This Is the Perfect Weekend to Adopt a New Furry Friend in Temple

The little goober in the picture above is my dog, Leela. She's cute, energetic, goofy, and sweet, and she's my best friend. Adopting her from the Temple Animal Shelter was one of the best decisions my family has made.

Any time I have an opportunity to encourage pet adoption, especially from local shelters, I'll jump on it. Thankfully, such an opportunity presented itself this week.

'Clear the Shelters' Event in Temple This Weekend

The Temple Animal Shelter has announced that they'll be waiving adoption fees this Saturday, August 14 from Noon to 4 PM.

Summer is a high intake time for the shelter, so they're hoping to find loving, safe forever homes for pets in need so they can ensure there will be room for any more animals that come in.

Who Can Adopt?

If you're age 18 or over, have a valid ID, and can provide a current address, you can adopt a new best friend from the Temple Animal Shelter.

Are There Other Fees?

While the shelter is waiving adoption fees, you may still need to pay for vaccination for your new pet. Plus you'll want to consider microchipping your buddy in case you're ever separated. It can make reuniting the two of you far easier if they're lost.

What Sort of Pets Are Available?

The shelter is currently home to adorable dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes. You can see the pets available for adoption online here, and even visit them at the shelter to spend a little time with them and see if you're compatible.

Ask Yourself Some Questions Before Adopting

Adopting a shelter pet is such a rewarding experience, but you need to ask yourself some important questions before you bring another living creature into your home.

Will you have time to spend with your new pet? Dogs need plenty of play, walks, and affection, and even cats need someone around to play and cuddle with. Does your schedule allow you time to devote to your new friend so they're not just lying around bored all day?

Can you afford to feed and care for a pet right now? They'll obviously need food, but also think about the medical care they may need, plus flea and heartworm prevention treatments.

Is anyone in your home allergic? It'd be absolutely tragic to invite an excited dog into your home, get their hopes up, then have to take them back to the shelter because someone in your household is allergic.

Can you provide a safe, stable home for your new friend? They'll be counting on you for the basics, including a stable place to call home.

Again, I'm all for folks adopting shelter animals because they make great, loving pets, but I also hate to see them surrendered back to the shelter because someone wasn't really prepared to provide them with everything they need.

If you're ready to adopt a furry friend, visit the Temple Animal Shelter at 620 Mama Dog Circle this Saturday. You won't be sorry!