Thanks Margaret, for the good info in your area.  And folks, while your at these shelters, don't forget about the older dogs and cats.  They may seem a little less inviting, but keep in mind, they had, what they thought was their forever family and now for what ever reason their humans are gone.  They are sad, hurt, scared and confused.  But if you take them home and love them out of their depression, they will reward you big time.

Hi Margaret. I'm with you, in fact, if I lived in your area I'd go with you. Love the pictures. All of my pets have come from shelters or rescue groups. Nicely done. Leslie makes a great point too.

Margaret:  I've already Tweeted, Googled, Suggested ... with the hopes that your information reaches those wanting to take this important and valuable step.  We found our Maggie in a shelter.  We couldn't have hoped for a better companion and friend.  We still miss her.  When the time comes that we feel ready to add to our family once again ... we'll definitely keep your information .. and message ... close.  You do these wonderful pets a great service ...

Gene

Yep ... Maggie.  Or as she quickly was knick-named ... "Moo" by our sons.  Not sure why, but it stuck.  She was the best dog anyone could have ever imagined for our family.  Crazy, loving, sweet, athletic, loyal ... and the list could go on.  We all adored her ... and like I said, we still do and miss her unbelievably.  Just not ready for another one yet ... but you're right.  Some day we will and we'll definitely take the same route as we did to find Maggie.  She wasn't purebred by any stretch of the imagination, but she was "purebred" in so many important ways ...

Have a wonderful Easter, Margaret ...

Gene

We have only adopted one from a shelter, but I've taken in countless strays that would have ended up there.  No matter their age.

Margaret~years ago I helped my very bestfriend (who is ALSO a realtor) pick out the right dog for her kids from a no-kill shelter. It was a wonderful experience and she was the PERFECT MATCH, not only for her kids and husband, but for her (as she always claimed she WASN'T A DOG PERSON). She takes Ruby for walks every day and loves her just as unconditionally as Ruby loves them. She's so funny, because she now calls herself a "dog person". I always KNEW she was!!

Margaret, I love your post!!! Pre-owned animals are the best. I volunteer at the Broward County Animal Care and Adoption Center (previously known as the "pound") and SO many of the animals for adoption are pure breed (in case this is important to anyone). I adopt animals for who they are, not their breed, every life if precious and every animal who has ever lived is like no other.

PS. Thank you so much for re-posting:

HE'S NOT A CHILD'S TOY. HE'S A REAL LIVE TEN-YEAR COMMITMENT!