As you begin looking at pets available through rescue groups, keep in mind some of these animals have had very hard lives. You may find a dog that was abused by its owner and so has some lingering issues.

You may find a female cat that has just given birth.  Many of the animals offered by rescue groups have been relinquished by their owners because they are moving or can no longer care for them.

In addition, some of these groups take animals that live in kill shelters, or as strays living on the streets. Some programs also offer spay and neuter release program for wild cats.

Some cats can be taken off the street and can get good homes, but need time and patience, and to be carefully screened for disease before they can go near any other animal, or even people.

Rescue groups do quite a good job of screening animals before adopting them out to new homes. They also screen potential pet owners. If you find a pet offered through a pet rescue group, you will be asked to sign a contract saying that you agree to care for the pet long term. You will also be asked several questions about your home, your children and other pets you may have. This is not to be nosey–it is simply to help match an owner with the right pet.

If the animal suffers from a medical condition, such as diabetes, the new owners will know this up front before adopting. Having the animal’s health history at the time of adoption helps the animal find a permanent home with owners willing to cater to their special needs.

When you adopt, you might also be asked for a letter of reference from your vet.  Again, this is to determine if you are a responsible pet owner. There is nothing worse for a shelter or rescue group than dogs who just keep coming back in because the adoption does not work out for one reason or another.