What Can a Shelter Dog Bring to Your Life?

Photo:  Petfinder 

 Animal shelters all over the country have dogs of every type, size, age and personality waiting for loving homes.  In celebration of the American Humane Association's national Adopt-A-Dog Month this October, the AHA asks prospective pet owners the question:  What can an adopted dog bring to your life?

According to the AHA, there are as many responses to that question as there are dogs in this world.  Whether you want an exercise buddy, a best friend for your child, a partner in agility competitions, a constant companion for an aging parent or simply a fuzzy face to greet you after a hard day at work, an adopted dog can be all of these and more.  Adopt-A-Dog Month is the perfect time for people to adopt a shelter dog and experience the joy of finding their own answers to that questions.

If you're thinking about bringing an adopted dog into your family, here are some things to consider:

•  Like children, dogs are completely dependent on their owners for all their needs � food, water, medical attention, exercise, shelter and, most important, companionship. But unlike children, dogs will never learn to pour themselves a drink, fix breakfast or clean up after themselves. Opening your home to a dog can be highly rewarding, as long as you understand and accept the daily responsibilities and routines that come with owning a dog.

• � The qualities and personality you want in a dog are more important than size and appearance. For example, an older shepherd mix might do better than an energetic terrier in an apartment. Very often the pet that has the characteristics you�re looking for will come in an unexpected package.

For more tips on dog adoption, behavior and care, or to share your own dog adoption story, visit American Humane Association�s online Adoption Center at www.americanhumane.org/aadm.

Visit Petfinder to find your new best friend: