National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day: Things to know before making the decision

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) - April 30th is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.

Jenn Farmer is the executive director of Southeast Missouri Pets and said before making the big choice there are some things to consider.

Every shelter animal has a past, one that may have included traumatic events.

According to the pet website, ‘Your pet and you,’ you should ask these questions,

• How long has the dog been at the shelter?
• Have they been adopted before? If so, why didn’t it work out?
• Has the dog been to the groomer? How did it go?
• Does the dog allow staff to trim their nails, clean their ears, give them a bath and so on?
• How has the dog interacted with other dogs, other animals, children and strangers?
• Does the dog have any known behavioral issues?
• Does the dog know any commands?
• What kind of personality does the dog have?

Farmer said the facility has been at capacity for quite some time now.

She explained when the right person and right pet meet, it’s a magical feeling you can’t recreate.

Southeast Missouri Pets is closed on Tuesday, April 30, but encourages anybody to reach out and make any day your “Adopt a Shelter Pet Day.”

You can also see animals available for adoption throughout the area each week on Heartland Pets.