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Sophie the Dog: My Personal Story of Pet Shelter Adoption

Spaying and neutering helps to reduce shelter overpopulation problems

By Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, About.com

Sophie hanging out on the deck

Sophie hanging out on the deck

Janet Tobiassen DVM
Sophie was spayed the day after we adopted her. She arrived at her new home groggy, but happy. My animals greeted her with much interest.

Rex, our current dog, was beside himself. He has wanted a playmate for so long. He exercised considerable restraint, considering that Sophie was barely up to walking, much less running around crazily!

Sophie has been with us a week now. So far, the most major damage has been a chewed window blind. She is still on cautionary probation with the chickens (close supervision). She has really acclimated well to our lives and our pets.

The shelter provided so much in return for the small adoption fee: first vaccinations, microchip ID, spay surgery, and various pet food samples and coupons. All that they ask in return is that the animal be returned if the adoption doesn't work out for any reason. I know that they won't have to worry in this case!

The purpose of this story is two-fold: 1) to share with you the wonderful arrival of a new pet, and 2) to consider helping out a local shelter. Perhaps donating some food -- you never know what may happen -- but always think long and hard about what adding a pet to your family will mean. Pets require daily care and daily costs, not to mention "emergency" expenses.

The story would not be complete without mentioning the importance of spaying and neutering your pets. We can all work together to reduce the great number of animals killed each year due to lack of a home.

Pet overpopulation is sometimes called "the disease of euthanasia" since so many homeless and unwanted animals are put to death each year. Learn about spay and neuter surgeries, what resource programs are available, and what you can do as a responsible pet owner to help animals in need.

Sophie's story continues ---> Read Part II

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Adoption Resources > Online Pet Adoption Guide

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