In this modern age, we have devices to complete all our work. It's basically a hassle free environment. The world has become a smaller place; but distances between people have increased. People feel they have everything yet they crave for a companion who can give them unconditional love and care. So how about bringing that close companion home to fill up that void people feel everyday? How about adopting a dog then?

It is always a delightful experience to adopt a dog and welcome a new member into your family. Dogs are wonderful as pets, they are stress busters. Normally, people purchase dogs from pet shops. Before going to a nearby pet shop read this article and try to adopt a dog from a shelter or a pound.

Approximately 4 million dogs are killed each year due to overpopulation of their breed. About 25 to 30% dogs which are in dog shelters or pounds are purebred. The others are a bunch of lovely dog breeds waiting to be your perfect friend. Shelter dogs are wonderful companions.

Humane societies and animal rescue workers guide people who are willing to adopt dogs from pounds and shelters. Adoption saves lives; don't think that shelters have badly bred dogs. These wonderful animals are just victims of bad circumstances and irresponsible owners.

Adopting Dogs from Shelters
  • Find out a local dog shelter in your block. Search the Internet or the telephone book for the country animal control office.
  • Make an appointment with the dog shelter to visit the dogs. Try to visit the dog shelter in person to have a clearer picture. See how the dog behaves in his kennel or shelter.
  • Interact with the volunteer or the staff members, discuss with them your lifestyle so that they can give you a suitable advice on dog adoption.
  • Another advantage of adopting dogs from shelters is that the fees are usually much less than the price of a dog bought form a pet shop.
  • Some people have their hearts set on small dogs and puppies; Both of them are an ideal choice as a pet for your children.
  • Just remember one thing; adopting small dogs and puppies is a big responsibility. They require constant attention and care. Small dogs like chihuahua, poodles and puppies can also be found in these shelters.
  • German Shepherd puppies found in the shelters are a favorite among kids.
  • Elderly people can look for grown up dogs who are generally quite calm.
How long does it take to Adopt a Dog?

So after knowing about the adoption of the dog, let's check out how long does it take to do so. Well, it doesn't take long to adopt a dog from the pound or shelter. It entirely depends upon you, once you have set your heart on the cute animal, just ask them about the adoption policies, have a discussion with the staff members. You can take your new family member home on the same day! Do bring in your kids along; so that they can interact with the dog and get familiar with it. Do inquire about the medical history (vaccinations, worming, spraying or neutering) of the dog and write down the details of the veterinary care the dog has received before adoption. Then pay the respective dues of buying and vaccination. Some dog shelters have a routine check every month to see how well are you adjusting with your dog and vice versa. Collect the receipt from the office, slip on the collar around your dog's neck and feel proud of having saved an innocent life.

Cost of Adopting a Dog

It doesn't cost much to save the life of a dog. The adoption fees to adopt a dog from the shelter vary from $10 to $80. Vaccination and initial medical expenses cost up to $100 depending on the medical history of the dog.

Adopting a dog and just bringing it home is not enough. Apart from knowing how to adopt a dog, you should also know how to care for it. As the dog is new to your home, it is very necessary that the dog familiarizes with your surroundings. Keep interacting with the dog, try to understand its needs.

Give a dog, a loving home and you'll get love in return. The dog can fill the void in your life. If you adopt with real care and love you will gain much more in return. The happiness and satisfaction which you get is immense. Adopt a dog now. Enrich a Life!