Animal Shelter

What the animal shelter won't tell you

Diane Mallek — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 08:54:00 -0700

The Humane Society of the United States estimates that 3 million to 4 million dogs and cats are adopted from animal shelters each year in this country alone. But are you getting the full picture when you adopt a pet? Here's what the animal shelter might not be telling you.

Is pet fostering for you?

Vicki Clinebell — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 10:13:00 -0700

You might be the purr-fect foster parent for a needy cat or dog! Can you love them and let them go?

How to foster animals without becoming a hoarder

Alicia French — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:00:00 -0700

If you’ve ever considered fostering a pet but worry about being the next star on Confession: Animal Hoarding, we’re here with a few tips to keep you from that fate. Fostering can be an incredibly rewarding experience and a great way to help animals in need but you need to be prepared for it to be successful. Here are our best tips to help you do good without becoming a local news story.

How to become a foster pet parent

Virginia Chavez — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:00:00 -0800

Do you love pets but aren’t sure if you’re ready to be a full-time pet mom? Fostering a pet is a great way to test the waters of pet ownership while helping a four-legged friend in need. Foster programs provide a stepping stone toward helping loving animals find “forever” homes. Whether you are thinking of easing into permanent pet adoption or simply have a heart for companion animals, follow these tips on becoming a foster pet parent to get started.

What you need to know about pet adoption

Christina Caldwell — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 05:45:00 -0700

If you’ve decided to add a fluffy new addition to your family, adopting a pet from a shelter is a great way to save a life and gain a new best friend. But there are a few things you should consider before adopting a pet, both about the adoption itself, and the process of adaptation once you take your new buddy home. Here’s what you need to know before taking Fido to the family nest.

Rachael Ray's large donation to needy pets

Kim Grundy — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 13:20:00 -0800

Food Network star Rachael Ray is putting her fame to good use by donating $775,000 to needy pets.

Advantages of adopting shelter dogs

Diane Pomerance — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 08:41:00 -0700

Thinking about getting a dog for your family? If you are like many, you may be considering buying a dog from a pet store or breeder. However, before you make a decision, consider the benefits of adopting a shelter dog. Though pet store or breeders' canines may seem the more advantageous choice, rescue dogs can be equally rewarding and perhaps an even better addition to your family. Here is why you should adopt a shelter dog.

5 Reasons why you should adopt an aging dog

Ann-Marie Fleming — Tue, 18 May 2010 14:52:00 -0700

You’ve made the decision to bring a dog into your life and you're off to the animal shelter to find your new four-legged family member. Now comes the hard part -- which dog do you choose? Before you immediately gravitate toward those cute young whippersnappers, consider adopting an older dog, who can give you companionship and cheer even though he’s getting on in years.

6 Myths about shelter pets

Kristin Julie Viola — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:09:00 -0800

Shudder at the thought of adopting a shelter pet? OK, so it may not be Paris Hilton-approved, but adopting an animal has a host of unique benefits, the greatest of which is the knowledge that you helped save a life. Here are some things you thought you knew about pet shelters that just aren’t true.

Pet rescue stories

Molly Cerreta Smith — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 04:56:00 -0700

Firefighters. Doctors. Animal foster families. What do these people have in common? They are the world's real-life heroes. Likewise, the volunteers who dedicate their time at animal shelters, the foster families who care for hurt and abandoned animals, and those who adopt pets from rescues and shelters are heroes for our four-legged friends. These people give homeless animals a second lease on life. And what do they get in return? Something that money cannot buy -- the love, loyalty and dedication of a pet that is forever grateful. Here we share some real-life animal rescues and heroes.

How to adopt a pet

SheKnows Editors — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 20:10:00 -0700

If you are thinking about adopting a pet, there are many wonderful dogs and cats available at your local shelter. Be sure to consider the age, size and disposition of the animal. Try to select a pet that is best for your family unit and that fits your family's living style.