Nothing makes a house feel more like home than a dog . Dogs are a tremendous example of unconditional love . Unfortunately , that love is not always returned or able to be sustained . Many beautiful animals end up in a shelter through no fault of their own — alone , afraid and confused about what they ’ ve done wrong to be sent away . They need a stable , loving home and could make a wonderful holiday gift for the whole family .
If you have a yard or access to a park where a dog can get exercise and fresh air , you don ’ t need a large home to give a dog a great life . Even a small home will look big to a chihuahua or miniature dog breed .
Though often overlooked , older dogs make great companions and may be well-trained and calmer than a younger dog . Rescue dogs can blossom when given the affection they ’ ve been lacking .
As John Grogan said in the movie “ Marley and Me ,” “ A dog has no use for fancy cars or big homes , or designer clothes . A dog doesn ’ t care if you ’ re rich or poor , educated or illiterate , clever or dull . Give him your heart and he will give you his .”
A great place to find your forever friend is at your local animal rescue shelter . Most shelters will ask you to fill out an application and will visit your home to make sure it ’ s safe for you and your dog . You can also have a few visits at the shelter with your chosen dog to make sure you ’ re compatible . These animals may have experienced emotional and physical trauma , so it ’ s essential that their next home is forever .
In our area , Animal Advocates operates a shelter that works to care for animals that have been abandoned or where pet ownership is not verifiable . Animal Advocates is an all-volunteer , no-kill shelter where dogs are placed in volunteer foster homes to await their adoption .
Volunteers are needed as foster pet parents , and for the Animal Advocates Thrift Shop , where all proceeds benefit the animals . Gently used clothing , housewares and pet products may be donated for sale in the shop . The shelter also accepts donations of pet food , cleaning products , and monetary contributions .
If you are able to welcome a pet into your home , it may be the best gift you ’ ve ever received !
For more information on available pets , visit animaladvocates . net . n
Dogs make a house a home .
BRENTWOOD-BALDWIN-WHITEHALL ❘ WINTER 2023 15