With so many adoptable dogs available in the United States, figuring out where to start can seem daunting and overwhelming. Don’t let that dampen your excitement, though! There are so many resources available to you.
Websites
www.petfinder.com: Probably the most well-known website for searching for adoptable dogs is Petfinder. Very few shelters and rescues don’t have at least some of their adoptable dogs listed here. There are a few things you should know about Petfinder, though. First, Petfinder is not updated in real time so it is not uncommon that a dog who is listed on Petfinder may not actually be available anymore or (even more frequently) that a shelter or rescue will have adoptable dogs that are not yet listed.
www.adoptapet.com: same idea as Petfinder but (in my opinion) the Adopt A Pet website is a bit more user friendly. Unfortunately, however, some shelters and rescues use only Petfinder, and not Adopt A Pet.
Social Media
There are many Facebook and Instagram accounts that feature adoptable dogs, and also many geographic (region, state, or even county or city) and breed-specific focused groups. Here are a few examples to get you started – definitely enter some search terms (try adopt +your state or city) into Facebook as there are many, many more:
Shelter Pet Project (nationwide – instagram and facebook)
Susie’s Senior Dogs (nationwide – focus is on senior dogs)
New Jersey Puppies and Dogs for Adoption
Word of Mouth
Do you have friends, neighbors or family members who adopted a dog? Ask them how their experience was, and if it was positive ask for the name of the shelter or rescue group. (Even better, maybe you have a friend, neighbor or family member that works or volunteers for a shelter or rescue group!) Even if that shelter or rescue group does not have a dog that catches your eye listed right now, many of them will keep your contact information on file and reach out when they receive one matching your criteria. They also might recommend other shelters or rescues that they partner with who might have a match for you. Finally, consider asking dog-related business owners (i.e. at your local pet shop, dog walkers, etc.) what local shelter or rescue they recommend.
Field Trips
Our former foster puppy, Dil, charming some prospective adopters.
The best way to figure out what you’re looking for in a dog is to meet lots of dogs. And a great way to meet lots of dogs is to visit local shelters and adoption events. Especially when the weather is nice, it’s not uncommon for groups to have events every weekend where you can meet their adoptable dogs. (When you go, be sure to be armed with questions like those outlined in this post!)
Adoption Counseling
More and more adoption counselors are popping up throughout the country, and there just might be one near you. Shameless plug: if you are located in New Jersey/NYC-metro area, I’d love to help you find your rescue dog.
