October is Adopt-a-Dog Month and Peoria County’s Animal Protection Services (PCAPS) is encouraging animal lovers who are seeking a canine companion to visit the animal shelter this fall. PCAPS has dogs of every type, size, age, and personality waiting for loving homes. The $100 fee to adopt a dog from the shelter includes the spay or neuter of the dog and a microchip.

“Whether you want an exercise buddy, a best friend for your child, a partner in agility competitions, a constant companion for an aging parent, or simply a fuzzy face to greet you after a hard day at work, an adopted dog can be all of these – and more,” explains Lauren Malmberg, Director of Animal Protection Services. “Adopt-a-Dog Month is the perfect time for people to adopt a shelter dog and experience the joy of finding a loving companion.”

Things to consider when adopting a dog include:
•The qualities and personality a dog lover seeks in a pet are more important than a dog’s size or appearance. For example, an older shepherd mix might be more suitable for an apartment than an energetic terrier. Very often the pet that has the desired characteristics comes in an unexpected package.
•Dogs, like small children, are completely dependent on their owners for food, water, exercise, medical attention, shelter, and companionship. Opening your home to a pet can be highly rewarding as long as the owner understands and accepts the daily responsibilities associated with pet ownership.

Visit PCAPS this October to discover how a shelter dog can enhance your life. The public is invited to visit the shelter at 2600 NE Perry Street in Peoria between Noon – 5:00 p.m., Monday – Saturday. For more information, call the shelter at (309) 672-2440 or visit www.peoriacounty.org/pcaps to view animals waiting for new homes.