Shelter dogs are as good as any other

Published 9:00 pm Sunday, October 5, 2003

October is Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month. If you are looking to add a dog to your family please consider adopting a homeless dog from a shelter. Shelters have a wide selection of animals from adults to puppies and if you want a purebred dog approximately 25-30 percent of shelter dogs are purebred.

Contrary to popular belief shelter dogs are not “damaged goods.” They are wonderful dogs who were given up or abandoned because they were obtained by someone with unrealistic expectations of the time, effort, care and money it requires to sustain a lifelong, wonderful relationship with their companion. Half of all dogs placed in shelters each year will be euthanized because of lack of homes.

Many shelters screen for behavior and health problems. They also spay and neuter every animal that is adopted and provide the animals with their first vaccinations, deworming and flea control. Also, many shelters microchip their dogs or offer a reduced fee for this service. If you are a animal owner you know that veterinary care can sometimes be expensive so these services can reduce a lot of new dog and new puppy costs.

Shelters, especially private shelters, have experienced adoption counselors and staff who can counsel you on what type of dog is right for your lifestyle and family.

I urge you to please consider adopting a shelter dog if you are looking for a companion. I am an animal shelter employee and am the one who euthanizes or “kills” these animals. I am fortunate to work at a “low-kill” shelter that does not euthanize animals for space or a time limit. But I know first hand that there are just not enough homes in the United States for all the homeless animals. Please adopt. The animals and I will thank you.

Lynnwood