If you’ve never been in an animal shelter, you may have visions of a cold, depressing place filled with abused and discarded dogs and cats. However, in reality, most animal shelters are warm, positive places filled with hope. Sure, it is sad to see all of the abandoned and surrendered animals – but knowing that they are in a place that cares for them while they await their second chance makes things seem a little brighter.

As most people are aware, most animal shelters takes in domestic animals – whether they be lost, injured, abused or in need of a new home. Although dogs and cats make up the majority of residents, the organization also provide a refuge for birds and small animals such as bunnies, guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, rats, and ferrets. The domestic animals are looked after until either they are claimed by their owners or put into the adoption program.

When it comes to adopting an animal from The Humane Society, it isn’t as easy as just walking in, picking one out and then taking it home. The Humane Society has the responsibility to place animals in suitable, loving environments and therefore does what it can to ensure that the person and the pet are a proper match. Not all adoption requests are granted.

Here is an overview of the adoption procedure:

Step 1: Choose a pet. Take your time picking a pet - this is definitely not the time for impulse decisions! If there is not an animal you feel is perfect for you, then come back another day (remember, the shelter is constantly taking in animals!). When viewing the pets, check out the card attached to each cage as it provides gender, age and breed information, as well as the animal’s history if it is known.

Step 2: Complete an application. Once you’ve decided on an animal, fill out an application form. Be sure to answer each question honestly. If there is a question you don’t understand, ask a staff member for help.

Step 3: Interview with the adoption counselor. This is when you’ll find out more about the animal you’re interested in and the staff member can help you decide if it is an appropriate match. The long-term well being of the animal is the Humane Society’s main concern, therefore they will make sure that the pet fulfills your expectations and suits your lifestyle. The adoption counselor will ensure that the adoption will prove positive for both you and the animal.

Step 4: Payment. The cost of adopting depends on the type of pet and varies across the Humane Society branches. With dogs and cats, payment also includes microchip identification, treatment with flea product, and all vaccinations to date.

While those are the steps involved with actually adopting a pet, Kim stresses that the very first step you should take is research. “There are so many informative books, Websites and magazines out there. You should know ahead of time what kind of pet you are looking for.” This is especially the case when it comes to dogs – for example, are you looking for a companion that will be a jogging partner or a couch cuddler? Kim’s advice when deciding on a pet is – know thyself and choose your pet accordingly!

If you are interested in helping out The Humane Society, there are many ways to do so such as:

• Adopt a pet: If you are considering getting a pet, obviously a great way to help out the Humane Society is to get your new friend from there. 
• Volunteer: As volunteers are the backbone of the Humane Society, it’s not surprising that they have a great volunteer program that offers many options for people who want to help out in a ‘hands on’ way. Some of the tasks volunteers are responsible for are walking the dogs, playing with the cats, performing administrative duties and helping out at special events. 
• Foster an animal: Some animals at the shelter require special care – such as newborn kittens or dogs recuperating after surgery. Foster volunteers take the animals into their homes and look after them until they are ready to go into the adoption program.
• Donate cash: As The Humane Society receives no government funding they rely on donations from citizens and corporations to keep the doors open. Donations are used not only for helping the animals (e.g. housing, feeding, and providing medical care), but also to allow the organization to bring humane education into the schools and communities. 
• Donate supplies: Each Humane Society has a ‘wish list’ of things needed on a regular basis, like paper towels, blankets, dog chewies, cat toys, quality pet food and office supplies. Receiving donations of much needed supplies and equipment means the Society can put more of the cash donations directly towards housing and caring for the animals.

There are animal shelters located in most major cities across North America, so if you would like to learn more about these organizations why not pay a visit to a branch near you. Or, do a search online – most branches have a Website that not only includes information on volunteering and donating, but also features animals that are currently available for adoption (e.g. www.torontohumanesociety.com).