Shelters and rescue organizations both work to find new homes for a variety of different animals. Each strives to do what is best for the animals they have.
Both organizations house animals who came into their care for a variety of reasons. Most rescue organizations require an animal adopted from them be returned to them should the adopter be unable to care for the dog for some reason.
- Owner surrenders – usually due to finances, housing or health (of owner or animal)
- Animal hoarders – animals recovered from these situations are usually taken to local shelters and rescue groups
- Strays – if picked up by a rescue group, are often taken to a shelter where they are held for required amount of time and then returned to rescue group for foster care and adoption services
- Puppy mills – when authorities close puppy mills, area shelters and rescues bare the burden of caring for the puppies, females, and males.
Each entity receives discounted care from area veterinarians. This includes the vaccinations, spay/neuter, flea/tick treatment automatically included in the adoption fees. Various special health needs may also be treated.
Both rely heavily on volunteers to keep their organizations running.
photo credit: FEMA rescue during Red River Valley, ND flooding
