Dogs from animal shelters usually make wonderful and gracious companions. You are doing a favor to both of you when making the choice to adopt since you’re saving a life and gaining a life-long friend in return.

There are all sorts of dogs available at animal shelters, such as puppies that have been surrendered because they are unwanted litters; dogs that have been rescued due to abuse or neglect; and dogs that have been turned over because they can no longer be taken care of. Most of the dogs that are found at shelters are there because of the latter reason.

Sadly, too many people realize too late that they cannot or will not take care of a dog. Sometimes, they have children and don’t want the dog around them. Sometimes, they work too much and don’t have the time for the dog. Sometimes, they need to relocate to a place where dogs are not welcome, and sometimes, they just get too elderly or unhealthy to keep up with all of the dog’s needs. Whatever the case may be, all shelter dogs are worthy of a second chance and by adopting, you are giving it to them.

Things to Consider

Be fair to both of you. If you don’t feel that you are completely ready to make this big addition to your life, then don’t jump into it. A dog is a huge responsibility that will likely be a part of your life for over a decade! When choosing a shelter dog, he doesn’t deserve to find a new family just to be abandoned again.

Many shelter dogs are mixed-breeds. If you don’t have any particular breed of dog in mind, this may be fine for you. However, mutts can change a lot and that tiny, curly-haired puppy could easily turn into a 90-pound shaggy beast in a few short months. If the idea of uncertainty scares you, you might want to consider a purebred dog or a dog that is already grown.

Finally, be sure that you are making as informed of a decision as you possibly can. Talk to lots of shelter workers to hear about their experiences with the dog you like. If your dog was surrendered voluntarily, chances are good that there’s a lot of information about his health, habits, and personality. Try to avoid making any snap-decisions based on impulse; puppies have a way of doing this to you. You want to be absolutely sure that your new dog will be a good fit for your family for the rest of his life.