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Pet Adoption Hurdles Irk Would-Be Owners

Animal shelters need to make process more friendlier, critics say

By Laurel Jorgensen,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 24, 2008 9:50 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Animal shelters are hitting would-be pet owners with a vetting process they say puts them on a short leash, the Chicago Tribune reports. Prospective owners often face pages of queries on condo rules, finances, marital status—and even home visits. “We got a lecture about how having a dog is a big responsibility,” said one Chicagoan seeking a dog with her boyfriend. “I felt like my mom was talking to me.”

Many shelter operators say such scrutiny ensures that the pet won’t be returned. But with millions of pets euthanized each year, some in the business ask if a friendlier adoption process might help. “There’s no question that these organizations have the best interests of the animals at heart,” said a former shelter volunteer, “but they shouldn’t be playing God.”

Sabrina and Josh Watson of Fort Worth, Texas, bring in two shephard-husky puppies they found hoping they will be adopted at the Humane Society.
Sabrina and Josh Watson of Fort Worth, Texas, bring in two shephard-husky puppies they found hoping they will be adopted at the Humane Society.   (KRT Photos)
Three to four million pets are adopted every year, but about the same number are euthanized, the Humane Society of the US says.
Three to four million pets are adopted every year, but about the same number are euthanized, the Humane Society of the US says.   (Getty Images)
A Lhasa Apso gets his severely matted hair trimmed in the admitting department of the Humane Society in Fort Worth, Texas.
A Lhasa Apso gets his severely matted hair trimmed in the admitting department of the Humane Society in Fort Worth, Texas.   (KRT Photos)
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