CBS 3 Pet Project: Advice For Adopting Shelter Pets

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- If you're in the market for a new pet it can be tough to walk down the aisle of a shelter without wanting to rescue every single dog and cat you see.

Like people, animals have different temperaments and needs so it's important to figure out what kind of pet will work best for you and your family.

One way to do this is to stop by the adoption desk when you visit the Pennsylvania SPCA and explain your lifestyle. Some important things to consider might be whether you live in a house or apartment; if you have a fenced in yard; and if you have young children. Other things to consider is whether you have an active lifestyle and are hoping to adopt a dog that can accompany you on runs or hiking trips. Shelter staff should be able to help families find the right pet for them.

"You also want to make sure when you're coming in you bring your whole family with you. Make sure the kids are here so they can be part of the decision-making process and we can see how the animal does with them," explained Deanne Schmidt, manager of adoptions at PSPCA. "And if you're adopting a dog and you have another dog at home you need to bring your dog along with the shot records so we can make sure your dog is safe from catching anything from the shelter and that our dogs are safe from catching anything from your dog."

Schmidt says having the dogs do a meet-and-greet in the shelter doesn't take the place of slow introductions at home but it's a good indication of whether the dog is going to be a good fit for the family and their current pets.

It's also a good idea to spend some time with the pet in the shelter to make sure they are the right fit. Try out a few commands with shelter staff nearby and see if the dog is starting to warm up to you and your family.