Tips on Adopting a Shelter Dog

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month which is dedicated to finding homes for the approximately 3.3 million dogs that enter animal shelters and humane societies each year. At Vital Essentials, we’re pet ambassadors and we invite you to be one, too. By supporting local and regional animal shelters, rescues, and other organizations, we can help improve the lives of cats, dogs and other shelter animals all across the country.

Why adopt a shelter animal?

You’ll find unconditional love at your nearest animal shelter.

Dogs and cats at animal shelters have been surrendered, lost or abandoned. They have lost their family, their home and everything they have ever known, and they deserve a second chance. Pet stores and dog breeders sell cute little puppies but those puppies grow up and many of them end up in animal shelters. The cost of adopting a puppy or an adult dog from a shelter is much less than purchasing a dog from a pet store or a breeder and you will be helping break the cycle of pet overbreeding and overpopulation. You’ll also be saving an animal’s life and adopting a pet can help you be happy and healthy. 

Where to find adoptable pets?

There are few rewards as great as giving an animal a second chance at life.

Shelters, humane societies and rescues have cats and dogs for adoption and many offer visiting hours so you can view and interact with the animals. Some shelters and rescues will allow you to volunteer to walk adoptable dogs and clean cages, before you find a pet to adopt.  Some animal rescues even offer foster care, where you give a dog a home temporarily until a permanent home can be found. Pet parents who foster animals are often given the option to adopt their foster pet. The best place to find pets for adoption is online. Many rescues and shelters list their adoptable pets on websites such as Petfinder.com and Adoptapet.com. Follow your local animal shelters on social media to find out about discount dog adoptions and other adoption events to meet your new furry family member.   

How do I help my adopted pet feel at home?

For dogs, health and happiness starts with a full heart. 

Bringing a shelter pet into your life will take some patience and some adjustments but with lots of praise and love your adopted pet will settle into their new home comfortably. Head to your nearest pet store and pick up supplies such as a quality raw diet and treats and snacks to help ease the transition. Give your new pet time and space while they learn to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. You will be rewarded with a new best friend and we wish you well on your adoption. Sign up for our email list and we’ll send you coupons and special offers to share with your newly adopted pet. Be sure to check out our other blog posts for helpful pet care tips and tricks. 

For more information on Vital Essentials and our full product line, follow us on TikTok and Instagram. And if you have any questions, be sure to check out our FAQ page for answers. Together, we can ensure your pet gets the proper nutrition they deserve.