Lifestyle

‘Clear the Shelters’ Events Happening All Over the Globe August 19

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Tony Maples Photography

 

Have you been wanting to add a pet to your family? This Saturday, August 19, might be just what you have been waiting for. In shelters and rescue groups across the world, adoption fees will be greatly reduced, and in some cases waived entirely, in a global effort to clear our shelters of homeless yet totally adoptable pets. This event, sponsored by NBC and Telemundo is the second annual “Clear the Shelters” campaign. Last year, the inaugural effort resulted in over 50,000 animals finding new homes.

How do you know if you’re ready to take on the responsibility of a pet? Pets require varying degrees of care and you should make sure that you’re prepared and ready for the challenge before deciding to adopt.

Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about adopting:

1. Do You Have Time to Train or Socialize a New Pet?

puppy

Photo: Flickr/Leo Rodman

Potty training and teaching a dog to walk on a leash can take some time. Make sure that you have the energy and patience to do this before adopting a pet that needs a lot of work, like a puppy.

2. Can You Commit to a Pet Who Might Live for the Next 10 Years?

orange tabby

Photo: Flickr/The.Rohit

Or, hopefully, longer?

While some pets, like parrots and tortoises can outlive a human, most dogs and cats can not. But, you should still take a moment to consider where you’ll be in the next ten years or so and make sure that you’ll be able to continue caring for a pet no matter what life throws at you.

3. Educate Yourself on the Pet That You Want to Adopt.

Pitbull mix shelters

Photo: Flickr/Rob Swatski

Make sure that you know what you’re getting yourself into before you take the plunge. Your new pet will need appropriate food, shelter, and training. Each species’ needs are different and needs can even vary by breed. Do your research and give your new pet the best life possible. 

To learn more about the Clear the Shelters event and to find a participating shelter near you, visit their website at www.cleartheshelters.com.