There’s lots of conflicting information out there around how to go about adopting a pet. With that in mind, the team at DugDug is going straight to the source in our latest Pet Shelter Expert Interview Series. In this series, we’ll be speaking with top experts at notable pet shelters around the country in an effort to create a one-stop resource for all of your pet adoption needs.
Angela Messer is the Director of Operations at the Pennsylvania SPCA, the second oldest humane organization in the United States. There are many things that make the PSPCA unique, but maybe most impressive is that it’s open 365 days a year, despite the fact that is receives no funding from either the state or local government.
How many animals do you estimate have been adopted out this year, and since the beginning of the shelter? What is the adoption rate?
We have completed just over 1,100 adoptions so far in 2013 and have averaged 6,000 adoptions annually for the last few years. Unfortunately, we don’t have a ton of historical data regarding adoptions in the past but the Pennsylvania SPCA has always put priority on getting shelter animals into loving homes.
What should I be thinking about before I go through the process of adopting a pet?
The most important thing to consider is what type of pet is right for you and your family’s lifestyle. For example, if you are active, and intend to include your new pet with your activities, a dog may be a better choice than a cat. You should have an open discussion with your family members about the role your new pet will have, and who will be responsible for his/her care.
Can you tell me anything about the different types of shelters I could potentially adopt from? Is one type better than another? What should I be looking for when choosing a shelter to adopt from?
There are many different types of shelters and rescue groups to choose from when adopting an animal, and all are in the business of saving lives. Deciding on which option to pursue should be based on what type of animal you are looking for. Larger shelters, such as the Pennsylvania SPCA, offer variety in species and breeds and are often better at being available pre and post adoption for support. Smaller, species or breed specific rescue groups often have lengthy, stricter adoption processes and are frequently volunteer-driven. These groups typically have very in-depth knowledge of their preferred species or breed, but do not usually have a building to work out of. Their model is to rely on a network of foster homes to house their animals and when issues arise, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Both models are successful in saving lives and it really just depends on what species or breed you are looking to adopt.
Are there fees/costs associated with adopting? Why do they vary so much from shelter to shelter?
There are typically fees associated with adopting. It is common for the fee to vary from shelter to shelter, based on current promotions and which animals are being targeted for adoption. Animals that are desirable, what we refer to as Good Samaritan Animals, will have a higher adoption fee to help support the animals that are more difficult to place and stay in the shelter for much longer. Additionally, each shelter animal is provided with veterinary care upon intake; a process that usually includes an exam, vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick prevention, spay/neuter surgery, microchipping, etc. Often times, shelters and rescue groups base their adoption fee around what they invest monetarily in each animal.
What information do I need to have ready to prepare for adoption?
You should be prepared with photo identification, as well as additional forms of identification. If you rent, be prepared with your lease and/or your landlord’s contact information. If you have a veterinarian you use, bring his or her contact information as well.
What are the basic vaccinations or shots my pet should have?
Any reputable shelter or rescue will ensure your newly adopted pet is current on vaccines. We recommend that you take your newly adopted pet for a wellness visit at the veterinarian of your choice to get recommendations on vaccines and preventative care.
What are the most common things people forget to consider before they adopt?
We encourage people to consider an adoption as a lifetime commitment to an animal, but it is also important to think about what they will do if the animal is not a right fit for their household. Any reputable shelter or rescue will request the animal be returned to them, but people often worry about the response to this action. Our goal is to get the right pet in the right home, and this may take multiple tries. Before adopting, recognize that you may have to be patient in finding the right match for you and your family.
I have a child / another animal in the house already. What should I consider when selecting a pet?
We recommend you bring all members of your family, both the two-legged and four-legged, to the shelter to meet any pet you are interested in adopting.
How do you get most of the animals in your shelter?
Our animals come in through a variety of ways: some from our Humane Law Enforcement work, some from our local Animal Control facility and some from members of the public.
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