THE SHELTER SYSTEM
Many people have misconceptions about how the
shelter system works. There are some that would never turn a
dog into the shelter, even a stray with a possible owner, for fear
the dog will be euthanized. And there are some that think the
shelter will easily find their pet a new home. Here's some
information that might be helpful before you decide to turn a dog
into the shelter or adopt a dog from the shelter. Strays
The shelter treats all strays as if they have an owner, whether the
dog was picked up on the street or turned in by a good citizen.
Each shelter, depending on if it's a county or city shelter and what
areas it covers, works differently.
According to the "Hayden Law," passed in 1998, California
shelters are required to hold stray animals from four to six days. During this time period, the animal is not adoptable by the
public. After the time period has ended, the shelter has the right to
euthanize the animal immediately. Some shelters, depending on space availability and temperament
and health of the animal, may give that animal anywhere from a few days
to a couple of months to find a new home. However, there are no
guarantees! Some animals are put down right away while others are
given a longer period to be adopted. If you turned a stray into the shelter, you may be given first
rights to adopt the animal when it becomes available. If this is
your intention, make sure the shelter knows you wish to place a hold on
the animal. Most shelters will NOT CALL YOU! You must follow
up yourself.
Owner Turn-Ins
If you choose to turn your own pet over to the shelter, there are
some things you should be aware of.
According to the "Hayden Law," passed in 1998, California shelters
are required to hold owner-surrendered animals for a minimum of two days. After the time period has ended, the shelter has the right to
euthanize the animal immediately. When you bring your animal to the shelter, they may have to
euthanize other animals to make room for your pet. Your dog may be placed in a kennel with other dogs, which could
result in dog fights. You will not be notified if your pet is adopted nor if it is killed. Even purebreds, puppies and kittens are put to sleep, so don't
assume your pet will be adopted because it's a popular breed or because
it's young and cute. Click here for alternative methods of
finding a new home for your pet before you take him or her to the
shelter.
Adopting from the Shelter
Adopting from the shelter can be a wonderful experience. These
animals desperately need homes before they are put to sleep. But how do you choose that one
perfect dog to rescue from the animal shelter?
Here are some pointers:
Take a look at your own lifestyle. Are you active? Are you
home a lot or do you work all day? Is anyone in your household afraid
of dogs? Once you get these answers, it's easier to choose the right
dog. Talk to a kennel worker!
They are
professionals. They deal with these dogs day and night and know about the
dogs. Tell them about your family, get their input. Allow the dog to get to know you first.
Spend a few
minutes letting the dog check you out. Then touch him all over very gently
while holding the leash.
Also, it's important to know what you are getting and if it matches what you
are looking for.
Teenage dogs (6 months - 1 1/2 years old) are more active, jump a lot and
can be "mouthy." But they are also less shy and sometimes adapt easier
to new environments. They might be too rambunctious for some families,
but with proper training, they can be educated to be great dogs. If you don't want to spend a lot of time training a dog, get a dog that
is 2 years old or older. If you have an active family and rambunctious children, stay away from a
dog that is too shy. However, if you want a dog that will sit placidly
at your feet, a shy one is your match. Puppies are cute, but require a lot of patience and training.
Consider the breed and whether it will be the right size when it becomes an
adult. Do research on the breed to determine if it's the right dog for
you (for instance, Pit Bulls make great family dogs but Jack Russell Terriers
can be controlling and snappy). You might be surprised at what you
discover!
Visit the Los Angeles Animal
Shelter web site to find a friend. |
