The Internet provides the right matches for people, pets

Here at the shelter, we get a couple dozen e-mails a week inquiring about pets.

"I saw Chase online; is he still available?"

"I am writing about Lucas; we think he'd be a good fit in our home. When can we meet him?"

"Does Freida get along with other cats?"

We work really hard at answering these e-mails in a few hours, or a day at most.

The Internet has changed pet adoptions forever, as well as adopters' expectations. And like the Internet's impact everywhere, it can be argued it has been mostly for the good.

Years ago, finding a dog or cat (or a rabbit, or any other adoptable critter) to adopt from a shelter involved jumping in the car and driving to various facilities. They were usually located on the edge of town, and you went hoping that a pet matching your mental picture of the perfect companion just happened to be housed in the facility you were visiting. Many of us found our beloved cats and dogs that way and, of course, we were also just as likely to find a pet we weren't intentionally looking for.

Sometimes we just chose pets out of weariness, or determination to find one before returning home.

But increasingly, crowded highways, longer commutes, more shelters and rescues, and ever-expanding urban areas have meant that searching for a pet can be overwhelming. Even though there are fewer animals overall, there is a larger population of adoptable pets to choose from. (Adoption was not always a focus of animal shelters, but now, more animals have a chance to find homes these days.)

If you have specific characteristics you are looking for in a pet it becomes an even more complex search.

"Is Jake good with kids?"

Then the Internet came along. Right on the heels of online dating was online pet matchmaking. Instead of plugging in the characteristics of the perfect mate, we were now able to plug in the characteristics of the perfect pet. Age. Size. Activity level. Location. Do you like long walks on the beach? You can find a dog that enjoys that. Craving a warm body to cuddle with on the couch while you watch TV? You'll quickly find a kitty online to fit the bill.

"How old is Coco? I have a soft spot for the older dogs."

An expressive, sharp photo can ensure hundreds of page views, leading to a prompt visit and a speedy adoption.

So if the online dating world hasn't been successful for you and your long walks on the beach are still lonely, Ramona, Savinia, Farralon, Kiefer, Polliwog and Vincenzo are all standing by, waiting to fall in love.

You might need a lint brush but you won't be disappointed.

Reference: www.insidebayarea.com

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