Statistics show certain types of pets are less likely to be adopted and are often the first in line to be euthanized in shelters.
These “underdogs” include: Chihuahuas, black pets, adult cats, bashful, senior, only, medical needs, overweight and long stay pets, big dogs, pitbulls and bonded pairs.
Many of them will be overlooked in the adoption process in favor of cute little kittens and playful puppies. Shelters find it difficult to market and place these pets which are each accompanied by various stereotypes based on appearance, age, breed, reputation, etc.
Nonprofits like Michelson Found Animals’ Adopt & Shop, a humane pet adoption store where pets come from local shelters, takes steps to give these hard-to-place pets a second chance at a happy holiday season and new life with a family (www.adoptandshop.org).
This year Adopt & Shop will be hosting a12 Pets of Christmas promotion offering $50 off adoptions throughout the month of December for pets in the tough to place categories.
Would you be interested in featuring images of the 12 Pets of Christmas (below) and info for a local news story? We can also provide an expert to share the top 5 reasons these pets have a hard time finding homes, and some solutions to change the public perceptions.