Shelters Humane societies, animal shelters and other rescue groups provide refuge to millions of homeless dogs each year. These include the Humane Society of the United States, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and shelters and pounds in your local area. When a dog matching your needs comes in, most shelters will contact you. It's also a good idea to check back time to time, as volunteers have only so much time to match people and pets. When you find a puppy you like, you'll probably have to undergo an application process that includes questionnaires, supervised interaction with the dog and, if you're a renter, a check with your landlord.
Most facilities screen their applicants for compatibility with the chosen animal.
The shelters are eager to place pets, but they want to make sure they go to suitable homes. Fees vary by type of facility, and almost all require that animals be spayed or neutered before adoption. Privately owned shelters usually offer owner-relinquished animals, no strays. The advantage to this is that you get a bit more of the animal's background and medical history. Breeders Buying a puppy from a breeder is another option, particularly for people who want to show their dogs.