If you’ve been lucky enough to be adopted by a stray dog or cat, you’ll agree that of all the pets you’ve had the joy of sharing time with, that stray that chose you will always have a special and warm place in their heart.

What is it about strays, and whom they select to spend the rest of their life with? For some mysterious reason, in their eyes YOU are perfect. Of all the homes on your street, or all the families they could endear his or herself to, or mooch a meal from; for some reason known only to them and perhaps a greater power, YOU have been chosen.

Is it an instinct? Do they have a supernatural sense to somehow make the wisest choice for their survival and contentment? What is so special about you? You may not see it, but obviously they do.

For a roof over their head, cat or dog food in their belly, a hand to lick and a pack to belong to, the majority of strays that adopt a person or family express their gratitude with undying loyalty, devotion and unconditional love. You see it in their eyes, every single day you share together.

Bottom line: The next time you stumble on a stray, or it finds you, think twice about ignoring it. Don’t shoo them away, or call animal control. There may be an awfully good reason why at this particular time, they have nestled quietly into your life.

Adopting a pet from a local shelter saves the life of an animal that might be faced with euthanasia because a home couldn’t be found for it.
Pets boarded in neighborhood shelters don’t necessarily have behavioral issues. Many  are loving pets in need of good homes because their owners could no longer take care of them. Unfortunately, this is the most common occurrence.

When you adopt a pet, you are giving an animal a second chance. You’ll be giving a home to a pet that desperately needs one, and you can feel good knowing that you saved the life of a loving new friend. It may also be the only chance you’ll ever have to choose a relative.

When you decide to adopt a dog, there are some things you need to know.
If adopting a pet is a new experience, follow these helpful tips:.

• Make sure you’re willing to make the time and a personal commitment that your new pet needs, including providing medical care.
• When you adopt a pet you expect the bond to last a lifetime, so be financially prepared to afford veterinary service to protect dog health care.
• Make certain your family is ready for a pet, too. Prepare young children for the responsibilities of caring for a pet. Make them aware of things which pose a threat, such as household dangers and food toxicities, and show them how to gently handle a pet.
• Do you have room for your pet to grow? If you adopt a large dog, will he have room to get the daily exercise he needs in your yard, or will you have to take him for a walk every day?

Once your adoption is complete, schedule a veterinary appointment for your dog’s first checkup. Ensuring his health is the first step to establishing a long-lasting bond.

Pet adoption can be a rewarding experience for children who should be involved in every step of the process so that they understand the responsibility of pet adoption. This also gives them a say in the process of bringing a new pet home.

Good chemistry between the dog and children is key in the early stages; if a dog and owner bond right away the adjustment period after you adopt a pet will be easier for everyone. Because dogs are pack animals by nature, it’s important to establish a dog’s new “pack” status with you and your family quickly. Children will be more emotionally invested if they helped adopt a pet rather than having one picked for him or her.

Whether you’re thinking about adopting a puppy or an adult dog, here are some reasons that may sway you to head to your local animal shelter:

• Grown dogs usually don’t need to be housetrained, which is a BIG timesaver!
• Dogs need exercise, and that means you’ll get more exercise, too. Walking your dog is a great way to get a daily workout and meet new friends at the dog park.
• Did you know that pet owners are happier and live longer than people who don’t own pets? That’s a great reason in itself.
• It’s true: dogs are good guardians. They provide a sense of safety, alerting you to unwanted strangers near your home, and protect you on the street.
• When you adopt a dog you’re not just bringing a new member of the family into your home, you’re also saving a life.