October Is Adopt A Shelter Dog Month

October is adopt a shelter dog month, and yes, that means yet another post on pets from me. ;) While I know many of you aren't able to currently add another furry member to your family, if you are, I hope you'll look to adopt, not buy, that furry family.

While adopting from the shelter isn't usually free (some shelters are running some nearly free promos, so do check with yours!), you're sure that the dog or cat you're adopting has been spayed or neutered, along with many of the shots needed. If you are planning to adopt off of Craigslist for free, you'll need to take the cost of the vet visit into consideration when you look to the overall picture.

If you're absolutely terrified of adopting from the shelter because you're afraid you're going to end up with Cujo, an alternative is to adopt from a rescue group instead. Many rescue groups help get out dogs, cats, and even small animals like rabbits and chickens (yes, really!) from the shelter before it's too late. These pets are then taken to the vet to be sure of their health, and brought into foster homes where they are exposed to day to day life. These awesome foster parents can tell if a dog is great with other cats, for instance, or if there is an obedience issue that needs to be worked on. Because it's all done through a rescue group, they are not adopted out until those obedience issues have been taken care of, and the animal is in good health. Yes, it could cost you more than adopting straight from the shelter, but rescue groups are usually pretty great at what they do, and you'll most likely end up with a fur-ever member of your family!

And for those with no room at the inn, as we call it in our family, if you can help out your local shelter instead, they'll be just as thrilled! Almost all shelters currently need donations like wet and dry foods, which can sometimes be easily bought at great prices thanks to coupons. They can always use blankets and towels, so these pets have something soft and warm to snuggle in. (Consider donating these to your shelter instead of places like Goodwill) And of course, your time is ALWAYS appreciated! Cats need snuggles, and dogs need walks - this is all done with the help of volunteers like you and me!

Pssst - local folks! PAWS is celebrating Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog month at with a reduced adoption fee of just $50 for all adult dogs that are 7 years and older. Visit their website to peek and see if your new furry friend is waiting for you!