Facts on Adopting a Pet

Many purebred and mixed breed dogs and cats are brought into local animal shelters around the United States each day. According to Pets.com, it is estimated that about 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized or put to sleep annually because of the lack of shelter space and resources. If you are considering adopting a shelter animal, learn some facts about the process.

  1. Shelter Statistics

    • The Humane Society of the United States estimates that thousands of dogs and cats are awaiting new homes. Contrary to what some think, animals in shelters do not have anything wrong with them. Most are "owner surrenders," pets that have been brought in by their owners because of divorce, foreclosure, relocation, remarriage and other circumstances.

    Available Breeds

    • If you have your heart set on a specific breed or a popular hybrid, don't automatically assume that adoption from a shelter or a rescue group isn't right for you. Approximately 25 to 30 percent of dogs brought to shelters every year are purebred, according to adoptapet.com. Even if your local shelter doesn't have the breed that you are seeking, it will be able to put you in touch with a rescue group that specializes in rescuing your breed.

    Adoption Fees

    • Adoption fees for shelter pets range from approximately $30 for seniors to $65 for puppies and kittens as of 2010. Included in this adoption fee are vaccinations, spaying and neutering fees, a health assessment, license fees for a year and sometimes a free bag of pet food.

    Animal Background Information

    • When you purchase a puppy or kitten from a breeder or a pet store, you are essentially getting an animal with little to no documented health and behavior history. Adult animals from shelters usually come with some history from their previous owners. Puppies and kittens that are adopted from shelters have had their behavior and health professionally assessed by shelter workers and veterinarians.

    Other Considerations

    • When you adopt from a shelter or rescue group, you are saving a life and, at the same time, helping to prevent animal overpopulation caused by careless breeders.