The Puppy Pool Party organized by Amarillo Animal Management & Welfare (AAMW), took place on Saturday, August 23 at the Shelter located at 3502 S. Osage, and was a huge success, as reported by Kali Dennis, AAMW Adoption Manager. “It marks the peak of the annual Clear the Shelters campaign during August, and it’s a lot of fun for both the dogs and the staff,” she mentioned.
More than 200 dogs and cats have found new homes this month,” Dennis mentioned. “Over 10 dogs were adopted today, along with many cats. There’s still time until this Saturday, August 31.stfor us to reach our target of 350 and ensure the pets have suitable homes.
At the Clear the Shelters event, all adoption fees have been eliminated. Individuals still undergo a review process, but they can leave with a new pet that is up-to-date on vaccinations, has a microchip, and is in good health. “Each adoption creates an opening for another animal to be adopted, so by adopting one, you’re helping save multiple animals,” Dennis explained.
She mentioned that the backgrounds of many pets are unclear, meaning individuals should spend time with their new companion to help them become accustomed to their new environment and feel at ease. Certain pets might require training, and the majority need to establish a routine. It’s advisable to be patient and allow the animal sufficient time to adapt.
Dennis mentioned that the Puppy Pool Party was successful in various aspects. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with the animals, taking them to a splash zone inside the boundary, or another pool area, simply walking around and playing with a dog.
A lively female dog named Tigerita — named for her stripes — enjoyed diving headfirst into the small pool, splashing around, playing, and receiving tummy rubs. She was well-trained to avoid jumping on guests and had lots of energy and affection to offer.
Dennis brought in a dog named Judy, who has spent the most time at the shelter with 97 days. “She’s very kind and well-behaved and needs a forever home,” she mentioned.
Judy’s biography indicates that she enjoys Milk Bones and quality dental chews. She is very active and can entertain herself for extended periods. Judy is somewhat shy but quickly comes running with her tail wagging. She has been working as a test dog at AAMW, interacting with many new friends daily. According to her story, she often curls up and rolls around like an armadillo when excited. Additionally, she likes to keep a chair warm for a human companion.
In the cat section, Magpie was being displayed while being touched and cherished by Raquele Secoy. A small black kitten, who had already been adopted and was waiting for its vaccinations and spaying, was sleeping inside a small glove box.
Over 40 volunteers attended the pool event on Saturday to walk the dogs and engage with them, providing them a chance to leave their cages and enjoy some freedom and recreational time, as well as to connect with people.
Numerous research studies indicate that owning a pet can positively impact a person’s health and overall well-being. For many older individuals, having a pet provides a purpose to nurture and care for another being, which can contribute to lower blood pressure, increased physical activity, and reduced feelings of depression. Kids can also develop a sense of responsibility if they are guided properly in caring for an animal. Pets offer unwavering affection to their owners and can be valuable in times of crisis as well.
Vendors at the pool party outside included Nothing Bundt Cakes; Rebel Rescue, which provides transportation services; and Ready, Set, Rescue, which displays reptiles and other animals, as well as demonstrates how to handle them.
Dennis mentioned that individuals interested in adoption should understand the dedication and obligations required. “If you’re introducing a new pet into your home and you already have other pets, you should feed them separately and avoid leaving the new one unattended, particularly if it’s smaller or younger,” she explained. She added that the pet should be kept in a crate or a separate part of the house to avoid any negative situations.
Points to keep in mind before you welcome a new dog or cat into your home
- Bringing a new pet into your life requires dedication and accountability. Make sure you have the time, financial resources, and either a fence or the capability to walk your dog or let them go outside multiple times each day. Research the specific breed of the dog. Some breeds require more energy than others.
- Ensure there are appropriate spaces for your dog on days with extreme heat or cold. Ideally, they should be indoors in a comfortable area, rather than exposed to the weather.
- Instruct young children to show respect towards animals and avoid teasing or handling them improperly.
- The cost of animal food, medical treatments, and care can be significant. Make sure you have a reliable method to handle emergencies and unexpected situations, as well as regular care and vaccinations. Many shelters offer specific dates when they provide shots at a low or no cost, and vouchers may also be available. Some shelters can assist with food when needed.
- Ensure your dog or cat always has access to food and a safe place to stay. They should not be restricted with chains or placed in hazardous locations.
- When bringing a puppy into your home, it’s important to start training it not to jump on kids. As the dog matures, it might accidentally knock over the child and could end up being abandoned or returned to the shelter. The same applies to teaching a puppy to go outside or use a pad for bathroom needs. Puppies typically need to go out shortly after eating or drinking.
- Keep a collar equipped with identification tags, along with vaccination tags. If someone accidentally leaves a gate open, or if the pet manages to escape, having these tags makes it easier to locate the animal.
- If you own a fence, ensure it is sturdy and does not provide enough space beneath it for a small dog to slip through. If a picket is damaged or missing, it should be replaced. Make sure your gate is both secure and solid.
- Think about welcoming a senior dog into your home if you’re looking for a calmer companion. Older dogs still have plenty of energy and affection to offer. Adopted dogs often show great appreciation towards their new owners.
Pets are considered part of the family and should be treated as such. They have the ability to provide many years of happiness, pleasure, and entertainment for you and your family or even for an individual.
The Amarillo Animal Welfare & Management shelter operates from Tuesday to Saturday, between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., and can be found at 3501 S. Osage.
This piece first was published in the Amarillo Globe-News:Over 200 animals are given a new opportunity for a happy life through the Amarillo Clear the Shelters initiative.
