While you may know where you can find an animal for adoption near you, you may not be aware of how many choices you really have.
Volunteers at local shelters and rescues confirm that what you see may not be what you get, in terms of numbers. When it comes down to it, state statistics on the number of adoptable animals leave a lot to be desired.
For more information, and a list of shelter organizations, visit Jersey Shore Online
I’m all for checking out adopters but was recently turned off by a rescue that wants to inspect your home and charge some $400 in adoption fees. If I can search out a pet, feed it and love it, that’s room for one more at the rescue.
Denise Langone Howell Pettersen I am sure the animal you were adopting has been completely vetted. Perhaps also neutered . I suppose you find this expensive if you are not going to do vet care on the animal.
Marylou Mccarthy I have 4 animals, up to date on vaccinations, general health and chipped and the dog who will be getting dental work. I know it’s costly. My complaint would be expecting people to adopt at such a high lump sum fee when they really want to give an animal a home. It’s a deterrent to a sincere adoption for many.
The adoption fees also go to help future rescues that may need more expensive surgeries to save their lives, like tumor removals, leg amputations. Without funds, rescues and shelters would have no choice but to pass on those animals, leaving them to be PTS. It is a lucky break for the rescues when they get a dog that doesn’t cost them an arm and a leg to save.
Do you know how many times thousands of dollars were spent on an animal in rescue, e.g. STDs tumors that had to be treated with chemo and radiation as well as bloodwork every other week to make sure they weren’t being compromised healthwise from the treatment, heartworm positive dogs that some vets charge $800 per shot and they have to have three in the treatment to eradicate the worms, in addition to electric bills, water bills, food, medicines, alterations, emergencies. I could go on. And you’re going to complain about $400? As a person in rescue, I disagree with you. You may give up on a dog because of a fee but the rescues do not give up on those animals. They will always have a roof over their heads, food in their mouths and vet care when needed. For as long as it takes to find them a forever home. And I will inspect your home to make sure the animal is going someplace decent to live. With all of the hoarding situations, absolutely will knock on your door.