Zeus was a two-year-old Rottweiler/Husky mix who was abandoned and picked up as a stray. This gentle giant who just needed time to find a new chance at life was moved to a local adoption center.

Greg, Cathi and their three teenagers moved into a house that permitted dogs and immediately went looking for a new four-legged family member. On that day they crossed paths with Zeus at Pets In Need’s adoption center. Zeus was just the right size – big enough to fill their home and all their hearts.

When it comes to finding the ideal furry companion for you or your family, your choices range from contacting specific breeders for pedigree animals to visiting local adoption centers for both pedigree and one-of-a-kind mixed breeds. If you are not planning to show your dog or cat, adoption centers offer a wide choice of animals and additional services.

WHEREVER YOU GO TO FIND A NEW COMPANION, ASK THESE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS:

Get a feel for the people at the kennel or adoption center who have worked with the animal you are considering. How do they treat their animals?

Have the animals been exercised several times a day or mostly caged? Have the animals been house-broken and socialized with other animals, children and adults?

Ask to speak directly with the person who knows the unique personality of the animal you are considering. Has the dog or cat’s behavior been tested?

Ask to see the animal’s medical file. Are all the animal’s vaccinations current? Is the animal spayed/neutered? Is the animal protected with a microchip?

What is the return policy? What will the kennel or shelter do if your pet gets sick in the first couple of weeks?

What kind of animal care information and support will be provided once you take the animal home?

It’s important to do your homework and ask the right questions to help you find the perfect new furry family member.

 
Founded in 1965, Pets In Need receives no federal, state or local government support.

Published in the San Mateo County Times, November 24, 2001