October is Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month

We should be thinking about adopting pets all year long, but when October rolls around, we have extra motivation. How can you help stop pet overpopulation and promote the pet adoption cause?

1. Adopt. Whether it's a cat or a dog, a mouse or a pig, a cow or a horse, there's a rescue organization for you. When you adopt, your pet's cost includes all necessary vaccinations and sterilization (if age allows). You can often save hundreds adopting a shelter pet than getting a 'free' animal that will end up causing a major dent in your pocketbook to pay for veterinary fees. But above all, adoptiong saves lives.

2. Foster. If your current situation doesn't allow you to adopt at the moment, consider fostering a pet. When you foster an animal, you take care of it until the pet is adopted. Shelters are constantly in need of foster homes, especially for litters and young animals. Older pets need foster homes too, though.

3. Donate. Even if you can't take a pet in, a donation is a perfect way to help. A monetary donation allows the organization to use cash as they wish. If you can't afford to give some money, look through your home for old but gently used towels or blankets that will give pets a softer place to sleep. Contact your local shelter for the supplies they need.

4. Volunteer. And, last but not least, no shelter can operate without volunteers. People of all ages can often volunteer to help out.

5. Visit freekibble.com daily. Also go to freekibblekat.com. Answer the daily trivia question, and whether your response is right or wrong, Halo Pet Foods donates 10 pieces of kibble to animal shelters.

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