How to Celebrate "Adopt a Shelter Dog Month" This October

This October, it's time to give back to the furry friends who bring so much into our lives. Join us in recognizing Adopt a Shelter Dog Month – an annual event that celebrates the bond between humans and their four-legged companions.

During this month, thousands of shelter dogs are given new homes through adoption events and outreach initiatives around the country. 

Whether you’re already a dog owner or you’re looking to adopt a pup of your own, there are ways to get involved with this important cause and make a difference!

Read on for tips about how you can celebrate Adopt A Shelter Dog Month this year. 

History of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Did you know that October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month? This special month was created to raise awareness about the importance of adopting dogs from shelters and giving them a forever home.

The idea for this month came from Caroline Earl White, who started the first-ever shelter in Philadelphia in the 1800s. Her dedication to helping animals inspired others to do the same, and in 1981 the American Humane Association began to celebrate national adopt a shelter dog month every October.

By adopting a shelter dog, not only do you give them a second chance at a happy life, but you also free up space in the shelter for another animal to receive the love and care they deserve.

So why not consider adopting a shelter dog this month? You may just find your new best friend.

Dog Breeds Frequently Found In Animal Shelters and the Misconceptions That Put Them There

When looking to find a furry companion, many people head straight to pet stores or reputable breeders without considering the numerous loving dogs that can be found in animal shelters right in their own communities.

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about certain breeds that lead them to be frequently surrendered to shelters, such as the belief that Pit Bulls are inherently aggressive or that Chihuahuas are difficult to train.

However, with proper care and training, dogs of all breeds can make safe and loving pets, and adopting from a shelter can give them a second chance at a better life.

So next time you're considering bringing a new furry friend into your life, consider visiting your local animal shelter and giving a deserving dog the loving home they deserve, regardless of their breed.

Why is it Better to Adopt a Dog From a Shelter?

There are countless reasons why adopting a dog from a local shelter is the best route to take when looking to add a furry friend to your family.

For starters, you're giving a shelter animal a second chance at a happy life in a loving home. These pups are oftentimes older, unwanted, or have had a rough go of things, but that doesn't mean they don't deserve a wonderful home just as much as any other dog.

Plus, when you adopt a dog, you're not just gaining a pet - you're gaining a family member. Shelter dogs are incredibly grateful and bond well with their new families, making them the perfect addition to your household.

Lastly, by choosing to adopt, you're helping reduce the number of homeless animals in your community and giving more dogs a chance at finding their forever homes instead of being consigned to city streets or being a permanent shelter pup.

So why not visit your local shelter and see if your new best friend is waiting for you?

How to Adopt From Shelters

Adopting a furry friend from an animal shelter is a wonderful way to give back to your community and make a lasting impact on the life of a deserving animal. If you're considering adopting a dog, start by researching the local shelter in your area and scheduling a visit.

Talk to the staff and volunteers at the shelter to learn more about the adoptable pets and the shelter's adoption process.

Many shelters charge adoption fees to help offset medical expenses and the cost of caring for the animals.

If you want to adopt a specific breed or age of dog, consider reaching out to a rescue group that specializes in that type of animal.

Whether you adopt through a shelter or rescue group, you'll be making a difference in the life of a shelter animal and gaining a loyal, loving companion in the process!

How Long Does it Take for a Shelter Dog to Adjust to a New Home?

Bringing home a shelter dog is an exciting and emotional time for both you and your new furry friend. As a new foster parent for shelter animals, you must understand the importance of patience when welcoming a lost dog into your home.

Each dog is different, so it's hard to pinpoint an exact time frame for adjustment. However, the general consensus is it usually takes about two to four weeks for most dogs to start feeling comfortable in their new surroundings.

Puppies entering shelters may take less time to adjust since they haven't formed strong connections yet, and taking them into the home will likely be an easier transition for them that for an older dog.

It's essential to give your new addition time to get used to their new family, surroundings and routine. This can be especially difficult with an existing dog in the home, but with time & patience they will become inseparable.

Be patient and let your dog adjust at their own pace -- before you know it, they will be a happy and thriving member of your family.