Being a forever home for a shelter pet in need can be endlessly rewarding, but it can also be challenging.
On Saturday, local and nationwide animal shelters will waive their adoption fees for 'Clear the Shelters Day' -- an effort to ramp up adoptions and clear out overcrowded facilities.
READY TO ADOPT? Local shelters will be offering pet adoption deals this weekend in order to 'Clear The Shelters,' a nationwide effort to find forever homes for shelter animals. What do you want to know about adopting a shelter pet?
Posted by ABC10 on Thursday, July 21, 2016
Sacramento County's Bradshaw Animal Shelter has more than 400 animals in its care: 147 dogs, 239 cats and 22 other types of animals (snakes, birds, rabbits, a horse and chickens).
Another 551 Bradshaw animals are in foster care. Sacramento County spokesperson Janna Haynes said the foster care program is vital in managing shelter resources and keeping facilities healthy.
As you can guess, pit bulls make up a lot of the dogs waiting for forever homes. Sacramento County offers socialization and obedience training to help you choose a dog who fits your lifestyle.
WANT TO HELP 'CLEAR THE SHELTERS?'
For those who want to become dog parents, here's the ASPCA's guide for understanding canine personalities and meeting their needs:
Couch Potato: Like the easy life? Then I’m the perfect match for you. I’m a relaxed, laid-back kind of dog who enjoys long naps, watching movies, curling up on laps, and walking very short distances from the couch to the food bowl and back. (Internally motivated)
Constant Companion: Looking for an emotionally secure, mutually satisfying, low maintenance relationship? I am all you need. Let me sit at your feet, walk by your side, and I’ll be your devoted companion forever. (Socially motivated)
Teacher’s Pet: I’ve got the whole package — smart, fuzzy, four legs, love to learn and live to please. Go ahead, teach mee anything. Sit, stay, balance your checkbook, I can do it all. Keep me entertained and I’ll be yours forever. (Externally motivated)
Wallflower: Shy yet charming canine searching for patient owner with relaxed lifestyle. Looking for gentle guidance to help me come out of my shell. Treat me sweet and kind and I’ll blossom. (Internally motivated)
Busy Bee: I’m a naturally playful, curious, and trusting canine. Take me for a big walk every day; give me something to do. After my job’s done, I’ll curl up in front of the fire with you in the evenings. (Externally motivated)
Goofball: I’m a fun-loving, happy-all-the-time, glass-is-half-full kind of dog looking for someone who loves to laugh and play around. Must have a great sense of humor and some time to spend with me. I’m a dog on a mission to please you. (Socially motivated)
Life of the Party: I think everything is fun, interesting and meant for play, especially you. Anything you do, I’ll want to do too. With my own brand of surprises, life with me will keep you constantly on your toes, and the fun is guaranteed. (Socially motivated)
Go-Getter: Want to get more exercise? Action is my middle name. My “Let’s GO!” lifestyle will keep you motivated to get outside and move. I’ve got tons of energy; and just like the sun, I’m burning and working 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I’ll run for miles, chase a ball for hours, and still want to play at the end of the day. (Externally motivated)
Free Spirit: Intelligent, independent, confident and clever, I prefer making my own decisions but will listen to you if you make a good case. We’re partners in this adventure. Treat me like one and we’ll both live happily ever after. (Internally motivated)
ARE YOU A CAT PERSON?
CLICK HERE to learn how to match up with the perfect cat companion.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
Before adopting, Sacramento County suggests considering...
- How much time do you have to spend with a pet daily?
- Do you have the patience to lovingly train, housetrain, feed and walk a pet?
- Have you considered the cost of food, shots, veterinarian visits, licensing and more? Additional information about owning a pet.
- Are you at least 18 years of age? If you are renting, do you live where pets are accepted? View list of rental properties that accept pets.
Also, kittens and puppies are cute -- but they're not ideal for every household. They require a lot of training and socialization. CLICK HERE to learn more about meeting your best match.
