According to the ASPCA, over 6 million dogs and cats enter shelters annually. Each year, over 900,000 animals are euthanized. While this seems like a large number, the average has declined in the past decade thanks to increased adoption rates from pet shelters. October is National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month, and if you have considered bringing a dog or cat companion into a forever home this is a great time to prepare.

Why Adopt From A Shelter?

Families welcome new pets into their homes through different means. Sometimes a friend’s pet has a litter, and sometimes a pet needs a new home due to illness or other circumstances. Adopting a cat or dog from a shelter not only connects you with a new friend, but there are other benefits:

• As animals are adopted from shelters, more room is made for other dogs and cats with the hopes of finding them forever homes.

• Shelter pets tend to be older and already housebroken, so you may not need to train them too much.

• Depending on where you adopt, shelter fees may not be as high as prices from purebred groomers or pet stores. Some shelters may also waive certain fees during adoption drives.

• Adopting from a shelter helps save a life!

Preparing Your Home

Once you have committed to adopting, it’s time to shop! You will find it easier to introduce your pet to their new home when you have everything in place for them. Toys are important, yes, but you want to have the essentials on hand so your pet can easily acclimate into the family. Some of the items you to add to your list include:

For Dogs

• Bedding - choose an appropriate-sized bed, pillow, smuggler or bolster (Care-A-Lot Pet Supply offers a wide selection to choose from!)

• Blanket - We recommend the Outward Hound Taupe Shag Blanket, perfect for any size dog

• Crate - Midwest Life Stages crates help with pet travel and other needs

• Cleanup Supplies - Accidents happen, so it’s helpful to have things like CarePads Housebreaking Pads and Earth Rated PoopBags on hand

• Deodorizers - Skout's Honor Stain & Odor Remover helps with accidents and removing smells, while the Pet House Candle in Sunwashed Cotton scent keeps your home fresh

• Treats - It’s never too early to introduce your dog to their new favorites. Cloud Star Wag More Bark Less Grain Free Oven-Baked Biscuits Peanut with Butter & Apples are a great snack for the season, while WERUVA Pumpkin Patch Up! Pumpkin Supplement for Dogs & Cats is helpful for digestive health.

For Cats

• Sanitation - Cat litter is a must, and Care-A-Lot Pet Supply offers many brands for your new cat’s needs. Use it in the Arm & Hammer Large Rimmed Cat Litter Pan, which features a high rim to prevent scatter and odor neutralizers to keep your cat’s space fresh.

• Scratching - Cats will scratch! The KONG Naturals Incline Cat Scratcher not only encourages your cat to leave your furniture alone, but it is ergonomic and easy on the paws.

• Hydration - The Catit PIXI Fountain offers improved hydration for cats, better than a simple bowl. Filters help keep the water clean and the ergonomic shape makes it easy for cats to use.

Last but certainly not least, a nice selection of pet food and toys waiting at home lets your pet know they are wanted and loved. When you browse our online store or visit any of our four locations in Hampton Roads and Moyock, you’ll find the best assortment available. If you have further questions on what to buy before you adopt your pet, our expert staff can help!