How-to-Adopt a Pet: Oregon Friends of Shelter Animals

Founded in 2002, the Oregon Friends of Shelter Animals has grown exponentially. It has shifted from a self-described "kitchen-table" operation to a full-blown spay and neuter clinic that performed 1000 operations in the last year. In 2015, the shelter found stable and loving homes for almost 2000 dogs and cats, and that's for the second year in a row.

The Oregon Friends of Shelter Animals has a long list of adoptable animals that need a home and different events to help you select the perfect furry friend. Patch breaks down the pet possibilities.

First, let's take a look at the different locations where OFOSA offers pet adoption.

-OFOSA Clinic

Where: 4240 SW 185th, Aloha, OR 97007

When: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday, 12-4pm

Who: Cats and Dogs

-PetSmart - Tanasbourne

Where: 1295 NW 185th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97006

When: Saturday, 12:00pm – 4:00pm (except public and national holidays)

Who: Dogs

-PetSmart - Wilsonville

Where: 8315 SW Jack Burns Blvd. Wilsonville, OR 97070

When: Cats, daily. Dogs, Special Events.

Who: Dogs & Cats

-PetSmart - Hillsboro

Where: 889 NE 25th Ave, Hillsboro, OR 97124

When: Dogs – Every other Saturday 12:00pm – 4:00pm (except public and national holidays)

Cats – Daily===Call for an appointment

Who: Cats & Dogs

Next, let's look at OFOSA's Featured Pet. Meet Patches. (heh, heh)

"Hello my name is Patches, I have a heart of gold. I like to go on walks and play with other dogs. I sometimes forget that I am not supposed to chase cats. I am big on snuggling and love to play with toys and go for rides. I still have some potty accidents, but I am 99% potty trained."

Lastly, let's take a look at the actual adoption process itself. The first step is to complete the Application to Adopt a Pet.

Once you've applied, you can peruse their different Adoptable Dogs or Adoptable Cats and see if any particular animal sticks out to you. Make sure you're prepared to accommodate the cost of adopting a pet: food, toys, veterinary care and kennels can add up quickly, so for more reason than one, choosing to adopt a pet is not a decision to be made lightly.

...was all of this too much? Not quite ready to take on the responsibility of a full-time furry companion? You can also Volunteer with OFSA, and accommodate the animal-lover in you.

Image via Oregon Friends of Shelter Animals