Have you been searching for a loyal, lifelong companion? This may very well be the month for you to find that special friend. If you are looking for a dog, look in your local shelter.
Remember, the love of a pet is unconditional and it will last for years to come. Studies have shown that the mere presence of a pet can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, relieve stress, and actually add years to our lives. So why not celebrate Adopt a Shelter Dog Month by saving the life of a homeless dog while you extend your own?
Consider pet ownership a lifetime commitment. A lifetime of food, water, companionship and love is what a new dog will require. When selecting a dog, keep these factors in mind:
Size and space requirements
How much time will you have to spend with your dog?
Activity levels
Live in an apartment? Then consider size and exercise needs of animal
Fur factor
Trainability
Research different breeds and temperaments
Do you have small children?
Regular visits to your local veterinarian are necessary for the health of a new dog. Unexpected visits are also a consideration, so make sure you are ready for the financial commitment as much as the emotional commitment.
Nothing says "welcome home" like a wagging tail and a pair of warm, loving eyes. Animal shelters always have a wide variety of pets to choose from including mixed and purebred dogs in a range of colors, sizes, ages, and personalities.
Make your pet feel welcome by stocking up on some basic supplies before bringing him home. A new collar and leash, food, dog bowl, dog bed, and some fun toys are a good start.
What can you do to help if you are not in the position to adopt a dog at this time? Help a dog find a loving home by contributing your time by becoming a volunteer at your local shelter. You can help walk and play with the animals and assist with animal adoptions. By being a shelter volunteer, you give those animals waiting for adoption some of your time and love. You can give as little as two hours a month or two hours a week. Nothing makes you feel better than giving an animal a treat and knowing it is the first time he has had anything special, or, throwing a toy for a dog and realizing this is the first time anyone has really played with him/her. Information and applications for becoming a volunteer are available at the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
The shelter also has kittens, cats an occasional rabbit, guinea pig, ferret or bird for adoption. All animals at the shelter are looking for a home and someone to love and care for them. They will repay you with unlimited love and companionship.
For a listing of animals available for adoption at the shelter check www.petfinder.com/shelters/mesquiteanimalshelter.html.
You can also check www.petfinder.com/shelters/NV68.html for animals available through We Care for Animals another local rescue organization.
The Mesquite Animal Shelter is located at 795 Hardy Way, Mesquite, NV. Follow Turtleback Road until it turns into Hardy Way. Proceed down Hardy Way and turn right into the shelter just past the City Maintenance Building. There are signs along the way to guide you.
From Las Vegas, take Mesquite exit 120 and turn left onto Falcon Ridge Parkway. Follow the road (past Wal-Mart on the right and the hospital on the left) until the road, T's at Hardy Way. Turn right on Hardy Way and travel approximately 1 mile then turn left just past Horizon Dr. into the shelter.
Adoptions are held between 11am and 1pm, Monday thru Saturday. Call 702-346-5268 (voicemail) or 702-346-7415 for further information.