How Much is That Doggie in the Window?

Dogs of all ages and sizes squirmed, barked, wagged, and danced in happy circles. Foster “parents” of all ages mingled with volunteers, shoppers, animal lovers and potential adopters.

All this took place thanks to Public Animal Welfare Society, known as P.A.W.S., and Dogs Unlimited Rescue, who had an adopt-athon at PetSmart in Golden Gate last Saturday. The focus of the event was twofold: to promote adopting a dog or cat, and to encourage people to get involved helping out through volunteer work.

The benefits of adopting a dog or cat from a foster home are overwhelming. First of all, you get an animal who is a known entity. The foster parents have no ulterior motive in getting you to buy. They are caring for the animal because they want to help, and can wait till the right person comes along.

Most animals are fostered in a household for several weeks if not months before being adopted. That way you will know how they interact with men/women, other dogs, cats and children. You will also know if they are housebroken and have any medical problems.

You have also saved a life. Some animals were found freezing in snow banks, hiding under trash bins, or wandering the roads looking for a way home. Others were abandoned as their owners faced economic difficulties and could no longer care for themselves or their pets.

Animals show gratitude in different ways, but those who have had an unhappy part of their life seem to appreciate the comforts and companionship in a new home more than most.

Adopting or fostering is not the only way to help. Certainly, monetary donations are always welcome, but transporting animals, meeting with the public, grant writing, advertising/marketing are all ways to help.

This event brought people and animals together. Dogs had a place to show off their good manners and outgoing personalities, while volunteers had a chance to catch up with each other, and talk to the public smitten with all the happiness a pet can bring.

Take a closer look at the animals currently in foster homes, and read their stories.

For more information contact, 440-442-PAWS (7297) for all dogs and cats (except Bailey) or Dogs Unlimited Rescue 216-408-4452 www.dogsunlimitedrescue.org (Bailey).