WHAT MAKES A GOOD SHELTER

If you have no experience of animal shelters, you may be wondering how to spot a good one. Here are a few pointers to help you recognise a well-run shelter

Transparency: The shelter should hold special events (e.g. open days) that give people who are interested an opportunity to see first-hand what goes on there
Qualifications: The staff should have the necessary expertise and – where relevant – certificates
Size of rooms: all rooms should have enough height, width and depth for the animals they are intended for.
Euthanasia: A good shelter will primarily follow a “no kill” policy and will only resort to euthanasia in the most extreme circumstances.
Providing information: The staff will always be ready to provide detailed information about the care needs of a particular species
Education: Dogs will be taught basic commands by trained staff; animals with behavioural problems will be resocialised by experts
Follow-up checks: The shelter’s adoption contract will require follow-up visits to ensure that an adopted pet is being well looked after
Allocating animals: the staff will carefully enquire into the circumstances and knowledge of a person who wants to adopt, and then advise which animal (if any) would be most suitable
Veterinary care: The shelter should work closely with a vet and/or veterinary clinic
Single rooms: only for animals that are absolutely incompatible with others.
Exercise area: for dogs, so that they can fulfil their need to run around.
Infirmary: for the care of sick animals.
Quarantine station: so animals that were found in uncertain circumstances or that have infectious diseases can be kept separate, for the protection of the healthy animals.