Are you trying to find dogs for adoption in Memphis, TN? There is no shortage of adoptable dogs in Memphis, which can be both good and bad. If you’re looking for a dog, it may seem like a positive thing because there’s such a wide variety of dogs to choose from. However, having too many dogs in shelters means that many of them could get put down if they’re not adopted in time. So, when looking for a dog for adoption in Memphis, you could be saving a life while also finding your new best friend.
Where to Find Dogs for Adoption in Memphis TN
If you’re looking for a new dog, you might have no idea where to start. Below are a few places to find adoptable dogs near Memphis.
Memphis Animal Services
Memphis Animal Services (MAS) is an animal shelter in Memphis that’s often crowded with dogs that need forever homes. The shelter doesn’t have enough space or resources to save every dog that comes its way, so sadly, many dogs are put down because the shelter is left with no other options. If you adopt a dog from Memphis Animal Services, you’re saving a dog’s life. Check out the list of dogs in critical need of homes and consider adopting or fostering one to save them from euthanasia.
MAS encourages animal lovers to come to the facility to meet some of the adoptable dogs. By meeting a few dogs in person, you can better determine if any of them are the right fit for you. If you’re not sure if you’re ready to adopt a dog, consider fostering instead so you can temporarily spend time with a dog while still saving their life.
Other Shelters and Rescues
There are several other shelters and rescues in the Memphis area. By visiting their websites, you can see what dogs are available for adoption. Depending on the organization’s rules, you may be able to stop in and meet a few of the dogs to help you decide if any of them are a good fit for you and your lifestyle.
While dogs at crowded shelters are the most in need of homes, adopting from rescues can save lives too. Rescues regularly pull dogs out of kill shelters. Thus, if you adopt a dog from a rescue, you’re freeing up space for them to take in more at-risk dogs.
Petfinder Memphis
Petfinder is a wonderful resource for dog lovers looking for adoptable dogs. Almost all rescues and shelters list their adoptable dogs on Petfinder. So, you can search for dogs near your location to look at all rescues and shelters at once. You can narrow down your search by specifying your desired age, size, and breed of dog.
You can feel good about using Petfinder because all the organizations listed have been screened by the site. Petfinder has in-depth conversations with each organization and checks in with its veterinarian reference. So, all the pets listed are from legit shelters and rescues.
If you don’t see the dog you’re looking for on Petfinder, be patient. There are always new dogs arriving at rescues and shelters, so a dog that piques your interest will likely be available eventually. You can also adjust the distance on Petfinder to see adoptable pets that are further away. Driving far to adopt a pet is worth it to save a life.
Preparing for Adopting a Dog in Memphis
Before deciding to take home one of the dogs for adoption in Memphis, make sure you have enough time, money, and energy to do so. If you adopt a young puppy, they’ll need to be let outside every two hours or so since they can’t hold their bladders long. If you adopt a high-energy dog, you’ll need to commit to long exercise sessions with them daily. Consider those aspects to help you decide if the dog you’re interested in is a pet you can handle right now.
Also, make sure everyone in your household has met the dog and agrees that the dog is a good fit. Everyone in your home should be on the same page about training and expectations for the dog to help set your new family member up for success.
Adopting a dog shouldn’t be a spur of the moment decision. Spend lots of time researching dog care and getting the necessary items before bringing a dog home.
How Much Does it Cost to Adopt a Dog in Memphis?
Dogs that urgently need homes, such as the dogs at MAS, have the cheapest adoption fees. MAS only charges $20 to $40 per dog. That includes spay/neuter, microchips, vaccinations, and some basic supplies, so the shelter isn’t able to earn much from adoption fees.
Other organizations that don’t have dogs at risk of euthanasia may charge more, such as $50 to $300. Spending a couple hundred dollars on a rescue dog might seem like a lot, but those adoption fees are essential donations for some rescues. Without high adoption fees, it might not be possible for them to save more dogs.
If you’re interested in fostering instead of adopting, no fees are required. You can care for the dog for free until they find their forever home. It’s a great option for people who love dogs but can’t afford to have a dog of their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Foster a Dog Before Adopting in Memphis?
It depends on the organization. Some animal organizations may offer foster-to-adopt programs while others prefer their foster parents to be committed to fostering without adopting. For more details, visit the organization’s website or contact them directly.
Can I Adopt a Specific Breed of Dog in Memphis?
Yes, you can adopt specific breeds from shelters and rescues, but you may need to be patient. Dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds end up at shelters and rescues, but there’s never a guarantee of a certain breed. So, check Petfinder regularly and extend your location distance if needed to find the kind of dog you’re looking for.
Why Are Dogs Still Euthanized in Memphis Shelters?
Some Memphis shelters are still euthanizing dogs because they have no other choice. They don’t have enough space and support for all the dogs in their care. They’re so crowded because bad breeders are mass-producing dogs and not enough people are spaying and neutering. If Memphis shelters turn dogs away, those dogs could suffer a more painful death as a result, so they’re put in a very difficult situation.
Are Dogs Allowed in the Memphis Zoo?
No, pets aren’t allowed in the Memphis Zoo. Having pets in the zoo could cause stress to your pet and the zoo animals. Certified service animals are an exception.
Are Dogs Allowed in Bass Pro Memphis?
Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the pyramid-shaped Bass Pro Shop in Memphis. However, if your dog is disturbing other customers, you may be asked to leave.
Unable to Adopt in Memphis? Consider Fostering
Many people love dogs, but not everyone is in a position to take home one of the dogs for adoption in Memphis. If you really want a dog but don’t have the time, money, or resources for one right now, consider fostering instead of adopting. That way, you can spend time with a dog without a long-term commitment. Plus, fostering a dog could save that dog’s life.
If you live in Memphis, please consider fostering one of the adoptable dogs at MAS. Without a home to stay at, these dogs could be put down. Every dog adopted and fostered in Memphis could make a huge impact.
