Please consider all the circumstances in your life before adopting a dog.  Falling in love with a puppy or dog is easy to do.  Having a canine companion can be one of life's greatest joys.  But adoption means a commitment to the animal for the rest of its' life.  This can mean a 15 or 20 year commitment, so please make a thoughtful decision.  Our canine companions provide us with unconditional loyalty and love.  But don't forget that besides food & water, they will need regular exercise, grooming, and an understanding human companion.  Please ask yourself the following questions before deciding to adopt a dog:

	Is it possible that I may move to a location where I cannot have a dog?
	Is it possible that I won't have time to walk or exercise a dog?
	Is it possible that at some point, I may not have the money to take care of a dog?
	Is it possible that once I have a child, I will no longer have time for a dog?
	Is it possible that a dog's barking/chewing will make me want to return the dog?

 If you have answered "yes" to any of the questions above, please consider fostering a dog first.  Many of the organizations on our website desperately need foster homes.   If however you are ready to adopt, please see our links page which lists 12 area shelters and 23 rescue groups throughout the capital region.  There are hundreds of dogs (and cats) in the care of these organizations waiting for their forever homes.  Some can't wait to run and play.  Others can't wait to just snuggle up by your feet.  But they are all waiting to be loved.