Dog Adoption and Dog Rescue in Los Angeles - The Bumper Foundation | Helping animals achieve that which they cannot do for themselves

Every pet deserves a home and every home deserves a good pet.

We here in BUMPERVILLE have been getting an unusually high volume of calls from people who no longer want their animal and want to surrender their animal. We are being overwhelmed with requests.

Responsible Pet ownership requires more than simply agreeing to take an animal into yourlife; the potential adopter should be ready to make a commitment that will enhance the lives of both the human and the animal. Bumper strongly suggests you consider the follollowing before you consider bringing a dog into your home.

With nearly 10 million animals entering local shelters across the country each year the Adopt a Shelter Dog Month helps focus attention on the pet population problem we face in this country.

In a recent study conducted by the National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy, researchers surveyed people turning animals in to 12 various shelters around the country to try to find our exactly why animals end up there. The study was published in the current issue of the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, and can be seen at The ASPCA’s Web site (http://www.aspca.org).

The study’s researchers reviewed reasons why people gave up their dogs up for adoption, and found the following frequency of answers:

According to The ASPCA, people bringing a companion animal into their lives need to thoroughly review their lifestyle and their readiness to take responsibility for the animal’s care. The ASPCA advises people to consider the five questions below before they adopt a dog:

1. Am I ready to make a long-term commitment? Adopting a pet means being responsible for it’s health and happiness for the rest of his or her life, which could be up to 15 years for dogs.

2. Is the animal right for my household? A strong, active pet may be too much for a young child or elderly person to handle. Small pets may be too delicate for rough play with children. Always make sure that everyone in the household agrees to adopt an animal.

3. Who will be the primary caretaker for the animal? One adult in the home should be designated as the primary caretaker so that the pet’s needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.

4. Can I afford the animal? The cost of a pet is more than just the purchase price or adoption fee; remember to include the cost of food, pet supplies, veterinarian bills and training.

5. Am I ready to commit to making this dog a good canine citizen? A well-trained dog is a pleasure and is welcome in public parks, on walks, and as a visitor. Research shows that people who take the time to train their dogs are more likely to keep them longer than people who don’t.