October 5th

By Mutt Mulligan

Happy Adopt-ober from TurfMutt

October is a big month for reminding potential pet owners to adopt. In fact, two organizations – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and American Humane Association (AHA) each host month-long events in October to help remind people about the shelter dogs awaiting their fur-ever homes. ASPCA sponsors Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month and American Humane Association has Adopt-a-Dog Month.

As a rescue dog himself, TurfMutt knows first-paw the benefits of a homeless pet getting a second leash on life with an adopted family. He is now pawing it forward by encouraging other people to adopt a pet in need.

If you’re not in the market for a new furry family member, there are still ways you can support homeless dogs this October.

• Share the message, “adopt, don’t shop” with your friends and family who might be looking for a new pet.
• Consider fostering a dog that is being cared for by a local shelter or rescue group. Socialization in a home environment can make a big difference in a dog’s ability to get adopted successfully.
• Spay or neuter your dog if you haven’t already to help control the pet population.
• Donate to your local shelter or rescue group. They are always looking for volunteers, as well as supplies like dog food, blankets, beds and toys. Many have a wish list, so call ahead to determine the biggest current need.
• Post messages about dog adoption – and share your own adoption success story! – on your social media channels using the hashtag #adoptdontshop.

Want to see more inspiring stories of dogs being rescued from the shelter and given a chance at happily ever after? Watch Lucky Dog, part of the “CBS Dream Team, It’s Epic!” block of programming on Saturday mornings. TurfMutt messages about living landscapes are often featured on the show!