People think you can’t know what you’re getting

One of the most persistent myths about adopting a pet from the shelter is that you won’t know what you’re getting. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Some cats and dogs available for adoption have been in foster care, so a volunteer has hosted the animal at home and knows a lot more about the animal’s personality and habits than a pet store or even a breeder would.

Even if the animal has only stayed in the shelter, volunteers there can probably tell you about the cat or dog’s temperament. You’ll also get a better sense of the animal’s physical health or behavior than you’d get at a pet store or from a breeder.