October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
Have you been searching for a loyal, lifelong companion? This may very well be the month for you to find that special someone. If you are looking for a dog, look in your local shelter. Animal shelters/Rescues are simply brimming with happy, healthy dogs just waiting for the perfect family to take them home.
By adopting from a shelter or rescue group, you are helping to save the lives of two animals: the dog you adopt and a homeless pup somewhere that can be rescued because of the space you have freed up.
Remember, the love of a pet is unconditional and it will last for years and 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. 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 the veterinarian are necessary for the health of your dog. Unexpected visits are also a consideration when you own a dog, so make sure you are ready for the financial commitment as much as the emotional commitment of having a dog
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 oh the personalities.
When bringing home your new family member. Make your pet feel welcome in his new home by stocking up on some basic supplies before bringing him home. A new collar and leash, food, dog bowl, crate or dog bed and some fun toys are a good start.
The shelter also has for adoption kittens, cats an occasional rabbit, Guinea pig, ferret or bird. All animals at the shelter are looking for a home and someone to love and care for them. They will repay you with love and companionship for years to come.
Who can argue with receiving unconditional love? Ask anyone who’s adopted a rescue dog: these dogs seem to know that they have been saved and return that favor a thousand-fold in love and affection!
Adopting a shelter dog can be a truly rewarding experience, and it gives a dog a second chance at life.
Farley
Lane
Featured dogs: Senior dogs Lane and Farley waiting for loving homes.
Lane- 7- 10 years old. Shy but friendly. Are you looking for a loving companion? Lane is an easy going boy that is looking for a home to call his own. He wants nothing more than a warm lap to lie on and for someone to give him endless love. He came from an abandonment situation with some other dogs. He loves attention and does well on a leash.
Farley- If you have been searching for an outgoing, furry companion that you want to spoil then look no further. He adores meeting new people and likes to go new places. He came from an abandonment situation with other dogs. He loves going on walks and playing in the yard. He will be the first to greet you at the cage door looking for someone to take him home and give him the love and attention he so deserves. He is at least 6-7 years old, neutered and a friendly little guy. He weighs 14.5 lbs.
Other available dogs:
Tater Tot- Female Catahoula Leopard dog blend. Lots of energy and very friendly.
Zachary
Featured Cat- Zachary
Zachary is an extra-large orange and white tabby. He lost his home. He can be a little shy at first, but give him time he really likes pets and brushing, is a quiet, laid back, friendly six year old. He’d be perfectly happy just lazing about in your lap. He previously lived with other cats and a dog and they got along just fine. Zachary won’t pass up a nice chin rub, or scratch behind the ears, but will not run around bugging you for one. If you are looking for an easy going companion, Zachary may be the boy for you.
Other available cats- none available at time of article submission.
All animals will be spayed or neutered prior to leaving shelter and receive 1 year rabies vaccination and city license. Ages are approximated.
The City of Mesquite Animal Shelter located at 795 Hardy Way is open for adoptions from 11am until 1 pm, Monday through Saturday, Sunday 1pm -3pm. Please call 702-346-7415 during these hours to speak to the front desk. Animal Control may be reached by phone or voicemail at 702-346-5268
The animals submitted to the media may have changes so please visit our Petfinder website for a current listing and more detailed information on the animals. www.mesquiteanimalshelter.petfinder.com
Please also check our Facebook pages for lost and found animals along with pet information. https://www.facebook.com/MesquiteNVAnimalControl and https://www.facebook.com/FRIENDSOFMESQUITENVANIMALSHELTER
