Animal shelters and rescues offer you a great place to get your next family pet. These groups can be different, but they do have common goals. They work hard to locate a permanent loving home for unwanted or misplaced companion animals such as cats and dogs.  Many of these rescue groups rely on volunteers and donations to care for these animals while they are between homes.

You will find that most rescue groups rely on their hard working volunteers and support from the local community to operate. You will also find a wide variety of animals available through these rescue groups. Many of these groups handle all types of animals and you will find puppies and even senior pets available for adoption.

As you begin looking at dogs available through rescue groups, keep in mind some of these animals have had very hard lives. Some dogs may have been abused by their owners. Some females may be ready to or have just given birth. Many dogs come to rescue groups because their owners are moving or can no longer care for them. Many groups take animals that are on death row at kill shelters or as strays.

Screening Both Pets and Owners

Rescue groups do a good job of screening animals before placing them in their forever homes. New owners know up front if the animal suffers from a medical condition, such as diabetes, before adoption. Having the animal’s health history at the time of adoption helps the animal find their forever home.

They also screen potential pet owners through an interview and application process. You will be asked several questions about your home, your children and other pets you may have. This is not to be intrusive but simply to help match an owner with the right pet. The organization wants to know these pets will be well cared for the long term. This inquiry may include your other pets, the age of your children and the size of your yard. A home visit may also be required. This helps match the right pet to you. If you find a pet offered through a pet rescue group, you will be asked to sign an agreement stating that you agree to care for the pet long term.

Adoption fees vary by each organization, but you can expect to pay $100-$200 for a rescued animal. These groups are non-profit so these fees cover the cost of the animal while in the organization’s care. This adoption fee helps cover vaccinations, medical exams, spaying and neutering.

Why Consider Adopting a Rescue

You can gain a lot of personal satisfaction by adopting your next pet through an animal `rescue. You know you have done something to help and your new pet will show its appreciation. If you are interested in adopting through one of the many rescue organizations, it is easy to find one in your area. Links to many rescue organizations are at WindmillLaneBoardingKennel.com. Most of the time, these pets are kept in private (foster) homes until they are adopted. Fostering provides time for the animal to be socialized with other pets, children and time to get used to living in a home. Animal rescue groups hold events showcasing their animals that need homes for interested people to see and meet the animals.

Conclusion

Getting your next pet through an animal rescue organization is a responsible and rewarding method to obtain your next family member. Participating in the many volunteer opportunities offered through these organizations is rewarding as well.