Why Adopt From A Shelter?

• You are saving a life.

• Best bang for your buck.  Did you know that spay/neuter surgery is included in the adoption fee at the Capital Area Humane Society?  Click here to find out what else is included in the fee.   

• Looking for a purebred?  Nearly 30 percent of dogs in shelters are purebreds.

• Shelters typically have a large selection of animals looking for forever homes.

• You will have access to a knowledgeable staff that is very familiar with the animals.

Breed Placement Groups

• Breed placement groups are made up of dog and cat fanciers with an interest in a particular breed. 

• These groups offer a wealth of knowledge about a particular breed.

• They are committed to finding permanent, loving homes for animals.

• These groups are the next best alternative to adopting an animal from a sheltering organization.

• Click here for a list of local breed placement groups, additional shelters and resources.

What’s Wrong with Pet Stores?

• Too often, pet stores obtain animals from massive breeding operations called puppy mills.

• Purchasing an animal from a pet store financially validates the existence of inhumane breeding operations.

• These operations do not encourage responsible pet ownership.

• Employees are not always able to provide information on animal’s health background.

The Breeder Route

If you have exhausted the sheltering organizations and breed rescues, and still decide to go the route of the breeder, make sure you are purchasing an animal from a responsible breeder. 

Ways to recognize a responsible breeder:

• Breeding should be a passion and hobby, not an occupation and means for making money.

• The person should only be breeding one type of dog and should not be a jack of all trades.

• The breeder should be involved with breed rescue.

• Check references – contact veterinarians and past purchasers.

• Ask to meet the mother and father dogs.  If the father dog does not belong to the breeder, he or she should be willing to give you information so you can contact his owner.

• Take a tour of the space the dogs are kept in – the area should be clean and sanitary.

• A good breeder will educate you about the behavioral and medical concerns for the breed, and will talk about what he or she has done to ensure healthy and behaviorally sound litters.

• While all dogs should be registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC), keep in mind that a registry is not guaranteeing perfection.

• Beware of other registries with less stringent regulations.

• Find out what the breeder’s responsibility is should the animal become sick.

• Responsible breeders make a major investment – spending a great deal on good food, medical care and testing.

• You should be prepared to make a financial investment.