How to Find a Dog to Adopt in Pennsylvania

If you are looking for a new four legged friend, adopting a dog is a great alternative to buying one from a breeder. It is even more important to look for alternatives to breeders if you live in Pennsylvania, since the state is well known for its large number of puppy mills. By choosing to adopt a dog you can save a life and gain a wonderful lifelong companion.

Instructions

    • 1

      Pick up your local telephone directory and look for humane societies and shelters. There are shelters in every county in Pennsylvania, and there are also a number of other organizations that take in unwanted dogs and adopt them to loving homes.

    • 2

      Log on to the internet and look for adoption organizations. If you want a particular breed, look for a breed specific rescue program and get on their waiting list. Breed rescue organizations constantly scour local shelters for their chosen breed, then foster those dogs until they can be adopted to approved homes.

    • 3

      Visit local pet stores in your area. Many Pennsylvania pet stores have teamed up with local humane organizations to present dogs and cats for adoption. Many Petsmart stores, for instance, have a room set aside for adoptable animals.

    • 4

      Contact the humane society or organization from whom you want to adopt and complete an application form. You will need to provide your name and address, the type of residence you have, i.e. apartment or home, and information about your current animals and your vet.

    • 5

      Wait for the application to be approved and make an appointment to adopt your dog. The adoption organization should provide you with a list of things you need to bring, including a car carrier, collar and leash.