There’s a special pet holiday coming up. April 30th is Adopt A Shelter Pet Day! If you are ready to bring a new pet into your life, please consider going to a shelter. A local Eau Claire, WI vet offers some advice on adopting a shelter pet below.
The Plight Of Shelter Pets
There are some very sad statistics concerning animal shelters. According to the ASPCA, about 6.5 million animals go into shelters each year here in the US. Roughly half are dogs, and most of the other half are cats. The good news is that this number is dropping: in 2011, it was about 7.2 million animals. Unfortunately, many of these pets never leave the shelters. About 1.5 million are euthanized each year. Another 3.2 million pets are adopted, while about 710,000 are reunited with their owners.
Benefits of Going To A Shelter
There are many reasons to get your new pet from a shelter. First and foremost, you’ll be giving that one lucky dog or cat a second chance at happiness. You’ll be able to pick from a variety of adorable furry faces, and spend some time with Fido or Fluffy before deciding. You may also be able to find out a bit about your new buddy’s prior history, which can help you gauge whether they are a good match for your household or not. Plus, going to a shelter is often cheaper than adopting from a breeder or pet store. Last but not least, you’ll know that your money is helping promote good animal welfare, by helping the shelter care for their other wards.
Tips
When you’re ready to adopt, don’t overlook the less desirable pets. Adopting that dog or cat no one wanted may turn out to be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made!
Settling In
You’ll need to pick up a few things before bringing your new pet home. Your list should include toys, treats, bedding, dishes, grooming supplies, and food. Fluffy will need a litterbox, litter, and some kitty furniture, while Fido will need a leash and a good collar or harness. If you have other pets, put these things in a quiet back room at first, so you can introduce your furry pals slowly.
Please contact us, your local Eau Claire, WI vet clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!
