Adopting a pet saves a life.
Most local animal shelters are either a nonprofit or operated and funded by the government. Many shelters are no-kill, meaning they keep the animal until it is adopted. These shelters are always on the lookout for potential adopters, but keep in mind they have criteria that potential adopters must meet.
Personal Information
Personal information such as proof of age ensures that the adopter is not attempting to circumvent adoption criteria. This means the shelter is guaranteed the animal is going to a good home and won't return to the shelter.
Most shelters require that adopters be 18 years of age but this can vary depending on the type of adoption agency. Some agencies are private and breed- or species-specific. Shelters also require proof of address. If you rent, bring a letter from your landlord stating approval of pet ownership. If you own your home, bring proof of ownership.
Questionnaire
You may be asked to fill out a questionnaire. This helps shelter staff get a sense of the type of animal that will suit your lifestyle. Questions like experience with animals, your lifestyle, work schedule and your expectations of your pet help staff match you with an animal that will fit into your home with minimal stress to you or the animal.
Contracts
Some private adoption agencies require that you sign a contract. Make sure to carefully read the conditions set out in the contract. Contracts are agreements that may include statements such as: the animal will be a family pet only, will be properly contained (inside the house with yard access), you will ensure proper veterinary care, the animal will be spayed or neutered, the animal will wear identification tags and in the event you cannot keep the animal, it will be returned to the agency.
Contracts can vary depending on the agency and type of animal you are adopting.
Additional Requirements
Shelters rarely accept same-day adoptions. They prefer that you and your family and current pets meet with the desired animal. This helps prevent an impulse adoption and allows you to evaluate how you and your potential pet get along.
Shelters won't adopt a pet out as a gift. They may have gift certificates available, but the recipient must go through the adoption approval process.
Fees must be presented after the adoption has been approved. Fees can range from under $100 to more than $300 depending on the breed and species of animal. The fee usually includes a guarantee that the animal has been examined by a veterinarian and is healthy and free of disease. It may include spay or neuter before or after adoption.
Considerations
Many animals that end up in a shelter are not there because they are in poor condition or bad. Often an owner's lifestyle change results in the animal being taken to the shelter. When you decide to adopt, consider your lifestyle and research suitable breeds. There are many private shelters that are dedicated to a specific breed, and local shelters often have purebred animals.
Adopting an animal requires a lifetime commitment. Avoid the impulse to take that cute puppy or kitten home, and consider if you are ready to make a commitment to this animal. The initial cost of adoption may be small, but food, vet care and pet supplies can add up over a year.
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