The American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, is urging animal lovers to be a hero to dogs, young and old, this Adopt-A-Dog Month. Since 1981, American Humane has celebrated Adopt-a-Dog Month each October to help the millions of dogs waiting in overcrowded shelters for the loving, forever homes that they deserve. American Humane has an office in Palm Beach.
Throughout October, the public can visit AmericanHumane.org or follow American Humane’s social media channels to find resources and advice on preparing a home for a new canine companion. Pet owners are also encouraged to post their adoption stories to their own social media, tagging @AmericanHumane and using #AdoptADogMonth, to share how they found their perfect rescue or shelter pup and inspiring others to adopt a new furry friend of their own.
“For thousands of years, dogs have been our best friends, our protectors and often our personal heroes, improving and even saving our lives,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane, and a South Florida resident. “That is why, each October, we encourage people to repay the favor by adopting a dog from a local shelter or rescue group. If you are able, open your heart and your home, and be a hero for a pup in need.”
Here are a variety of ways to celebrate Adopt-A-Dog Month:
Adopt from a shelter or rescue group:
When you are ready to open your heart and home to a new best friend, adopt from your local animal shelter or rescue group. Talk with shelter staff to find the perfect dog for you and your lifestyle, and remember that older dogs make excellent pets, too.
Spay or neuter your dog:
Have your dog spayed or neutered, thus preventing the possibility of unexpected, and potentially unwanted, puppies. Spayed and neutered animals have been shown to lead longer, healthier lives and have fewer of certain behavioral problems than animals who have not been spayed or neutered.
ID your pet:
By putting identification on your dog, either in the form of a tag, a microchip or both, you will reduce the possibility that your pet will become one of the presumably “homeless” dogs that end up at your local shelter. Only 15-20 percent of dogs who enter a shelter without ID tags or microchips are reunited with their owners.
Support your local shelter:
Show the pets at your local shelter or rescue group that you care by donating time, money or supplies like pet food, leashes, beds, and toys. Call the shelter to see what supplies or services are needed most. Even the smallest effort can make a difference.
Consider adopting a senior dog:
There is a great need to provide safe, loving homes for the thousands of older pets who often face the highest risk in animal shelters. Many potential pet adopters overlook senior animals — but there are so many reasons why dogs over the age of six or seven make ideal furry family members and friends: They tend to be less rambunctious than younger dogs; they’re often already house-trained; they’re a great fit for people with busy lifestyles; they’re so grateful for a second chance and will give you lots of love and thanks.
To learn more, visit americanhumane.org/initiative/adopt-a-dog-month.
