August is Clear the Shelters Month. If you are considering adding to your fur family this is a perfect time to open your heart and home to a needy pet.

Every year, millions of pets find themselves in shelters, waiting for a forever home. Clear the Shelters Month is a nationwide event dedicated to helping these animals find loving families. Whether you're looking for a playful kitten, a loyal dog, or a unique pet with a special story, shelters have a wide variety of animals ready for adoption. You can check the full adoption list from Pasadena Humane Society to discover the perfect companion. 

Here’s why adopting from a shelter is a fantastic choice, and how you can make the most of this special month:

1.  Save a Life: When you adopt from a shelter, you’re giving an animal a second chance at life in a loving home with an adoring family. Especially at this time of year many shelters are overcrowded, and adopting a pet helps free up space for other animals in dire need.

2. Find the Perfect Match:  Shelters have pets of all ages, sizes, and personalities. Whether you want a high-energy puppy or a laid-back senior cat, you’re sure to find a pet that fits your lifestyle.

3. Support Ethical Practices: When you adopt from a shelter you are helping to combat the cruel practices of puppy mills and backyard breeders. Shelters prioritize the welfare of animals, ensuring they are healthy and ready for adoption.

4. You Save Money When You Adopt from a Shelter:  Adoption fees are often much lower than the cost of a pet from a breeder, and many shelters include initial veterinary care, such as vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping as part of the adoption package.

If you’re ready to help clear the shelters and add to your furry family, you need to prepare for your adoption. Before you bring home a new friend, consider a few things:

• Your Lifestyle: Consider your living situation, work schedule, and activity level to determine what type of pet would be the best fit for your home. Make sure everyone in your household is on board with the decision.
  
  
• Research Breeds and Species: Some animals require more time, space, and energy than others. Learn about different breeds and species to find one that matches your lifestyle.
  
  
• Visit Your Local Shelters: Many shelters offer specials to celebrate Clear the Shelters Month, so spend time interacting with animals at different shelters to see who you connect with. Ask the shelter staff about the animal you are considering. They can provide valuable insights into each animal’s personality and needs. So, ask questions about the animal’s history, behavior, and any special needs they may have.
  
  
• Prepare Your Home: Ensure you have the necessary supplies, such as food, bedding, toys, and a safe environment. Consider training, as many pets in shelters benefit from basic training to help them adjust to their new home. You can find many local training classes and resources to assist you in training and getting your new pet adjusted to their new home.
  
  
• Plan for an Adjustment Period: Understand that your new pet may need time to adjust to their new home, any other pets, and to you and your family. Be patient and give them the love and support they need to feel comfortable in their new surroundings.

Clear the Shelters Month is the perfect time to change the life of a homeless animal. By choosing to adopt you’re not just giving a pet a home, you are gaining a loyal friend and making a meaningful impact on your community’s animal welfare work!

The most important thing is to stay committed to the pet that you choose. Having a pet is a long-term commitment. Be prepared for the responsibilities that come with being a pet owner and enjoy the companionship, love, and joy that animals bring into your life! This August, visit your local shelters and give a home to a pet in need!

Lora Rouse, NAPPS Member

Chief Cat Sitter at Cool Cats Professional Cat Sitting, LLC