Adopting From Pet Rescue Organizations
Most animal rescue organizations operate with volunteers and may not have any paid workers. They usually receive monetary support from the community and from members who join the organization. Some organizations rescue one particular type of dog or cat, such as retrievers, greyhounds, retrievers or certain breed of cats. Others work will all breeds and all ages of both cats and dogs. There are even rescue organizations that deal with other types of animals such rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, birds or even reptiles. Many times, you can even locate a rescue organization that can help rehabilitate injured or misplaced wild animals.
These rescue groups acquire their animals from owners who do not wish to take their pet to a shelter and are giving their animals up for various reasons. They also care for animals that are rescued from kill shelters or are strays living on the streets. Some programs also offer a “spay and neuter release” program for feral cats. These programs are important because they can drastically cut down on the amount of unwanted kittens that are born each year. Feral cats are humanely trapped and then are either spayed or neutered. Sometimes the very corner of the cat’s ear is clipped so it is obvious the animals have undergone the sterilization procedure. Cats that cannot be tamed are sometimes spayed or neutered and then given to people who own large ranch and farms to help cut down on the rodent population. In return, the new owners agree to provide the cats with food and water.
Before rescue organizations adopt out any cat or dog, the animal goes through a series of medical check ups and receive necessary vaccinations. The cats and dogs are spayed or neutered if they are old enough. If they are not old enough to be spayed or neutered, the new owners sign a binding contract to have the procedure done. In addition, those adopting these animals know that they are getting a pet with no medical conditions. If there is a medical condition, such as diabetes, the new owners know this up front before adopting.
If you are interested in adopting through one of the many rescue organization it is easy to find one in your area. You vet can give you the contact information for organizations near you. Most of the time, these pets are kept in private homes until they are adopted. This gives the animal time to be socialized with other pets, children and time to get used to living in a home. Sometimes, animal rescue groups will bring their animals that need homes to pet stores or other locations for interested people to see and meet the animals.
When you choose a pet in a rescue program, be prepared to go through an interview and application process. The organization wants to know these pets will be well cared for long term. You will probably be asked about other pets you may have, the age of your children, the size of your yard and your thoughts on declawing if you are looking at a cat. This is to help match the pet with the right owner. Rescue organizations work hard to place the right animal with the right home through this process. Adoption fees vary by each organization, but you can expect to pay between $100-$200 for a rescued animal. These groups do not make a profit. These fees are used to cover the cost of the animal while it was in the care of the organization. This adoption fee usually covers vaccinations, medical exams and spaying and neutering.
