adoption
Our guide to animal adoption; learn why, where, and how to prepare to adopt a cat, kitten, dog or puppy from an animal shelter or rescue group.
For the Love of Pitbulls
I grew up in an awesome home with a wonderful mother, who above all else taught me compassion for others. Over time this gradually turned into an obsession with fighting for the "underdog" in any situation. I grew up with nine dogs that belonged to our family and anywhere up to 6 rescued dogs we were finding homes for , at any given time. I learned the importance of structure and socialization when raising and rehabilitating dogs at a very young age. Also I learned to control my emotions when dealing with dogs, because they are easily affected by us, and it rarely manifests as anything but issues. These skills served me well as an adult. I grew to own a very successful pet spa that catered mostly to nervous dogs, but more so, their nervous people.
Christina SaavedraPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeTails of a Misunderstood "Fur Mama"
I should start by leveling with you dear reader. I am not maternal. Before you run for the hills, don't panic! This is not going to be some tear ridden diatribe about how hard my life is because I do not have the capacity to bear human fruit from my loins. While I understand there are women out there whose one sole reason for existing is to procreate, while I sympathize with those who have tried to reproduce and cannot, for one reason or another; it's just never been for me. I guess I'm just not programmed that way. My life, to a certain extent, is complete without a gaggle of children hanging around, covering the walls with whatever stickiness they've located in the past five minutes.
Rachel NeavePublished 7 years ago in PetlifeRats
Many people think one thing when they see a rat: ew! But, I want people to know what amazing pets they can be. Now, to start off, I am not saying to go find a rat that lives in New York sewers, because they could have diseases. However, rats that are meant for pets or feeders are actually rather healthy. While most feeder rats aren't as great for pets (because they are misbred to get more for food and can unfortunately get sick) it doesn't mean they won't make good pets. My first two were feeder rats and I adored them. While they didn't last long due to illnesses, I gave them a longer and happier life than they would have originally had. When a rat becomes comfortable in an environment, they will see you as their mother. You are their giant, hairless, rat mom. And they will adore you. They love to cuddle, especially male rats. They can eat just about anything a human could eat. Yes, even a little chocolate. Dark is better, but it won't kill them to have a little milk chocolate.
Caitlin CardinalPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeWhat to Know Before Adopting a Senior Dog
Adopting dogs in general is one of the more exciting events in life. You're basically bringing in another member to your lovable family! Dogs are the greatest (sorry, cat lovers), because they're literally your best friend and will almost always find moments to cuddle with you. Nothing beats coming home from a long day and seeing your dog jumping in joy behind the window at the sight of you. And once you walk in, it's all hugs and kisses — this beats any greeting, ever.
Jacqueline HanikehPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeWhy You Should (Really) Adopt
Have you ever wondered why so many dogs wind up in shelters? Many dogs you see in pet stores or at local dog breeders' homes end up being surrendered to shelters. So, why are we so drawn away from adopting? When so many dogs are killed everyday who once were one of those "cute" and "adorable" puppies so many people spend thousands of dollars on?
Victoria MorrisPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeMaya’s Second Family
Dear Reader, Hi. My name is Maya and I am two-years-old. I love long walks and chasing squirrels but I hate bath time and not being allowed upstairs. I thought that I would tell you about the time that I met my second family. Yes, you heard me right, my second family.
Charlotte HarveyPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeMy Pit Bull Journey
In September of 2016 I decided it was time to move into my best friend's house. Along with me came my handsome cat, Niall, and my nine pound miniature pinscher, Sophie. Warmly welcomed into the new home, there were now three animals; my two (of course) and a 25 pound deaf pocket pitty named Bella.
Shani SmithPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeWhy I Spent a Saturday Being Craftsy for Animals I've Never Met
It was an oddly warm Saturday morning in September, and I was trekking to the same neighborhood that my 9-5 office was in. What was wrong with me? No, this had nothing to do with my career. This was something completely new, and entirely because I'm a sucker for animals in need (but let's be honest, who isn't?). Let's back it up a bit.
Kristian RomeroPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeAdopt, Don't Shop
The age-old saying, "A dog is a man's best friend," is a saying for a reason. Dogs really are man's best friend. I mean, let's just admit it: dogs are freaking awesome!! In most cases, they're even better than people. They have the most selfless love you can ever experience, and their hilarious antics will keep a smile on your face no matter how crappy your day was. They are always overjoyed to see you come home, even if you were literally gone 30 seconds to get the mail. They will look at you with the same level of adoration whether you've done your makeup flawlessly and look like Beyoncé or you've just rolled out of bed and have dried drool crusted on your face. Dogs. Are. Perfect.
Kimberly AlcornPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeThe Struggles of Fostering
If you are at a time in your life when you are not able to adopt an animal and make the commitment to stand with them for the rest of their lives, fostering is a good thing to turn towards. It allows you to help an animal, care for them, and give them all the love and attention they deserve before going to their forever homes.
Emmeline ReaderPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeLuna: A Rescue Story
First of all, welcome to our little page. Luna and I are pleased to meet you and hope you enjoy your stay. If she could, Luna would snuggle and love on every one of you. But you'll get acquainted with that lovable personality soon enough. For now, let me tell you about where our adventure started...
Amanda KnightPublished 7 years ago in PetlifeMeet Freyja, the Destroyer
Meet Freyja. Me: "Let's get a gentle dog like a Greyhound so I can bring it to the nursing home with me to visit the seniors. We can name him Gandalf the Grey!"
Rebecca GoldsteinPublished 7 years ago in Petlife