is one time when a take-back is not just a good thing — it could be a life-saver.

This guide to adopting a pet from a rescue was written by Tamar Love Grande , who has fostered and adopted out many dozens of dogs over the years. Allison Gray , a former animal shelter worker, and T.J. Banks , who has been involved in cat rescue and fostering, also contributed to this article. It was last updated Nov. 20, 2018.

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Small Paws places roughly 1000 Bichons each year. Our rate of return is well under one percent. We are doing something right! At the Bichon Bashes that we attend all over the country, we see these adopters and their Bichons! Last year, over 2000 people attended Small Paws Bashes and we got to see them again, and their Bichons. These Bichons aren’t going to bad homes. Some of these homes may not be mansions. Some of them may be spotless, and some may be not so spotless, but they all have one thing in common. THEY HAVE HISTORIES OF TAKING EXCELLENT CARE OF THEIR PREVIOUS DOGS OR THEY WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN APPROVED TO ADOPT FROM SMALL PAWS RESCUE. We hope that this explains the protocol that we have for choosing adopted homes, which works very well and finds excellent, loving homes…with people who have histories of taking great care of their dogs.

This process has worked well for us for 11 years now, with a return rate of well under 1%. There is no one in the country that does what Small Paws does, on the scale that we do it! Here at Small Paws, we focus on the safety of our volunteers, the histories that adopters have with their previous dog’s vet and grooming care, commitments made in advance to love these adopted Bichons, warts and all, and the safe and forever placement of each and every Small Paws Rescue Bichon. Sincerely, Robin Pressnall

Small Paws ® Rescue Inc., a charitable, Federal not-for-profit organization, is to rescue and supply non-aggressive Bichons, nationwide, with love, shelter, food, human companionship, and medical care, until permanent placement is secured into a pre-screened loving home, as our resources allow. Small Paws ® Rescue Inc. is 501-C3 Tax exempt charitable organization. All donations are tax deductable.

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Why Are Home Visits Necessary During Pet Adoption Process?

If you’re interested in adopting a pet through oasis animal rescue (and we hope you are), our staff will mention that part of the adoption process involves a home visit. why.

The great majority of people interested in adopting a pet from a rescue organization are pet lovers with one goal in mind – to provide a safe and loving forever home to a pet in need. These caring people are certainly rescue pet saviours and thankfully we meet more of them every day.

When we make a commitment to find a new home for a rescue animal or pet in need, we are also making a commitment to potential adopters – and that is, to do our best to make sure that the pet you adopt is suitable for your home and lifestyle. Obviously, we want your pet adoption to be a successful, rewarding experience for you, your family and your new pet.

Better Chance For Long-Term Pet Adoption Success

Though a home visit can’t guarantee that every pet will be the perfect match for every adoptive family, the visit is an opportunity for you to learn more about the animal’s past, it’s behaviour and it’s needs for the future.

Open discussion with one of our visiting staff members helps you decide if you really want to commit to providing a forever home for the particular pet you were interested in, or if another rescue pet, with perhaps different characteristics, personality and needs would actually give you both a better chance for long-term adoption success.

As mentioned, the majority of people who are considering adopting a pet through Oasis are genuine pet lovers but, unfortunately, we also have to be aware of the person who may not have the same good intentions when enquiring about adopting a pet in need:

For example, in some sad (and hopefully rare) cases, people involved in the cruel dog-fighting underworld have been known to use pets obtained through rescue organizations as “bait” animals when training their fighting dogs to develop more aggression.

We’ll leave the gruesome details of that ‘business’ to your imagination. Sadly, the potential for post-adoption animal cruelty in any form is a reality that every pet rescue organization works hard to avoid.

A Welcome Part Of Pet Adoption Process

Pre-adoption home visits contribute to the long-term success of pet adoptions and hundreds of families who have already adopted an Oasis Animal Rescue pet have used the visit to confirm or even re-consider the pet they have chosen to adopt.

And if the prospect of a home visit also helps to deter even one person with bad intent from abusing a rescue pet, we’re sure you’ll agree too that home visits are a necessary and welcome part of our pet adoption process.

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Need to find your pet a new home?

Explore ways to keep your pet or find them a happy new home.

If you're facing a financial burden or health issue, unable to find   pet-friendly housing  or having a hard time managing your pet’s behavior, you may find it difficult to care for your cat or dog. Since many challenges are temporary, it may be possible for you and your pet to stay together. 

Explore your options

Could you and your pet stay together with help? Before  rehoming your cat or dog, take time to think things through. You know your pet better than anyone, so consider what's best for them—and what's best for you. Local organizations may be able to help you and your pet stay together. Reach out to a local   pet rescue  or   contact 211  to explore your options. Advice on pet behavior, training resources, help finding pet-friendly housing,   free or low-cost veterinary care  and food banks that provide pet food may help you keep your pet.

Check with the animal shelter, rescue or breeder where you got your pet. Some organizations require in the adoption contract that you return the pet to them if you can no longer provide care. Even if it wasn’t part of your contract, the organization or breeder may be able to help you find your pet a new home.

Pet behavior issues

Many behavior problems can be caused by a treatable medical condition. For example, a house-trained pet may begin urinating in the house due to a urinary tract infection that a veterinarian can diagnose and easily treat.

If there's no physical cause for the problem, remember that many common pet behavioral issues have simple solutions. Check out our tips below, or consider consulting an animal behaviorist or trainer in your community. Your local animal shelters or rescue groups may offer low-cost veterinary care or training services or be able to refer you to other organizations that offer these services. 

• Cat behavior : Check out our resources for information on how to reduce stress in cats , how to stop destructive scratching , how to prevent litter box problems , how to help pets get along with each other and more.
• Dog behavior : Check out our resources for information on how to prevent chewing or digging , how to house train your dog , how to teach your dog to feel comfy in their crate , how to keep your dog from barking excessively, escaping your yard and more. 
• It may also be helpful to consult a local veterinary behaviorist or training behaviorist.   GoodPup  offers virtual training.

Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions.

Housing problems 

If you are having trouble finding animal-friendly housing, or experiencing other pet-related housing difficulties such as a nuisance complaint, check out our resources on keeping pets welcome in rental housing .

Pet allergies

See our resources on how you can have a happy, healthy life with your furry companions, even if you’re allergic to them.

Trouble affording your pet’s care

Anyone can experience an unexpected financial crisis. Don’t panic: Many national, state and local organizations provide assistance with pet food and other essentials , behavioral advice and training, and low-cost or free spay/neuter and other veterinary care . Your local animal shelters or rescue groups can also be a great resource for free or low-cost pet assistance. 

You can keep your growing family safe, happy and together. Read our simple tips for avoiding toxoplasmosis exposure during pregnancy and for preparing your pet for the new baby.

Find a new home

If you decide that rehoming your pet is the best option, keep in mind that despite the best efforts of shelters and rescues to care for their animals, your home is usually the best place for your pet while you search for an adopter.

By taking on the task of finding your pet a home, you can also reduce competition for limited space and resources in shelters or rescues. Here are some tips for placing your pet in a loving new home.

• Make your pet more attractive to potential adopters. Have your pet vaccinated and checked by a veterinarian. Making sure your pet is spayed or neutered may also make them more likely to be chosen by a new owner.
• Reach out to family and friends . Someone who already knows and likes your cat or dog may be willing to adopt them and your pet may be more comfortable with a familiar person. You will have peace of mind knowing your pet is with someone you know.
• Post about your pet on social media.  If you can’t find someone you know personally who can adopt your pet, share a photo of your pet on social media and explain the situation, making the post shareable. A friend of a friend may be able to help.
• Set up an online profile for your pet.   Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com  and  Home to Home  connect pets with people who are interested in adopting them. These free websites guide you through the rehoming process step by step, from setting up a profile to signing an adoption agreement. 
• Advertise through friends, neighbors and local veterinarians. Your personal network is the best pool of adopters for your pet. Ask your veterinarian if you can place a poster advertising your pet’s need for a new home. Place flyers promoting your pet at work, school, church and other public places you frequent. Include a good-quality photo and appealing description of your pet.
• Be transparent with potential adopters. Be prepared to share details about your pet's personality and how they get along with other pets and people. Share your pet’s favorite things and not-so-favorite things. And share any medical or behavior issues your pet is experiencing so that potential new owners will have the information they need to determine if your pet would be a good fit for their family.
• Get help from shelters and rescue groups. Some sheltering and rescue organizations may post your pet’s picture and profile on their website as a courtesy listing, while your pet stays in your home. Your local agencies may have other programs to help you rehome your pet.

As a last resort, you may be able to surrender your pet to a local shelter or rescue organization. Each agency will have a different process for surrendering a pet to their care; learn more by visiting their website or by calling ahead.

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Are you ready for your adoption home study visit?

Wondering what the visit will be like?

If you are asking yourself these questions here are some tips to make this time less stressful . 

Adoption is stressful enough, there are many decisions to be made, a ton of paperwork  to complete and reference letters to request, the last thing you need to be worried about is your home visit. 

Here is a list of things to keep in mind:

• RELAX: The social worker is not there to judge you, they are there to learn more about you and your family and also to be sure your home meets the safety guidelines set by your state of residence. The Social Worker is not just there to see your home, this is a time when you will be asked a lot of questions also, about your childhood, your marriage, your relationship with your parents and siblings, what your adoption plans are, and many more. 
• PREPARE QUESTIONS: This is a time when the social worker will help you understand the adoption process. It is also an opportunity for you to ask adoption questions and explore the type of child that will be entering your family.
• BE YOURSELF: Be honest and upfront with information.  If you have something in your past you are not proud of (an arrest, an addiction and/or treatment, etc.) be upfront and honest with your social worker from the beginning.  It can save a lot of time and show you are making an effort to be truthful and sincere with your adoption agency.  Past indiscretions do not always mean you cannot adopt, but the most important thing to remember is fully disclosing things that have happened in your past from the moment you contact your agency is highly important.
• EXPERIENCE: Take the time to learn and grow from this experience.  Most prospective adoptive parents are anxious about their home visit but then find the experience fun and exciting. The best thing you can do is relax and learn from the home visit, it will help you gain insight and understanding about adoption. 
• HOME: Here is a list of the safety areas that a social worker will be looking at in your home. Remember these vary according to your state of residence and if you are concerned about something, ask your social worker before the visit so that you are prepared when they come.
• A plan for child proofing if no children are currently in the home or child proofing (e.g. outlet covers, cabinet locks, gated stairs)
• Fire/smoke detectors on every level of the home
• Carbon monoxide detector in the home
• Potential hazards (e.g. medicines, cleaning supplies) secured and out of reach
• Railings of stairways
• Fenced, locked and alarmed pool (if any)
• Gated and protected fireplaces and/or wood stoves (if any)
• Secured firearms in a locked gun safe with ammunition securely stored and locked in a separate location
• Overall maintenance of the home inside and out
• Other potential safety concerns
• Adequate space for the addition of a child(ren) to the home
• Appropriate bedroom space (e.g. size, windows, proximity to parent(s)’ bedroom)
• Bathroom facilities
• Kitchen/dining area
• Recreational and relaxation space (e.g. living room, playroom)

If the Social Worker has any concerns regarding the safety of the home, the prospective adoptive parents will be given an opportunity to correct the safety hazard.  Once corrected, the Social Worker will return to the home to inspect the change and reassess the home’s suitability for a child(ren).   

For more information download our agency Home Study Guide by clicking on the link below:

Family Connections, Inc. is a New York State authorized adoption agency that has achieved Hague Accreditation from the Council on Accreditation.  With over twenty years of experience in adoption we would be happy to help you explore all your adoption options.   To schedule a free no-obligation consultation or talk with our staff about domestic or international adoption call 607-756-6574. Family Connections, Inc. provides home study and post-adoption supervision for families living in Buffalo, Syracuse, Albany, New York City, Long Island, Binghamton and throughout New York State.

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How the process works is pet owners, who are faced with the difficult decision of needing to rehome their pets, register and upload a pet profile on our Home To Home platform .  Once a Pet Haven administrator approves their submission, it is published on our Home To Home page. Pet owners and interested adopters will communicate directly with each other to facilitate the adoption process.

*We strongly recommend owners vet adopters and complete a home visit  to make sure their pet will be in a safe home that matches the needs of the pet.*

Questions? Contact us by email: [email protected]

*It is the responsibility of current owners to disclose any bite history and accurate health/behavior information to potential adopters. Rehoming platforms connect people looking to rehome their pets with interested adopters. The pets featured are not animals at Pet Haven and require direct communication with their caregivers through the platform itself. It is the responsibility of the individuals who express interest in a particular pet listed on these pages to obtain and verify information about the pet’s medical, behavior, and bite history. All information contained in the pets’ description page has been provided by their caregiver.

*Pet Haven does not verify the accuracy of the information provided.

Home to Home helps pets go from one home to another, without ever entering a shelter. This program helps reduce stress on owners, pets, and animal shelters, and is used in shelters all over the country. To rehome your pet, or find a pet to adopt, visit here .

How Home To Home Works

Pets listed on the Panhandle area Home to Home website are shared on the Better Together Animal Alliance Facebook page . Potential adopters will communicate directly with owners regarding their adoptable pet. Owners remain in charge of the entire rehoming process, pets stay out of the shelter avoiding stress and anxiety and adopters get to communicate with owners providing them with the opportunity to learn about their prospective new pet.

It’s free to use for both owners and adopters, and gives animals needing a new home the best of both worlds: their current owner can find the best fit, and their adopter can learn all about their personality and preferences first-hand. It’s a win-win for all!

We are excited to introduce a new module to our Home To Home program – FOSTERING!

If you are in need of an emergency foster home for your pet, please visit our Home To Home site and click “Fostering” in the navigation to create a profile.

To view our foster pets in need of a temporary home, please visit the fostering module on our Home To Home site . If you are interested in becoming a foster home for  pets in our community who need temporary housing, sign up to be a foster home here.

Need help with your pet? Call our helpline 208-265-7297 ext. 107 or email [email protected]

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