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How It Started
In 1981, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) established Adopt a Shelter Dog Month to raise awareness about the rising number of adult dogs and puppies entering shelters every year. With millions of dogs awaiting adoption in shelters across the country, the goal was simple but powerful: encourage people to consider opening their hearts and homes to these deserving animals.
Over the years, Adopt a Shelter Dog Month has grown beyond just dogs. It now serves as a reminder of the importance of adoption for all pets in shelters, but it continues to shine a special spotlight on dogs. From mixed breeds to purebreds, puppies to seniors, these dogs are often found waiting for someone to give them a second chance at life. Each October, animal welfare organizations and shelters, like Gulf
Coast Humane Society, join together to promote the joy and lifelong benefits of adopting a shelter dog, encouraging potential adopters to meet their new best friend. Adopting a dog isn’t just a chance to save a life—it’s a life changing experience for both the dog and the adopter. Whether you're looking for an energetic playmate, a calm companion, or a devoted family member, there's a shelter dog out there just waiting for their forever home.
Preparing For Adoption
Adopting a dog is an extremely rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend, that's why it is especially important to be prepared before welcoming your companion into their new home! At GCHS we're committed to making sure you have the resources you need to create a warm, welcoming environment for your pet upon adoption. To help make your transition into parenthood smooth and successful, we've put together this adoption preparation checklist to help you know how you can best prepare to welcome home your new furr-ever friend!
Stock Up On Essential Supplies
Food and Water Bowls: Choose durable, easy-to-clean bowls.
Pet Food: Ask the shelter what your pet has been eating and gradually transition to the new food to avoid digestive issues.
Leash, Collar, and ID Tags: Ensure your pet’s collar has identification with your contact details.
Bedding and Crate: Creating a comfortable space for your pet by investing into a comfy bed and sturdy crate is essential. Crate training helps pets view their crate as a safe, comfortable space, aiding in house training, reducing destructive behavior, and providing a sense of security for your pet during their adjustment period.
Toys and Chews: Toys help with mental stimulation and bonding, while chews satisfy your pet’s natural instincts.
Litter Box (for Cats): Make sure it’s placed in a quiet, accessible spot.
Plan for the Transition
Patience is Key: Your pet may be nervous or shy at first. Give them time to adjust to their new surroundings, and be patient as they settle in.
Introduce Slowly: Introduce your pet to family members and other pets gradually to avoid overwhelming them.
Give Them Space: Let your pet explore and take their time to find comfort in their new environment. They may need a few days to adjust to the new smells, sounds, and people.
Establish a Routine
Consistent Feeding Times: Pets thrive on routine. Establish a regular feeding and potty schedule to help your pet adjust.
Exercise: Make a plan for daily exercise! Regular playtime and walks will help burn off energy and reduce behavioral issues.
Designate Responsibilities: If you have a family, make sure everyone knows their responsibilities for caring for the pet (feeding, walking, cleaning, etc.).
By preparing thoroughly, you can ensure that you and your new pet start your life together on the right foot—or paw! Proper preparation helps reduce stress for both you and your pet and lays the foundation for a happy, loving home.
Adoption Process at GCHS
At Gulf Coast Humane Society, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect companion while providing you with the support you need to take the first steps int pet parenthood. Once you decide you want to find your furrever friend, come into our facility where our kennel attendants will work with you to ensure you find the best match for your home and guide you through the entire adoption process.
Once you have met your match and have decided to adopt with us, you will receive six months of heartworm prevention, a starter bag of H-E-B Heritage Ranch food, and a voucher for a free wellness exam at participating veterinarians upon adoption! Every adoptable animal is up to date on vaccinations, spayed/neutered, dewormed, microchipped, and free of parasites such as fleas and ticks. If you fall in love with one of our heartworm-positive dogs, we will provide treatment at no additional cost to you! We also offer a special "Senior for Senior" program—individuals 60 and older can adopt a senior dog (6+ years) for just the cost of heartworm prevention (price varies by weight).
We value placing our pets in homes where they will be loved and respected, which means that all adoptions must be completed in person and are done on a first come first serve basis with no pet holds.
Adoption Events
At Gulf Coast Humane Society, we are deeply committed to fostering connections within our local community to promote the adoption of our furry friends and ensure that every pet has the chance to find a loving home.
We recognize that a diverse range of adoption events each month not only increases visibility for our animals but also creates opportunities for meaningful interactions between potential adopters and pets. By partnering with local businesses, holding re-occurring events such as the Grow Local Farmers Market Adoptions, and enhancing community outreach initiatives, we are able to connect with the community in ways that are invaluable to our mission at Gulf Coast Humane Society. Our thoughtfully designed events foster a welcoming environment that is designed to captivate, inform, and inspire, making it easier for individuals and families to discover the joy of adopting a pet!
Helpful Resources
To learn more about how to prepare for adoption, the adoption process at Gulf Coast Humane Society, Adoptable pets, and upcoming adoption events, please visit the links below!
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