Many shelters now provide areas where pets and people can mingle without distractions. Veterinarians often provide neutering services at shelters. Some shelters provide shots free and treat animals for a short period after the adoption. To ensure that love at first sight turns into a lasting relationship, many shelters offer these classes and, for a small fee, dog obedience classes. New pet owners can visit the humane society's free drop-in pet clinic.
Many shelters also operate telephone support lines.
The Animal Humane Society in Minneapolis advises more than 1,000 callers a year on such issues as scratching, jumping and barking. And because happy owners are less likely to give up their pets, the animals must be relieved, too. Brenda Biondo has a soft spot for her adopted lab-chow mix, Lucy. Go to the top Pick the right pet Kids. Children 6 and under do best around animals older than 4 months.