Families turn to adoption for new furry friends

Thousands of pets die in shelters nationwide every day because there isn't enough room to house them. That is why the Humane Society of Yuma wants residents to adopt shelter pets.

“The ugly truth is, there are too many pets out there and not enough loving homes,” said Erin Sitera, HSOY director of development.

“If we continue to buy from pet stores and puppy breeders, we are only contributing to the countless deaths that occur every day. We have to be mindful of the long-term effects our decisions have on our pets.”

Many shelter pets have the advantage of already being trained “and seem to know and appreciate that you saved their life and gave them a second chance,” Sitera said.

“Pet adoption is one of the most humane and rewarding experiences a pet owner can experience.”

Before picking a shelter pet, a family should understand they are getting into a long-term commitment, Sitera said.

“It is important that a family be conscious of the fact they are taking on a 10- to 15-plus year commitment. Think about your lifestyle and your family's living arrangements.”

Important questions include the temperament of the animal, whether a family would like a puppy or kitten or a full-grown animal, the size of the pet and if the family can afford regular maintenance such as grooming for long-haired breeds, Sitera said.

In addition, potential owners should check with their homeowners associations to find out if there are any restrictions on the pets they can own.

“Picking the right pet is a very important decision and should not be taken lightly,” Sitera said. “Research and breed education is extremely important when picking out the perfect pet for your family.”

When adopting a pet, every member of a family should be present during the process, Sitera said.

“This helps to ensure that the family is picking out the right pet. Some animals react differently to men and women, and smaller children versus older children. We also encourage the family to bring their existing pets to the shelter as well. It is very important that everyone gets along in the household; this includes their new four-legged siblings as well.”

There is an application form that must be filled out at the beginning of the procedure “that just asks a couple of simple questions to ensure that it is the best time for the adopter to adopt, and then the adopter gets to pick out their new forever friend.”

Each animal adopted from HSOY is spayed or neutered, receives a five-pound bag of Science Diet food and vaccinations. The dog adoptions include an ID microchip, which is available for cats for $5 extra.

Adopting a pet be an excellent experience for both the animal and the family, Sitera said.

It is good for the family “because they gain a new best friend, the satisfaction of knowing that they are saving a life, and they are able to teach their children about the importance of responsibility and caring for the ones that they love.”

It is good for the pet “because it gives them a second chance at doing what they do best: providing unconditional love.”

To be prepared for an adoption, a family should choose a veterinarian in advance, Sitera said. They should also have the basics: a collar, leash, ID tag, litter pan (for cats), food and toys.

Besides the basic needs, it is very beneficial for the new pet owner to consider behavior training with their new friend, Sitera added. “This a great way for the pet owner and new furry friend to bond and establish a respectful and desirable relationship.”

Some shelter pets may have come from abusive pasts and need extra attention, Sitera said.

“It is true, some of our animals have had a rougher start than others and do require a little bit more time and love than others.”

However, “many of our animals are turned in due to moving, not enough time, not enough money, too large, new baby and the excuses and reasons go on and on.”

If a person is set on getting a purebred animal, HSOY can help them with that, too.

“We offer a wish list, so if you don't see the breed you are looking for, you can sign up to be notified when the dog or cat you are looking for enters our facility.”

To find out more about the adoption process, log on to www.hsoyuma.com. For more information, call 782-1621 or log on to hsoyuma.com.