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A lot of people shy away from adopting dogs from a shelter
because they "don't want someone else's problem." That's
unfortunate, because some of the best dogs are at the dog pound
or humane society.
Animal trainers for the movies and TV often visit their local
shelter because they've figured it out. Many dogs are sent to a
shelter just because their previous owner bought the wrong kind
of puppy, or couldn't give their intelligent dog enough
exercise and mental stimulation to keep them out of trouble.
Other dog trainers also check the shelters regularly and find
wonderful canine "employees" that go to work finding drugs for
the border patrol, acting as ears for their hearing impaired
owners, and providing hours of loving canine therapy in nursing
homes.
And, of course, millions of loving, loyal dog pound dogs have
found their way into the hearts and homes of people just like
you. Many happy dog owners believe they found the perfect dog
for their family at the local Humane Society.
Here are just a few of the reasons why adopting a dog instead
of a puppy might be a good choice for you:
- Are you a runner, a jogger, or a couch-potato who should be
walking around the block occasionally? If you adopt a dog from
your local animal shelter you'll have an instant exercise
partner who won't allow any excuses.
Recent research shows that pairing up with a pooch can help
both of you stay committed to an exercise program, even if
you've always given up in the past.
- If you adopt a dog, you'll have an instant friend. A full-grown
dog will give you the loyalty and love you're looking for as
soon as you bring her home. In fact, if you take the time to
take your new adopted dog for a nice long walk before you ever
go inside your house, she'll be totally bonded to you by the
time you get back home.
- Puppies need to be housebroken, but most (though not all) of
the dogs in the animal shelter are already housetrained and
ready to learn your rules. Some adjustments may be needed, but
if you choose the right adult dog you'll skip the most
destructive phases of her puppy-hood.
- Puppies are always cute and loveable, but they sometimes grow
into dogs with traits you don't care for. Adult dogs have their
personalities and characteristics already formed, so what you
see is what you get.
Most shelters do test their dogs to make sure they only release
people-oriented, non-aggressive, non-biting dogs. Not all
shelters test their dogs, however, and the variation in methods
is fairly wide.
Even if they don't test the dogs, you can still get a very good
idea of the dog's personality and traits by taking it out to the
exercise yard and giving it an opportunity to get to know you.
Many urban Humane Societies see the same breeds of dogs over
and over again, because these breeds are currently popular but
perhaps not well suited to living in a house where the adults
are away from home all day. This is certainly true of the many
Labs, which tend to dig and chew when left alone too long, and
the Rottweilers and Pit Bulls, whose intelligence and loyalty
have little room for expression if they're chained up in the
back yard.
Border Collies are often left at the pound by owners who didn't
realize that a smart dog can be a pain in the neck if you don't
keep them occupied for many hours a day. These dogs may have
been problems for their former owners, but if you can give them
the time and attention they need, they will give you years of
love and loyalty.
Other dogs are surrendered to the shelter because their owners
have financial difficulties and need to move to an apartment
that doesn't allow dogs. Others had loving owners who passed
away or moved to a nursing home. If you adopt one of these
dogs, you will be amazed at how quickly they become a permanent
member of your family.
About The Author: If you are thinking about adopting a dog,
http://Older-Dog.com is filled with advice to help you choose
the perfect dog for your family. Articles include info on
different personalities and breeds, how to train your new dog,
and how to find the perfect dog to adopt. Visit at
www.older-dog.com
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