Whether pure-bred or mixed, there are dogs being thrown away every day who deserve a good home and would make wonderful pets. Although there's nothing cuter than a young puppy, remember that rescues come in all ages and all sizes. Sometimes an adult dog can make a faster and smoother adjustment to living in a new family, and if you choose wisely they're already house-broken and responsive to direction. Here are some guidelines that will help an adoption succeed:

1. Know your breeds
2. Know the sum of the parts
3. Don't judge a dog on physical appearance
4. Know your limitations
5. Stop the cycle!

Stop the cycle!

For every dog who finds a new and caring home, there are thousands of dogs who remain with owners who don't care for them properly. And millions more who are euthanized for lack of any home at all.

Spay or neuter all your pets.