Adopt a New Pet – It’s National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day Here on the Suncoast

April 30, 2023 | Suncoast Post Staff | Blog

Every year here in the United States, 6.5 million animals go into shelters. They are about fifty-fifty cats and dogs, and the outcomes once in the shelters are not overwhelmingly positive. National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is meant to shine the spotlight on so many wonderful organizations that take in these fur babies, care for them and work to find them amazing homes. The hope is to adopt new pets into caring homes and help lighten the burden on organizations that care for them in the meantime. If you have been looking for a new fur baby to bring into your home, today is the day!

This day is a reminder for people all over the nation to make an effort to help an animal at a pet shelter. Many people live alone, and having a pet is indeed one of the best things to keep them company. With the efforts of National Adopt A Shelter Pet Day, people learn more about what it means to adopt a pet. Also, they are made aware of how having animals as pets can help them live healthy, fit, and long lives.

How to Pick the Right Pet

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of choices you find at an animal shelter. When picking a pet, find an animal that speaks to you and suits your lifestyle. Active and athletic types shouldn’t bring home a couch potato; those with families don’t want to get a pet that cherishes its personal space.

Older pets are often overlooked at shelters but have many great qualities and benefits. They’re usually less boisterous, but they may already be house-trained and extra grateful for the chance at a new family and home.

Places to Adopt Here on the Suncoast

If you are considering adopting a pet there are amazing organizations that help every day. From taking in abandoned pets to helping with those who have been surrendered, these organizations spend every minute of the day helping furbabies here on the Suncoast. Whether adoption is on your heart, volunteering somehow, or maybe just a quick donation – these organizations always love to support animals here on the Suncoast.

Not Ready to Adopt?

If you feel you can’t meet the needs of an adopted animal, consider helping in other ways. Give your time by volunteering. Not only will this help the shelter by providing the animals with exercise, companionship, and socialization, but it also gives you that wonderful animal love we all so enjoy. You can also check the shelter’s donation needs list. Bring the items you are able to give. This will help the shelter animals find their forever homes more quickly.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of adopting, National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is the perfect time to do it. Stop by your local animal shelter, meet the cats and dogs, and speak to a staff member about adoption.

Feature Photo Courtesy of Deposit Photos