October is Adopt A Shelter Dog Month.  The American Humane Association https://www.americanhumane.org/about-us/ founded Adopt A Dog Month in 1981.  This was in response to the increasing number of dogs and puppies that were entering shelters every year.  Shelters and rescues need our help now more then ever.  So many dogs that were adopted during the pandemic are now being returned to shelters and rescues.  Shelters are having to turn away many “rehome” situations.  Imagine the confusion of these poor dogs who have lived in a warm, loving home for a year or more, only to be dumped back at the shelter.  They are confused and sad.

There are many great reasons to adopt a dog.  Having a pet, in general, helps lower anxiety and stress levels.  Having a dog is also a great excuse/reason to get outside, get some fresh air, exercise and meet other dog owners in your neighborhood, at the dog park or at the dog beach.  Also, most shelter dogs come “ready to go”, meaning they are already spayed or neutered, are up to date on vaccinations and microchipped.  Many of them have already lived in a home environment so they may be housetrained and know basic commands, or as I call it, have good manners.

And one last very important point, most of these dogs find themselves at a shelter or rescue through no fault of their own.  Most of the time the owners have to relinquish the pet because of financial constraints, changes in housing situations, divorce, loss of job, relocation factors, things of that nature.  https://bestfriends.org/

Here are 8 tips to help you find the best fit in your furry best friend:

1. Keep your lifestyle in mind.   If you are an athletic type who likes to get out and walk, jog, hike with your dog then look for a companion that is considered “high-energy”.  Don’t overlook the older dog-they can still have plenty of energy to keep up with you.  On the other hand, if you prefer lounging on the couch, reading or binge-watching TV, a senior dog or small breed dog may be the right choice for you.
2. Ask the shelter team to help you.  Let them know what you are looking for in a furry companion.  Also be sure to tell them about any other pets you may have in the home, such as pocket pets, cats, other dogs, birds.   Also keep in mind any friends pets who come to visit that they would be interacting with.  You want to be sure your new furry friend gets along with these pets also.  The shelter workers may have inside information about how your potential dog interacts with other dogs or species.
3. How much affection are you wanting from your pet.  Some people love dog kisses, while others not so much.  Do you want your dog to sleep with you and cuddle on the couch or would you prefer to sleep alone?  Your interactions at the shelter can indicate just how much of a cuddle bug or how independent your potential dog may be.
4. Bring the kids.  If you have children, be sure to bring them with you and see how everyone interacts together.  Ask the shelter staff which dogs have previously lived with families and/or small children if that applies to your family.
5. Keep an open mind.  Going to the shelter or rescue with an idea of what you want your dog to look like or even a specific breed may keep you from finding the best fit.  Don’t overlook the other dogs.  They may be a better fit for your lifestyle then what you thought on the way in.
6. Find out about the medical history of a dog.  If you can, especially if adopting an older dog.  They may have ongoing health issues that require additional funds or additional time to treat on an ongoing basis.  Know whether this is something you can or want to commit to before setting out on your search.
7. Fostering as an option.  Many shelters will allow a potential adopter to “try out” a dog for a few days or weeks before a final commitment is made.  Ask about the shelter or rescues “return policy”.  Most want to be made aware if an adoption is not working out and will gladly accept the dog returned to them.  They only want the best for the dogs in their care so be sure to inquire about their policies.
8. Do decide beforehand if you want a puppy, adolescent or older dog.  Don’t want to potty train a puppy or can’t handle a big, strong dog?  Knowing your limitations beforehand is of great import. This helps narrow down your selection.

And finally

Please keep in mind that you may have to visit several shelters multiple times to find your perfect match.  Don’t rush it, this is a lifelong commitment and should be treated as such.

Can you find room in your heart and home to rescue a dog in need?