Looking for a one-of-a-kind pet?

Looking for a one-of-a-kind pet?

Many individuals avoid looking at shelters when seeking a new dog or cat to join their family because they believe some of the common myths about shelter animals. Before adopting my dog from the HSOTC in 2009, I had my fair share of preconceived notions about rescue dogs that proved to be false. Allow me to debunk some of the most widely held myths.

Myth 1: "They're all faulty merchandise." While some shelter dogs and cats have been neglected or abused, the great majority are brought into the shelter due to human concerns rather than animal ones. Many beloved, well-adjusted pets are surrendered because of a death, a change in health, a divorce, a work change, a move, or a new birth that makes it impossible for them to care for the pet.

Myth 2: "I'll have to jump through hoops to adopt from the shelter." Despite the fact that the HSOTC has an application/screening process, the shelter staff works hard to locate the best possible homes for our dogs and cats. Our primary objective is to ensure that all adoptees are a good fit, totally dedicated, and prepared to care for their new pet for the rest of its life.

Myth #3: "Shelter animals are costly." Adoption fees for cats range between $50 and $80, and for dogs between $125 and $350, and include vaccinations, heartworm testing, microchip implant, and spay/neuter. These costs are far lower than what you would pay if you purchased an animal from another source. Our rigorous vetting procedure also assures that the HSOTC dogs and cats are among the healthiest available.

Myth #4: "All of the cats and dogs at shelters are mixed breeds." If you want a purebred dog, there are lots of breed-specific rescues to look into, and it's also worth noting that we get a lot of purebred dogs and cats into the shelter right here in Otter Tail County. If you have a certain breed, qualities, size, sex, or other characteristics that you want to see in your future pet, we urge that you fill out an application and tell us WHAT you are searching for. As a result, when the desired animal is accepted, you will be pre-approved and at the top of our list of potential adopters.

Nothing beats the excitement of adopters who believe they know precisely what they want, only to discover that their dream dog or cat is nothing like the one they anticipated. Come to our shelter with an open mind, and let them CHOOSE YOU! Check out our adoptable animals on a regular basis at humanesocietyotc.org.