The best place to adopt a cat or dog is Broward County Animal Care and Adoption, which has two Adoption Centers located in Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach. In addition, Pet Supermarket locations throughout Broward County offer cats from the Broward County shelters for adoption, of all ages, breeds and sizes.

Caring for a companion animal goes far beyond providing food, water and shelter. It’s smart to do your research and plan carefully before bringing a dog or cat into your home. Visiting this Web site is an excellent first step. Take this quick quiz to determine if you’re ready to be a responsible pet owner.

1. ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A LONG-TERM COMMITMENT?

[  ] Yes [  ] No

Dogs can live from 10-15 years, and cats for up to 20 years, so your pet may be with you for a very long time. You may go through many changes in your life during this time. You may move to a new city or a new home, marry or divorce, have children or take a new job. But your animal will be a permanent part of your life. And since dogs and cats can bond deeply with their families, it can be heartbreaking for the pet – and for the family – should that bond be broken.

2. CAN YOU SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH AN ANIMAL?

[  ] Yes [  ] No

Canines thrive on several hours of exercise and companionship every day, and dogs that are constantly left alone can develop behavioral problems. Cats are healthiest and happiest indoors, with their human families. Felines who live outside face dangers from other animals and people, and may prey on wildlife.

3. WILL YOU BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR PET'S HEALTH AND SAFETY?

[  ] Yes [  ] No

The cost of owning a dog or cat is more than the initial adoption fee! You’ll need to buy an annual Pet License or microchip to help reunite you with your pet in case it becomes lost or stolen. You’ll need to care for your pet using the services of a veterinarian, possibly on an emergency basis. You’ll need to buy your pet bedding, toys, food and other supplies. (View Chart – Annual Cost of Maintaining a Pet below).

4. DO YOU KNOW WHAT KIND OF PET IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

[  ] Yes [  ] No

A dog or cat should be carefully selected, based on the needs of your household. Dogs and cats are not right for every household. Apartments or condominiums may have restrictions about pet ownership. Family members may experience allergic reactions to pets. Large dogs may be unhappy in a small home, without room to exercise and play. They may too strong or active for small children, while small pets may be too delicate for young children. Research your options in advance, or ask shelter staff which animals they recommend for your household – they’re experts at making perfect matches!

5. ARE YOU WILLING TO INVEST TIME AND MONEY IN TRAINING YOUR ANIMAL?

[  ] Yes [  ] No

Basic training helps dog owners communicate better with their pets and strengthens the human-animal bond. Research shows that people who train their dogs are more likely to keep them. View Training Classes Available.

For cat owners, understanding a cat's behavior can be like learning another language! It is important to know what is normal behavior, as well as how to correct inappropriate behaviors.

COST OF MAINTAINING A PET

How much is that doggie or kitty in the shelter window actually going to cost you? In addition to initial adoption fees, there are other expenses the average pet owner will incur within a year. Here’s an estimate of annual costs for caring for your pet.

Notes: Food cost based on use of premium brand dry kibble.
Medical cost estimates include annual exam, vaccinations and heartworm medications.
Cat litter costs assume scoopable litter, scooped daily.