October is... National Adopt-a-Dog Month!

Be a Hero and Adopt a Dog in Need of a Forever Home! 

Be a hero, and adopt a dog this month!

Dogs are our friends, companions, and often our heroes. That is why October is such a special month, it’s a chance to pay it forward to our canine friends. Since 1981, American Humane Association has encouraged animal lovers to repay the favor by adopting a dog from a local shelter or rescue group during the annual “Adopt-a-Dog-Month.” It is that time of the year again, and it’s a chance for you to be a hero and adopt a dog in need of a forever home.  

Sadly, an estimated 3 to 4 million dogs wait in shelters every year hoping for the loving, forever home they deserve.  And each year, approximately 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized because they have no family to take them in. In 2016 alone, 56% of dogs in U.S. shelters were euthanized. These tragic statistics could become even more harrowing given the current coronavirus crisis. Many families are struggling financially and had no choice but to relinquish their beloved family pet to a shelter, meanwhile many shelters are becoming overpopulated.  ​

Be a hero, and adopt a dog this month!

You’ll be saving his/her life, while also providing a space at the shelter for another animal in need! These are strange times, and having a furry companion during these periods of isolation can be very positive for mental health. As well as physical health being improved from more walking and other outings with your pet. A canine companion could be just the thing to lift spirits until life resumes normalcy. And what better time as many of us continue to work or attend school remotely.   ​

Not ready to adopt? There are other ways you can help!

Aside from adopting a dog, there are also a few other ways to celebrate adopt a dog month: 

-Spay or neuter your dog 
It is very important  to make sure your pet is spayed or neutered. This prevents the possibility of unexpected, and potentially unwanted puppies. Spayed and neutered pets have been show to lead longer, healthier lives and have fewer of certain behavioral problems than animals who have not been fixed.  

-ID your pet  
Having proper identification for your pet is also a great way to be sure your pet is returned to you on the chance you guys get separated. Having both a microchip and i.d. tag on the collar helps ensure your pet doesn’t wind up for adoption or worse.  

​-Support your local shelter 
Show the pets at your local shelter or rescue group that you care by donating supplies, money, or even time! Most shelters or groups are always in need of extra supplies like leashes, pet food, bowls, beds and toys. Call your local shelter or rescue group to see how you can help!