Clear the Shelters runs through Aug. 31, but pets are in need of homes year-round.
Adopting a pet saves a life and guarantees you a lot of love, but the fun goes well beyond wagging tales to a full-time responsibility.
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Before you bring home a new member of the family, consider these questions from the SPCA of Wake County:
- Why do I/we want a pet?
- Is our home suited for the kind of pet we want?
- Is the kind of pet we’re considering allowed where we live? Sometimes, apartments or other rented homes do not allow certain dog breeds, or there may be a limit to how many animals you are allowed to keep.
- What would the plan be for our pet if we moved? Plan to take a pet with you when you move. If a pet must be rehomed, use social media and contacts to find a friend, family member or rescue organization that can accept your pet. Pets should not be dropped off at shelters, which are already overcrowded.
- Are we prepared to make a lifetime commitment (15 – 20 years) to a pet?
- Can we afford to care for your pet’s health and safety?Estimated expenses are about $1,000 per year and include food, medication for heartworm and flea prevention, veterinarian visits, supplies and more.
- How will our social life and work obligations affect our ability to care for a pet?
- What is our plan for our pet during vacation and other travel?
- Who would be responsible for our pet’s care, feeding, exercise, training, grooming, extra housekeeping and visits to the veterinarian?
- How might our other pets be affected by a new pet in the household?
- Does anyone in our home have allergies to pets, pet hair or pet dander?
- What else is going on in our home right now? Is now a good time to add a new family member?
- Does everyone living in our household agree about getting a new pet?