Currently, more than 1,100 shelters participate in the site. Much like petfinder.org , this site directs potential adopters to a shelter in their area. The individual shelter is responsible for screening the adopter and the adoption process. Petshelter.org makes a point of advising participating shelters of possible problems once a potential adopter comes looking for a new pet. Animals can be vulnerable, and shelters need to take precautions.
Veterinarians can help guide potential adopters in the right direction.
The AVMA Committee on the Human-Animal Bond believes veterinarians should be involved in the pet selection process and encourages potential pet owners to see a veterinarian before adopting a pet. Most veterinarians would be happy to set up a consultation with a potential pet owner and discuss the pet selection process, from types of animals to their family lifestyle. The AVMA distributes outlines for consultations, and brochures on pet selection for veterinarians to review with potential clients. Dr. Golab said that before adopting a pet, the prospective adopter must meet the animal they're interested in. Adopters must make sure that the animal they saw online matches the one at the shelter, and that its characteristics, special needs, and health have been represented accurately.