When:
🗓️ October
Where:
🌐 Everywhere
Since:
1981
🐕
Created by the American Humane Association in 1981
Also known as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month
Celebrating Adopt a Dog Month: Finding Homes for Our Furry Friends
October is the month of falling leaves, pumpkin spice, and warm scarves, but it is also the month of Adopt a Dog Month
Dogs give us so much love, loyalty, and companionship, and they deserve the same from us.
But why is this event necessary?
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters in the United States each year, and around 670,000 are euthanized. This shocking statistic raises the question: why do so many dogs end up in shelters in the first place? What is it about this beloved pet that so many people find easy to abandon?
The fact is that people have dogs for different reasons; companionship, protection, or just the simple joy of owning a pet.
But sometimes, life circumstances change, and dogs are surrendered to shelters because their owners can no longer care for them.
This can be devastating for the dogs who often experience fear, loneliness, and confusion when left behind.
The Heartbreaking Reality of Dog Abandonment
Dog abandonment is a heartbreaking reality that affects millions of dogs every year. But why do so many dogs end up homeless or in shelters? Dogs are often abandoned for various reasons, including financial difficulties, lifestyle changes, or lack of responsibility.
Sadly, some people don’t understand the responsibility that comes with owning a dog. Many dogs end up in shelters because their owners didn’t realize the commitment required to care for them properly.
Some dogs are surrendered because their owners move or can no longer afford to care for them or when they move to a place where pets are not allowed.
And tragically, some dogs are abandoned because their owners simply no longer want them.
This can have devastating effects on the dogs as they become anxious, depressed, and struggle to adjust to the shelter environment. The sad reality is that many of these dogs end up homeless or in shelters, and some may never find a forever home. Dog abandonment is a serious issue that affects millions of dogs every year.
However, there are many ways we can prevent this from happening. Providing proper education about the responsibilities of dog ownership, promoting spaying and neutering, and offering financial assistance for low-income families are just a few examples.
Adopt, don’t shop
Adopting a dog from a shelter can be a better option than buying from a shop or a breeder, as it provides a loving home for a dog in need and saves them from the harsh reality of life in a shelter or worse.
Contrary to popular belief, dogs from shelters are not “damaged goods” or “problem dogs”. They can be well-behaved, loving pets that just need a second chance.
Plus, adopting a dog from a shelter is often cheaper than buying one from a pet store or breeder. Many shelters can provide you with more advanced advice on what dog is right for you than a breeder or shop can give you.
Many good shelters also tend to take care of medical problems, certain vaccinations and may even have neutered some animals.
This takes a lot of tedious medical hassle out of your hands and provides the assurance that someone with experience took care of these very important procedures.
So, if you’re looking to add a furry friend to your family, consider adopting a dog and giving them the love and care they deserve. After all, who doesn’t love a good underdog story?
And who knows? That dog may end up being your new best friend and bring endless joy and laughter to your life.
Going Beyond Adopting a Dog: The Ethics and Morals of Pet Ownership
While Adopt a Dog Month promotes animal adoption as a solution to the issue of pet homelessness, there are several questions that arise when it comes to getting a dog.
The first being, are you truly ready for the responsibility that comes with being a pet owner? Many people may impulse-buy a dog without informing themselves about the animal they are taking in, resulting in a poor home environment for the dog.
Secondly, are your expectations from the dog realistic and ethical? Many people may have unrealistic expectations from their pets, leading to frustration and eventually abandonment.
Understanding the ethics and morals of pet ownership can not only lead to a better life for the pet, but also a more fulfilling experience for the owner.
Animal shelters differ per country, but they all have one common goal: to provide a safe haven for animals in need. These animals can include not only dogs and cats but also rabbits, birds, and sometimes even horses. It is important to consider the ethics of buying an animal from a breeder or a pet shop when there are so many animals in shelters in need of a loving home.
By adopting an animal from a shelter, not only are we saving a life, but we are also giving that animal a second chance at finding a loving and responsible home.
Making A Balanced Decision:
The decision to adopt a dog is not one to be taken lightly. It is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a commitment to bring a new pet into your life.
Here are some factors to consider:
Pros:
- Saving a life: By adopting a dog from a shelter, you are giving a loving home to a dog who needs a home and may even have otherwise been euthanized. (Not all shelters are no-kill shelters)
- Pre-trained: Many shelter dogs already have basic training and socialization, making it easier to integrate them into your home.
- Cost-effective: Adopting a dog from a shelter is generally less expensive than purchasing a dog from a breeder. Especially if the fee includes them being treated for existing health problems, vaccinations, basic training and sometimes even neutering costs.
- Match-Making: Shelters can help you find the dog that fits in your household. Whether it’s a puppy that will grow into your family or an adult dog that has shown to have the matching personality. Matching with an adult dog has the added benefit that they have already grown into their personality so you know exactly what you adopt.
- Companion: Dogs make great companions eager to help you with your activities and can provide emotional support and unconditional love.
- Health benefits: Studies have shown that owning a dog can have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and increasing physical activity.
Cons:
- Unknown history: Shelter dogs often have an unknown past and may have experienced trauma or neglect may have behavioral issues that require patience and training to overcome.
- Medical needs: Some shelter dogs may require more medical attention than dogs from breeders.
- Behavioral issues: Emotional attachment: Losing a beloved pet can be incredibly difficult and heartbreaking.
- Responsibility: Owning a dog is a big responsibility and requires time, effort, and financial resources.
- Time: Taking care of living creatures can be unpredictable and time-consuming, especially when unexpected needs arise. This can be challenging for those with limited free time, as it’s difficult to anticipate the emotional and biological needs of animals.
- Adopting a dog may not be feasible for those with allergies, young children, or a restricted living situation.
Overall, while adopting a dog can be challenging at times, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience for both you and your new furry friend. Think wisely if adoption benefits both the dog(s) and the human(s).
Why Adopt a Dog Month was created
Adopt a Dog Month was established in 1981 by the American Humane Association to raise awareness about the millions of dogs waiting in shelters for a loving home. The idea behind it is to encourage people to adopt dogs from animal shelters and rescue organizations, rather than buying them from pet stores or breeders.
The American Humane Association chose October as the month for this event because it’s a month where many people are settling down into a routine after the summer, and it’s a great time for people to think about adding a new member to their family.
Since its inception, Adopt a Dog Month has become a nationwide event, with many animal shelters and rescue organizations hosting special events and adoption drives during the month of October.
Celebrating Adopt a Dog Month
Adopt a Dog Month is a time of celebration, awareness, and of course, lots of wagging tails and sloppy kisses.
Here are some tips to make the most of this event:
- Visit your local animal shelter and adopt a dog! Give the dogs some love and attention, and see if any of them catch your eye. Adopting a dog is the ultimate celebration of this month, you might find your BFF!
- Throw a party in honor of Adopt a Dog Month! Invite all your dog-loving friends and their furry companions. Bake bone-shaped cookies and hang up pup-tastic decorations and throw in some dog toys for dogs and humans alike.
- Visit a special event! During Adopt a Dog Month, animal shelters and rescue groups across the country might host events to help find loving homes for dogs in need.
- Volunteer! If you’re looking to participate, consider visiting your local shelter, attending an adoption event, or volunteering to walk or play with dogs waiting to be adopted.
- Take your adopted dog on an adventure! Go hiking, visit the beach, or explore a new city. Your dog will love the new sights and smells, and you’ll both make unforgettable memories.
- Share your adoption story on social media with hashtags like #AdoptADogMonth and #RescueDogsRock. You’ll inspire others to adopt and spread awareness about the importance of rescuing dogs.
Remember, Adopt a Dog Month is not just about adopting a dog, it’s also about creating awareness for the millions of dogs still waiting for their forever homes.
Stay Safe, Fido Style:
“Stay safe, folks! Adopt a Dog Month may be a joyous occasion, but let’s not forget that it comes with its own set of hazards.
Here are some tips to make sure you don’t get into any hairy situations:
- Beware of puppy eyes! They may seem cute and innocent, but they can quickly turn into a guilt trip. Stand firm in your decision to adopt.
- Make sure you are ready for the responsibilities of pet ownership before adopting a dog
- Always approach dogs with caution, especially if you are unfamiliar with them
- If you’re volunteering at a shelter, make sure to follow all safety protocols.
- Remember to take breaks and dance with your dog to keep the mood light and fun!
- Always carry a lint roller with you to avoid embarrassing pet hair on your clothes during that important business meeting.
- Keep a spare pair of shoes handy in case your new furry friend decides to chew your favorite pair. Try if a chew toy works to fulfill their need for chewing.
- Remember to stretch before taking your new pup for a jog – Dogs LOVE to move and you don’t want to pull a muscle and have to be carried home by your furry companion. If they are trained to be that kind of assistance dog anyway…
- Keep you and your dog hydrated during long walks by carrying a water bottle and a bowl. Bonus points if you teach them to hold the bottle themselves. There are carrier bags for that. Find one that is comfortable and stylish both. Some dogs love stylish gear when it gets them attention and dogs LOVE attention.
- Be mindful of your dog’s health, including regular visits to the vet and proper exercise and nutrition
- Get your new dog vaccinated and microchipped as soon as possible. Better be safe than sorry is 20/20 hindsight in advance!
- Avoid giving your dog chocolate, grapes, or anything related to onions (onions, garlic, leek, etc), which can be toxic to dogs. All the more of those for you and your human companions.
- Make sure your dog has proper identification, just in case they decide to go on a solo adventure.
- If your dog gets into a fight with another dog, don’t panic. Just put on some boxing gloves and referee the match.
- Always have a first-aid kit on hand for any dog-related emergencies. Either for you or the dog. And if all else fails, just wrap your furry friend in bubble wrap and call it a day. Refrain yourself from popping the bubbles and exciting the dog any further though!
- Keep a leash on hand in case the circumstances require you to keep the dog on a lease. Like certain terrains or when the dog gets a little too frisky during whatever happens at that time.
- Avoid using squeaky toys in rooms or times when you value your eardrums.
- If the dog starts digging in your garden, try not to take it personally. It’s probably just looking for buried treasure. Instead teach your doggy friend where they are allowed to dig and where not. Give them clear choices. You never know if they do fond treasure somewhere.
- Practice good hygiene when handling dogs to avoid the spread of disease. Both for humans and dogs, mind you!
- In case of emergency, keep a stash of dog treats on hand to distract your canine companion from any dangerous situations.
- And remember, always dance like nobody’s watching, especially when you’re teaching your new dog some new tricks
In Conclusion:
Adopt a Dog Month is a time to celebrate the joy of dog ownership and to help those pups in shelters find their forever homes. Remember, adoption is a lifelong commitment that requires love, patience, and responsibility. By adopting a shelter dog, you can save a life and gain a loyal companion who will give you unconditional love for years to come.
And if anyone asks why you’re showing your new doggo how to fetch a stick, just tell them that Wild Calendar gave you permission to do so. (After you take that stick out of your mouth, of course.)
Happy Adopt a Dog Month!
🐶🐕🐩🦴
#October #AdoptADogMonth #AdoptAShelterDogMonth