The Bibb Animal Shelter in Macon is scrambling to find homes for their animals following a quarantine which was recently lifted. If you are interested in adopting a pet, head to the shelter's website. In this post, guest blogger Rebecca Guinn CEO of LifeLine Animal Project provides tips on adopting a shelter pet.

October is national Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog month, reminding us of the thousands of dogs and puppies – and cats and kittens – that enter Georgia’s animal shelters every year. When adding a furry friend to your household, your local shelter is a great resource for finding the perfect companion. Here are a few tips.

Do A Little Homework.

With many different cats and dogs to choose from, it’s important to find a pet that fits your lifestyle. Ask yourself, “How often am I home?” to see if a puppy, an adult dog or a cat is the best choice. Assess your living space and neighborhood to determine the pet’s opportunities for exercising and socializing. Note your experience with pet training and any potential allergies, as some pets shed more than others.

Next, research your local shelters, which often have online resources so you can begin your search right from home or the office. For example, Fulton County Animal Services (FCAS) and DeKalb County Animal Services (DCAS), which are managed by LifeLine Animal Project, feature adoptable animals on their website and social media pages.

Make The Most Of Your Shelter Visit.

Once you arrive, utilize the help of an adoption counselor. They are experts in their field who can introduce you to the pets you’ve seen online as well others who may be a great fit.

In the shelter’s designated play area, devote at least 15-20 minutes to getting to know each pet. Bring all family members who will be involved in the pet’s care so they can bond with the dog or cat, see how responsive he or she is and gauge the pet’s energy levels and temperament. At FCAS and DCAS, you can even bring your other dogs, so they can also connect with the potential pet.

Prepare For The Transition.

After finding the perfect new addition, you’ll receive an adoption application. FCAS and DCAS provide new owners with a variety of resources to help with the transition, including pet care tips, medical information, and a coupon for a free first vet visit.

Ensure your home is pet-friendly before you visit the shelter, since you might take home an animal that day. Designate a special area with treats, food and water bowls, toys and a bed. Don’t forget sanitation supplies, a leash and a collar! It’s also a good idea to have selected a veterinarian and to license your pet.

For more on how to find the right shelter pet check out these previous Tails of the City Posts: