Rescuers look for a good fit, pet to person

Some people complain that it's easier to adopt a child than get an animal from a rescue group.

You think the animals are lucky you even want them, and after all, they are someone else's castoffs, you should be getting them for free or at least cheap, right?

But the truth is that rescue volunteers - most of whom work full-time jobs and then tend to these animals - want you to respect that these animals have emotions and can be physically hurt.

They have been left by a previous owner. Some have been very sick and it's taken them a while to recover. They get attached to their foster families and then they must grieve their loss when they go to a new home. Some live in cages.

What the rescue groups are looking for is a good fit. They want to make sure you know what you are getting into and if this dog or cat is right for your home. They've spent a lot of time with the animal. They know whether it likes kids or chaos or whether it needs someone to be home more.

They know whether it's an escape artist or needs a secure fenced back yard.

Yes, they want to come to your house to make sure you really have a fence. They want to spend a little time there with you and the dog or cat to make sure everyone gets along.

They aren't judging you. They are playing the odds that they will choose the last home for this animal.

And some of you may think the adoption fee is high for a rescued animal. You are getting an animal that's vaccinated, spayed/neutered and treated for illnesses. Many of the volunteers offering you these dogs and cats paid those bills out of their own pockets.

Instead of being offended because they ask you a lot of questions, try thanking them for doing the jobs they do. Take a long hard look at the animals they have available and see if one is right for you. Fill out their application and accept whatever screening they do. They are worth the trouble.

Reference: www.commercialappeal.com

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