By Brenda Biondo utting some of their cutest canines and cats on the Internet is just one way animal shelters are reaching out to potential pet owners. A growing number also are extending their services by offering obedience classes, pet supplies, even on-site veterinary care. Since August, the Pennsylvania SPCA shelter in Philadelphia has found homes for every one of more than 50 dogs showcased on its Web site, using live Internet cameras. And Web browsers are biting. Two dozen shelters nationwide, from Bothell, Wash., to Nicholasville, Ky., now use Web cameras, and more than 30 others soon will.
Shelters face tough competition.
Most people use breeders, classified ads or a network of co-workers, family and friends to find their pets. That leaves 8 million animals in 4,000-plus shelters every year. Overcrowding can be a problem. Shelters must euthanize millions of animals each year to make room for more. Shelters can help you find a pet that fits your lifestyle and expectations.