Animal shelters are not the happiest of places. I used to dread visiting them when looking for a dog because I knew that all those sweet faces staring back at me would break my heart and I’d want to bring them all home. But then I gave myself a talking to, sucked it up and volunteered at the Weatherford/Parker County Animal Shelter to take pictures of pups for the Democrat and the shelter’s Pet Finder web site.

My first visit was difficult, but after seeing the result of the featured dogs finding homes I was encouraged. As I began to learn more about the shelter it became easier to visit. The employees there genuinely care about the animals brought in and do everything in their power to give them every chance for adoption, and they truly rejoice when they do find homes.

There is a stigma that comes with shelter dogs that is hard to shake. People are apprehensive to go to the shelters because the perception that there is something wrong with the dog or it wouldn’t be there.

You see, dogs are in shelters because there is something wrong with people. The dog had nothing to do with it. They had no say in the matter.

The sad truth is that many people give up dogs for no good reason. They are disposable. In fact, the number one reason people give up their dog is because the cute, cuddly and adorable puppy grew into a rambunctious one-year old. Like any youngster, the puppy now requires more time, attention, training and love.

Other reasons dogs end up homeless are because someone leaves a gate open and doesn’t bother to look for the dog that got out, thought was not given to whether or not their home was pet-friendly, a baby is on the way and they fear their dog may become jealous or they won’t have time for it, allergies have developed, renters have been evicted and left their dog behind, the dog is too old or too much work… the list goes on. There are some valid reasons for giving up a dog to a shelter, but most of the time sweet and loving dogs are given up for selfish reasons.

I still visit the Weatherford Animal Shelter to take pictures most weeks. I’ve even adopted a dog and a cat from there recently and they’re both doing great. It’s sad to see so many perfectly good dogs and cats brought in daily, but we’re encouraged that the adoption numbers seem to be rising. It’s financially feasible as well. All pets adopted are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped for a very reasonable price.

So, I want to encourage you to look first in shelters the next time you need a furry friend. You will be amazed at the wonderful array of perfectly good dogs there just waiting for their forever home. The dogs there have known abandonment, abuse, or neglect and are so grateful for any attention paid to them. You will discover that with a little extra time and love, it will be the best dog of your life.

Life lesson I’ve learned from my dogs: If it’s not wet and sloppy, it’s not a real kiss!