October Marks National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month
October marks the beginning of cooler weather in South Louisiana, and what better way to celebrate the change in season by being outside than adopting a local dog as part of National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month. These furry friends, wether big or small, can be a great addition to any home, offering support, security, companionship and unconditional love. Adopt-A-Dog month was started in 1981 by the American Humane Association as a way to encourage people save dogs lives, as over three million dogs are euthanized each year due to overpopulation in animal shelters. So this month, consider rescuing a dog by giving it a better life and a forever home.
Here are some tips on how to find the right companion for you:
Know what you want. Do you want a active jogging partner, or a couch potato?
Consider your lifestyle. Where do you live? Do you live in a apartment with no yard? If so you may not want a big dog, as they are more active and require a lot of outside time.
How old is the dog? A puppy requires much more attention and training, which demands time and patience.
Pay attention to the dogs temperament. Spend time with the dogs in a separate area from its kennel and see how it reacts to you.
Visit the animal shelter a couple of times and visit with the dog to get to know to better help with your decision.
If you aren't able to adopt, there are others ways to help these neglected animals. You can volunteer your time at any shelter, sign up as a foster parent offering a “temporary” home to shelter pets, or make donations to shelters in the area, as supplies are always needed to care for the dozens of animals that come in weekly.
To adopt a local shelter dog, contact the Ascension Parish Animal Shelter at (225) 675-6557.
