At Dan’ Pet Care, we love the “adopt, don’t shop” movement for many reasons. For one thing, around 1.5 million shelter animals are killed every year in the US. Adoption is great for dogs because it keeps them out of shelters and off streets, and gives them a chance to enjoy a loving home. 

For owners, adoption is less expensive than purchasing a dog from a shop or breeder. Shelter dogs have often undergone some healthcare procedures already, such as vaccinations and spaying or neutering. And although you can definitely find some purebred dogs at the shelter, mixed-breed dogs do tend to be healthier and live longer, and they can be a great choice.

If you’re interested in adopting a dog on Long Island, you’ve got plenty of great choices. Thinking about adding a pet to your household? Check out our list of a few top Long Island spots where you can adopt a dog. Even if you’re not ready to add to your household just yet, consider donating to or volunteering at one of these shelters to help Long Island pets find their permanent homes.

Top 5 Shelters to Adopt a Dog on Long Island

• The North Shore Animal League

• Forgotten Friends of Long Island Animal Rescue

• The Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter

• Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter

• Bobbi and the Strays

The North Shore Animal League

At the North Shore Animal League, you’ll find a team that’s dedicated to no-kill procedures. This organization has been around since 1944 and has prevented over 1,100,000 animal deaths. There’s no appointment needed to visit, so stop in today and see the animals available for adoption. You can also help their cause by becoming a social media volunteer, fostering a pet, or volunteering at the facility.

Forgotten Friends of  Long Island Animal Rescue

Forgotten Friends of Long Island is a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding new homes for rescued animals. You can adopt both dogs and cats here, and their focus is on helping animals that may have been rejected or neglected by other shelters. Many of these pets were headed for euthanasia before Forgotten Friends stepped in. You can make an appointment to see a pet here and ask the volunteer staff any questions you might have.

The Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter

The Town of North Hempstead Animal Shelter is passionate about providing shelter pets with the best possible experience while in their care. They provide professional training to all volunteers so that dogs are properly handled at all times. They’re also trained to provide quality, compassionate advice for potential owners about their choice to adopt a dog. This animal shelter is tireless when it comes to fundraising so they can provide quality food, toys, and other supplies to shelter pets. 

Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter

At the Town of Brookhaven Animal Shelter, you’ll find plenty of pets who are ready for a new home. You can get started by filling out a Matchmaker application, and a staff member will get in touch with you about next steps. This shelter also offers free clinics so both dogs and cats can get their rabies vaccinations and other essential shots. Check out the shelter’s special events for additional ways to get involved.

Bobbi and the Strays

Bobbi and the Strays is a nonprofit organization that helps match pets with loving homes, and provide the support and rehabilitation they need while they wait. In addition to shelter and adoption services, they provide community education to support quality of life for all Long Island dogs and their owners.

Before you adopt . . . 

As soon as you visit a shelter, it’s easy to fall instantly in love with a dog you meet. While this is a beautiful part of the adoption process, it’s important to think through your limitations before you go out looking for dogs. Taking a new pet home is a big commitment, and it’s traumatic when a dog cycles in and out of animal shelters. Make sure you’re prepared for the long haul before bringing your new friend home. Some factors to consider include:

• How much space do you have at home, and how will this impact which dog size is right for you?

• If you have kids or other pets, will they adapt well to a new dog?

• Are you financially prepared to add another pet to the household?

• What’s your plan for dealing with any behavioral issues your new dog might have?

• Are you prepared to take on a pet with trauma in their background who needs an extra degree of care?

• If you’re thinking about adopting a puppy, how much bigger are they expected to grow?

• How many years do you expect your new dog to live, and are you prepared for this level of commitment? 

Be honest with yourself about the type of dog that’s best for your situation. Maybe you’ve always thought Siberian Huskies are beautiful. However, if you already own a Chihuahua that doesn’t get along with other dogs, a smaller breed might be a safer option as your second pet.

Remember, if you’re not prepared to add a permanent new pet to your home, you’ve got other options. You can often provide temporary foster care to shelter dogs in need. Of course, volunteering and donation are great ways to get involved, too.

Need some help with your new dog?

When you add a new dog to your household, they’ll need care, grooming, socialization, exercise, and training in order to thrive. Dan’s Pet Care is Long Island’s leading pet care provider, and we offer a full range of services to handle all of your pet care needs. Give us a call today at (516) 551-1613 and find out what we can do for you!