From the Dumb Friends League (Denver, Colorado 80231; Castle Rock, Colorado 80109)
In the animal world, October is known as Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month—a month dedicated to increasing awareness of the millions of shelter dogs looking for homes across the country.
Dogs like Tilly, a blind, 10-year-old Maltese mix, and Max, a 1-year-old, three-legged boxer, are given a second chance for happiness, along with thousands of other homeless dogs, at the Dumb Friends League. The League provides each dog, regardless of age or condition, with compassionate care and customized treatment at its two shelters.
Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month is also a time to debunk a number of misconceptions about shelter pets. For example, many people think that dogs are brought to shelters because they did something “wrong.” That typically isn’t true. A majority of the pets in our care are surrendered due to “people reasons,” like having to move, allergies, or a lack of time or money to care for a pet.
While behavior problems can occasionally be a reason that pets are surrendered, most issues can be resolved with proper training and extra time and attention from the pet’s owner. Many dog “problems” actually are common canine behaviors that were most likely not understood by the previous owner.
For dogs in our care that need a little extra TLC, the Dumb Friends League provides in-shelter training programs to help them become better candidates for adoption. For example, Head Start teaches good behavior to our more challenging young adult dogs, and Canine Courage is specifically geared toward helping timid and under-socialized canines. We also offer free behavior advice through our Pet Behavior Helpline to all dog owners—whether you have adopted from us or not—in order to curb undesirable behaviors and keep people and pets living happily together.
If you’re looking for your next best furry friend, we encourage you to choose the adoption option. From Oct. 1 through Oct. 25, we’ll take $50 off the adoption fee for all dogs 1 year and older. This adoption special is sponsored by Hill’s Science Diet®. By adopting one of our homeless dogs, you will not only be providing a loving home to a grateful pet, but you will help open up space for another homeless pet in need at our shelters.