Pet Adoption

Pet adoption usually refers to the process of taking guardianship of and responsibility for a pet that a previous owner has abandoned or otherwise abdicated responsibility for. Common sources are:

  • Animal shelters, in the case of dogs also known as dog pounds
  • Rescue groups
  • Pets out of captivity without identification, and which remain unclaimed by any owner
  • Advertisements placed by individuals who are trying to find a new home for their pet
  • Pets that have been abused or neglected and have been confiscated from the offending owner
  • A fast growing source is online pet adoption through not-for-profit websites such as petfinder.com. Public service sites such as these have searchable databases of pets, maintained by thousands of animals shelters, and are searchable by the public.

Guide for a first time dog owner

Written by John J. Kirsch.

Dog ownership is a responsibility that is not to be taken mildly. Taking in a pooch of your own calls for long term financial and emotional commitment. To have a dog as your companion, you have to be ready in taking the time and effort in fulfilling your responsibilities toward your pet. Compatibility is likewise something that you have to think about. You have to pick one that best suits the type of life you live. In choosing a breed, you have to give some thought to the qualities you'd like in a pet. The attributes that you might want to regard are size, energy level, temperament, ability to be trained, and grooming needs.

What are different puppy personalities?

Written by Walton Hong.

Even though it's untrue that certain dog breeds are bred to be ferocious, mean-spirited or overly protective, it's accurate to say that various dog breeds naturally have varying personality traits, just as each human has a different personality than the next. When thinking about which breed of puppy to purchase or adopt, it is important to consider their personality beforehand. Yes, it sounds silly that a pup's personality might be so essential, but the truth is it can make a world of difference.

Questions to Ask: Asking a few questions of yourself and the puppy breed you are thinking about can be effective in determining whether or not you're a match. A few of the more essential questions consist of: Do you have kids? Do you live in an apartment? Do you have the energy/time for a puppy who needs lots of exercise? Do you prefer a lap dog or play dog? Can you deal with a high energy puppy?

Know the traits and breeds of the dog before you adopt them

Written by Blake Jacobs.

To have a pet dog is not an easy decision within the family. Before anybody can adopt a dog, they must consider many factors such as their budget, their space in the houses, their financial stability, their patience, their lifestyle and many more. To have a dog can be associated in having another part of the family just like when you have a new brother or sister. It is a must that you give their most basic need as well as health-related needs and sociological needs. It is also vital for the family to pick the best breed that is okay for everybody.

Before you go to the pet shop, you should already have an idea about the breed that you would like to have. The pet shop owner might end up showing you so many breeds to choose from, and you might just be confused once you see them. On that case, you might just end up buying a dog that you do not want. As we have mentioned, it is also a must to consider the members of the family when adopting a dog. For example if we have children, the dog breed that we should choose child-friendly. In this article, we will examine some dog breeds so that we can have an idea about them.

Research Provides Insight to Motivators, Barriers for Pet Adoption and Spay/Neuter

Written by PetSmart Charities®.

PetSmart Charities® Shares Research Data That "Very Accurately" Reflects National Attitudes About Pets -- and Could Help Shelters and Animal-Welfare Groups Save Even More Lives

PHOENIX, AZ--(Marketwire - January 12, 2010) - Most Americans say they've heard about the plight of homeless pets, yet grossly underestimate the size and scope of the problem, as well as the number of dogs and cats who must be put to death in U.S. shelters every year. This, according to the findings of a comprehensive new survey commissioned by PetSmart Charities and conducted online by Ipsos Marketing among 2,000 U.S. adults and an additional 1,000 adults who acquired a dog or a cat in the past year.

Adoption: Why dog lovers should adopt?

Written by Christopher Durin.

If you have been thinking of getting a pet (or another pet), then you should consider adopting a dog. There are many misconceptions about dog adoption. The most prevalent is that dogs coming from shelters are unstable and will not be able to adjust living with human beings or other dogs. This is rooted on the idea that most dogs from shelters were maltreated by their previous owners or were abandoned at a young age that they no longer know how to interact with humans. Another reason why some people don’t opt for dog adoption is that they believe dogs coming from shelters are not healthy.

How just one person can make a difference...

Written by Jennifer Hague.

This journey of mine began when I started restoring photos about 5 years ago. I found joy in repairing memories that appeared beyond hope at first glance. I eventually expanded my restoration business to offer photography services as well, quickly learning that dog photography is my ultimate passion. 

My heart is especially happy when I am documenting our furry friends and their innocent spirit, unconditional love and unique personalities. I have been an

BarkleyAndPawsI recently visited Animal Haven in Merriam KS and photographed some very precious doggies up for adoption. I have always known since I was a little girl that I wanted to work with dogs, but it wasn't until I began my photography ventures, that the plan for my life really became clear to me. Dog photography is my passion, my love, my joy. I remember always wanting to volunteer at an animal shelter, knowing deep in my heart that I wanted to help, but I just never had the courage to do so. I decided recently it was time for me to offer my photography services complimentary to animal shelters, in hopes that I could portray each dogs true soul for the world to see. Even if my photos just speak to one person and leads them to adopt, it is worth every ounce of my time.animal lover my entire life, growing up with Lhasa Apso's throughout my childhood. I now have a Miniature Schnauzer, Remington, who is my furry best friend and daily inspiration. I am also an avid supporter of animal rescue organizations and no-kill shelters and will offer my photography services complimentary to any local organization who needs assistance photographing their animals up for adoption.

I knew it would be incredibly hard to visit a shelter and be faced with the harsh reality of abandoned dogs. But, it was even harder than I imagined. There were so many dogs just crying for attention and love. They all deserve a nice warm home, full of hugs and kisses. It broke my heart, but I had to put those feelings aside for a moment and give my complete attention to the select doggies that desperately needed their photos taken. It is hard to put into words the warmth I felt in my heart when I knew that my photographs might be the answer for these doggies to find forever homes. The act of helping in this way brought me so much joy and I will continue offering my assistance to Animal Haven and any other shelter that needs assistance with photographing animals.

"He is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion." - Anonymous