Adopting a Shelter Pet: Is It a Good Idea? Everything You Need to Know Before Making the Decision
A Quiet Revolution – Growing Adoption Awareness in Poland
In recent years, adopting four-legged friends from shelters has become an increasingly popular alternative to purchasing purebred animals in Poland. This is not only a social change, but also an ethical one – showing that empathy, responsibility and concern for animal welfare are becoming part of our everyday lives.
Social media, social campaigns, and adoption stories shared by organizations like the Viva! Foundation and TOZ have contributed to this increased awareness. But before you decide to adopt a dog or cat, it's important to understand exactly what's involved.
Why is it worth adopting a pet from a shelter?
1. You save lives
Every day, dozens, even hundreds, of homeless dogs and cats arrive at shelters in Poland, having lost their homes for various reasons. Some were abandoned by their owners , others were born on the streets, and some were rescued from shady breeding farms and extremely poor conditions. Many of these animals bear signs of abuse, neglect, or years of lack of human contact.
By adopting a dog or cat from a shelter, you're giving it something invaluable – a second chance at life in a safe, loving home. By doing so, you're not only saving a life but also freeing up space in the shelter for another needy animal. In overcrowded conditions, such a decision can literally mean the difference between life and death. Adopting a pet is an act of empathy and a real help in the fight against animal homelessness in Poland.
2. You gain a special friend
Animals with traumas that have experienced abuse, neglect, or months of homelessness often surprise with their loyalty, affection, and gratitude. After adoption, when they feel safe and accepted, they can form an incredibly deep bond with their new caregiver. This isn't just an ordinary owner-pet relationship—it's a story of rebuilding trust, step by step, day by day.
Adopting a dog from a shelter is an emotional journey in which both person and animal learn about each other, overcoming fears, building a routine, and creating a true home. This process strengthens empathy and responsibility, and brings immense psychological fulfillment. Caring for a rescued animal not only changes its life—it also transforms the life of the owner, giving it a deeper meaning. It's an ideal path for those seeking a friend, wanting to truly help, and building a strong, trusting bond with their animal.
3. You are fighting against pseudo-breeding
By purchasing a dog or cat from an unverified source , you run the risk of unknowingly supporting breeding farms – places where animals are bred en masse, often in appalling conditions. In such farms, animals are kept in cramped cages, without access to adequate veterinary care, proper nutrition, or any form of socialization.
Lack of sanitary supervision, aggressive breeding, and even animal abuse are commonplace in many illegal breeding operations in Poland and abroad. By purchasing a puppy or kitten "from an ad," especially without a contract, pedigree, or medical documentation, you may be—even unknowingly—supporting this brutal system. Meanwhile, adopting a dog from a shelter or foundation sends a clear message of opposition to violence, greed, and animal rights violations. It's an ethical decision that supports a responsible approach to the lives and well-being of pets. By choosing adoption, you promote empathy and responsibility, and you give a chance to those who truly need it. Instead of fueling suffering, you become part of the change.
4. Lower upfront costs
Adopting a dog or cat from a shelter is not only a heartfelt gesture but also a rational financial decision. Most shelters and animal-friendly foundations offer adoptions for a nominal fee—usually ranging from 0 to 300 PLN. This fee is administrative and is intended to partially cover the costs of maintaining and preparing the animal for adoption. Importantly, the adoption fee usually includes basic, yet very expensive, veterinary services.
These include vaccinations against infectious diseases, deworming, microchip implantation (identification tag), and often spaying or neutering. At a private veterinary clinic, each of these procedures costs between a few dozen and several hundred złoty – totaling up to 1,000 złoty. Therefore, adopting an animal from a legal shelter is not only a way to save a pet's life but also a sensible alternative to buying a pet from a breeder. This not only provides you with a loyal companion but also the assurance that the animal has been properly examined and prepared for life in a new home.
Adopting a dog or cat – what do you need to prepare for?
1. Lifestyle change
Adopting a dog or cat involves a huge change in the daily routine of your home. Bringing in a pet means reorganizing your daily schedule, home space, and budget. Dogs require not only several walks a day but also play, socialization, and human contact. Morning and evening walks are especially important, regardless of the weather. Cats, on the other hand, despite their independence, need stimulation—both physical and mental—through play, scratching posts, and space to explore. Budgeting is also essential: high-quality food, regular vet visits, vaccinations, parasite treatments, and accessories (beds, leashes, litter boxes) are just some of the essentials. It's also a good idea to plan for care during travel.
2. Possible traumas and fears
Animals arriving at shelters often have difficult pasts: they were abandoned, beaten, neglected, or lived in extreme conditions. Such experiences can lead to trauma and behavioral problems. Examples include separation anxiety, hypervigilance, fear-based aggression, and trust issues with strangers. Therefore, when adopting a pet, it's important to be patient, warm, and understanding. In many cases, it's worth consulting a certified behaviorist or trainer who can help you develop a treatment plan for your pet. More information can be found on the Polish Ethological Society website.
3. The need for adaptation
A new environment is incredibly stressful for an animal. Even if they were open and cheerful in the shelter, they may become withdrawn, nervous, or hyperactive in their new home. The adaptation process takes time—sometimes a few days, sometimes several months. During this time, patience, routine, and a lack of excessive stimulation are crucial. Some animals may destroy objects, use the house, or bark excessively—these are natural reactions to the unknown.
A gentle introduction of norms, a constant daily rhythm and closeness in the relationship work well. Guides and forums are also helpful, e.g. on the Petto.com.pl blog.
Where to look for a pet for adoption?
1. City and municipal shelters
Almost every major city has an animal shelter. These are public institutions that take in homeless dogs and cats. Current adoption ads can often be found on their websites. Examples:
2. Foundations and temporary homes
Animal welfare organizations often offer adoptions for animals in foster homes. This allows you to meet your pet in a home environment and learn more about their behaviors. This is an ideal solution for those looking to match their lifestyle with a pet. Examples:
3. Adoption portals
The internet is a treasure trove of adoption ads. It's important to use reliable sources that verify ads and support responsible adoption:
Can't adopt? Help in other ways!
1. Virtual adoption
Virtual adoption is a great way to support homeless animals if you can't take a pet in. It involves donating money monthly to a specific dog or cat staying at a shelter or foundation. Your donation can cover the costs of food, treatment, vaccinations, or sterilization. Many organizations offer their virtual caregivers photos, videos, and progress reports, allowing you to track their pet's progress. It's a beautiful form of long-distance relationship that provides real support. Check out: Virtual Adoption at the Viva! Foundation and Adopt a Dog Virtually – 👉 Częstochowa Shelter
2. Volunteering
Volunteering at a shelter or foundation is an invaluable contribution to improving the quality of life for animals. You can help in various ways: walking dogs, socializing cats, cleaning kennels, supporting promotional activities on social media, or running educational campaigns. No experience is necessary – empathy, commitment, and a few hours of free time a week are enough. Volunteering builds awareness and brings immense satisfaction from helping . Learn more on the TOZ Volunteering page. 👉 Częstochowa Shelter
3. Collection of donations
Organizing fundraisers is a simple way to engage the local community. Shelters are constantly in need of food, litter, blankets, towels, cleaning supplies, carriers, and other supplies. You can organize a fundraiser at work, school, preschool, or with neighbors. These types of events also have educational value – they teach children and adults empathy and shared responsibility for the welfare of animals. Find out what's needed by contacting your chosen shelter directly . Example: 👉 Częstochowa Shelter Needs Shelter on Paluchu
4. Education and sharing of announcements
Promoting adoption and responsible pet care can have a real impact on their lives. Every share of an adoption post, every conversation with friends, or social media activity increases the chances of finding a home for your pet. You can also run a blog, a YouTube channel, record podcasts, or organize educational events. Collaborating with local media, schools, and businesses is another way to spread awareness and promote adoption. See more at Petto.com.pl/blog and the Viva! Campaigns.
Where to look for support after adoption?
1. Facebook groups
Online communities are a great place to ask questions, seek support, and share experiences:
Facebook groups and online forums are excellent places to share experiences with others who have adopted animals from shelters. You'll find emotional support, practical advice on raising, feeding, and caring for them, as well as addressing behavioral issues. Recommended online adoption groups and forums:
- Adopciaki – support after adoption
- A dog with a history of trauma – help and advice
- Dogomania – a forum about dogs and adoption
When searching for such groups, use the phrases: "dog adoption forum", "cat adoption group", "dog adoption support forum" – this will help you find the best-moderated communities.
2. Behaviorists and trainers
Many adopted pets may exhibit behaviors stemming from past trauma, separation anxiety, lack of socialization, or defensive aggression. The help of an experienced behaviorist or dog/cat trainer will allow you to better understand your pet's emotions and needs . Find a trusted specialist at:
Polish Ethological Society – list of behaviorists Remember to look for specialists with COAPE certification or membership in organizations such as PTPZ .
3. Thematic forums and blogs
Trusted sources such as the Petto.com.pl blog, YouTube, podcasts, and industry publications can be an invaluable source of knowledge about caring for a dog or cat.
Regularly expanding your knowledge is one of the best ways to build a lasting relationship with your adopted pet. It's worth utilizing materials prepared by practitioners—behaviorists, veterinarians, and experienced caregivers . Recommended resources:
- Petto Blog – Animal Adoption and Care
- YouTube Channel "What a Dog Says" - Behavioral Tips
- Dog Behaviorist Blog – Adoption and Education Guide
Search for phrases like: "how to help an adopted dog", "first days with a shelter dog", "adoption advice for the caregiver".
4. Foundations and shelters – help for caregivers after adoption
Many foundations and shelters offer support even after adoption. You can count on free phone consultations, meetings with behaviorists, assistance in the first few days of adoption, and the opportunity to connect with a volunteer who knows the animal. It's worth checking out their offer:
- The Dog Angel Shelter Foundation – consulting, training, and post-adoption care
- Viva! Foundation – Adoption and Advice – Education and Support for Caregivers
Additionally, many local shelters (e.g., Schronisko na Paluchu in Warsaw) offer caregivers dedicated PDF materials and contact with consultants after the adoption.
Adoption Stories That Touch the Heart
"I found a friend when I least expected it" - the story of Ewa and her dog Wafelek
"After my divorce, I felt lonely and lost. At the shelter, I spotted a small, trembling mutt. Today, Wafelek is always with me. I gave him a home, and he gave me peace of mind."
"Cats are not my thing... until I met Czika" - Przemek's story
"I've always been a dog person. But when my sister moved away and asked me to care for her adopted cat, my life changed. Now I'm planning to adopt a second cat—this time from a shelter."
Summary: Adoption is not an impulse – it is a choice of heart and mind
Adopting a dog or cat is one of the most noble decisions you can make. But it's also a difficult, demanding, and responsible decision. If you can, adopt. If not, help in other ways. Every form of support matters.
🐾 What can you do today?
✅ Visit your local shelter
✅Check adoption portals
✅ Sign up as a volunteer
✅ Organize a collection at work or school
✅ Share this article and let others know how you can help!
📚 Read also:
- 💞 How Dogs Show Affection: 10 Behaviors That Show Love
- 🚗 Safely transporting your dog in the car – a guide
- 🛏️ How to choose the right size dog bed? A practical guide with examples.
- 🪜 Dog stairs – comfort, safety and health of your pet
See more at: Petto.com.pl
https://petto.com.pl/
