There's no question that it's hard to resist those sad puppy dog eyes peering out from behind the cage bars at the local animal shelter. Many people find the perfect loyal companions to share their lives at local shelters and humane societies.

Most dogs at shelters are adults and mixed breeds, although there are some puppies and purebreds as well. However, all of them need good homes, which is the best reason to adopt a dog from a shelter.

Inspect the Habitat
Before you look at the pets, check out the shelter facility. Ask questions about how long the pets are kept, whether staff members perform behavioral testing, and what their policies are for spaying and neutering. The people at the shelter should be friendly and knowledgeable, and they should be able to answer most of your questions.

When you tour the facilities, make sure the environment looks tidy and well ventilated. Most shelters are reputable establishments, but if a facility seems unsanitary or if you don't feel comfortable with the staff, look somewhere else. You may find the perfect pet at a shelter in another town nearby.

New Leash on Life
Before you start looking at dogs, make a list of the traits youre looking for in a pet. If you find a pet who looks clean and healthy and meets your criteria at the shelter, ask if you can play with the dog outside her cage.

When you get a dog from the shelter, youre giving her a second chance with a family. The shelter staff can usually give you some information about the dogs history, and they should be able to tell you about her health and personality.

Keep in mind that shelters offer only adoptable dogs. Although some may have mild behavioral problems ranging from fear of noises to excessive barking, dogs who are known to be violent are euthanized.

Most shelters require adopted animals to be spayed or neutered either before they leave the shelter or within a specified time. Depending on the shelter, they might provide free or discounted vaccinations or spaying and neutering procedures. You normally pay an adoption fee for shelter pets, but it's still cheaper than buying a pet from a pet store or breeder and sometimes the animal is healthier coming from a shelter.

Consider giving a shelter dog a chance. If you find your new companion at a shelter, you walk away knowing you may have saved your precious pet from an untimely death.