Adopting a Pet in Frederick County

There are many ways to become a pet owner. You can contact a breeder or shop at a pet store, but quite possibly the best option is to adopt from a local animal shelter. When you do, you rescue an animal from an unknown future. You also free up a spot at the shelter for another animal in need of saving. Best of all, your life changes forever when you bring your new pet home.

Many wonderful dogs, cats, and other animals are waiting patiently to be adopted from our local shelters here in Frederick County. Find out where to find them, the benefits of adopting a pet, and what to do after you adopt.

Where to Adopt a Pet in Frederick County, MD

You have plenty of options for adopting a pet in Frederick County. Here’s where we recommend looking:

• Frederick County Animal Control: Located at 1832 Rosemont Ave, Frederick, MD 21702, in-person animal viewing is available Monday thru Saturday. You can also view adoptable pets on Petfinder and Petango.
• Frederick County Humane Society: Located at 550 Highland St #200, Frederick, MD 21701, this non-profit organization relies on grants, private donations, and fundraisers to cover operating expenses. This could be the perfect place to find your new furry friend!
• Animal Welfare League of Frederick County: Located at 1202 E Patrick St #13A, Frederick, MD 21701, AWLFC has adoptable dogs and cats and a foster parent program for animals in transition. You can view their adoptable animals on Petfinder.

Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Animal

Adding a pet to your home has many advantages, especially if you adopt a rescue animal.

• You’re saving a life: There simply isn’t enough room in animal shelters to house all the pets that are brought in. Adopting your special new friend could literally save that animal’s life.
• You get a reduced price: Adoption fees from animal shelters are typically far lower than purchasing a pet from a breeder.
• Your pet is up-to-date medically: Shelters vaccinate newcomers and spay and neuter kittens and puppies, so they’re ready for adoption.
• You can choose from many animals, breeds, and ages: You can find a variety of pets at a local Frederick County animal shelter. This is good news if you want to bring home an adult dog or cat that is already trained and socialized.

What to Do After You Adopt a Pet

Congratulations, new pet owner! Now that you have a fresh set of paws running around your house, you need to take these steps:

• License your new pet: Regardless of where you adopted your pet from, call Frederick County Animal Control at 301-600-1546 to inquire about licensing the animal. Your pet’s rabies vaccine must be current to be eligible for a license.
• Register your pet’s microchip: If your pet still needs to be microchipped, visit Village Vet of Urbana for this service. If your pet came with a microchip, register the information at foundanimals.org.
• Schedule a general wellness exam: Visit us within two weeks of adopting your pet for a wellness exam. We’ll help your pet start off on the right paw with a physical exam, any necessary vaccines, flea and tick prevention, nutrition counseling, and any general pet health advice you need.
• Sign up for a pet wellness plan: Keep future pet care affordable with a pet wellness plan. We’ll help you choose the right plan for your needs.

For help becoming the responsible pet owner you’ve always wanted to be, please contact Village Vet of Urbana today at 301-228-0681. We’ll assist with all the things you need to do after adopting a pet.