Pet Adoption Guide
Adopting a pet saves lives and often gives you an amazing companion.
Where to Adopt
Shelters
- Local municipal shelters
- County animal control
- Humane Society
- ASPCA
Rescues
- Breed-specific rescues
- Foster-based rescues
- No-kill shelters
Breeders (If Necessary)
- If specific needs require breed
- Research thoroughly
- Visit in person
- Health testing is essential
- Avoid pet stores and puppy mills
Adoption Process
- Application - Basic info about you and your home
- Home Visit - Some rescues require this
- Meet and Greet - Introduce family members and current pets
- Trial Period - Some rescues offer this
- Adoption Fee - Covers spay/neuter, vaccines, microchip
Adoption Fees Cover
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Core vaccines
- Microchip
- Deworming
- Flea treatment
- Sometimes: dental, heartworm test, other care
Shelter Pet Myths Debunked
❌ Myth: They’re all problem pets ✅ Reality: Many are given up due to landlord, move, divorce—not behavior
❌ Myth: You don’t know their history ✅ Reality: Most pets are surrendered with background info
❌ Myth: Rescue pets are older ✅ Reality: Many puppies and kittens available
❌ Myth: Shelter pets are sick ✅ Reality: Most are healthy; shelters provide care before adoption
Preparing Your Home
- Pet-proof rooms
- Remove hazards (see our pet-proofing guide)
- Purchase supplies
- Set up feeding area
- Create safe space
First Week Tips
- Give them time to decompress
- Establish routine
- Go slow with introductions
- Don’t overwhelm with visitors
- Let them hide if needed
- Patience is everything