October is Adopt a Shelter Pet Month, an annual event that aims to promote the adoption of pets from animal shelters and rescue organizations. The month-long celebration is dedicated to raising awareness about the millions of pets that are waiting for their forever homes in shelters across the country.

Adopting a pet from a shelter is a great way to save a life and provide a loving home for an animal in need. All shelter pets deserve a second chance at a forever home but there are some pets who have a more difficult time getting adopted than others and this month, we would like to shine a light on them.

Black cats and dogs are adopted less frequently than their lighter colored counterparts. This phenomenon is known as "black dog syndrome" or "black cat syndrome." Unfortunately, black pets, especially cats, often suffer from negative stereotypes of being evil or bad luck. Obviously, this is simply not true. Black dogs are often misunderstood as being aggressive or defensive. There is no proof that coat color in any way affects a dog’s personality. However, other dogs may act uncomfortable or defensive around black dogs due to not being able to distinguish body language because the black dog’s ears and tail and facial expressions will often blend in with the body. 

No breed suffers more from negative stereotypes than the Pitbull. They have a stigma of being dangerous, aggressive and causing more damage due to a “locking jaw.”  While Pitbulls do have a strong jaw, no healthy dog is able to lock their jaw. Despite their loving and loyal personalities, many people are hesitant to adopt pitbulls due to their reputation. Additionally, some landlords and insurance companies have breed-specific restrictions, which can make it difficult for pitbull owners to find housing.

Differently-abled pets, such as pets with visual and hearing loss, missing limbs or mobility loss are also less adopted than others. Regardless of their physical abilities, these pets can still be loving and devoted companions. Thankfully, there are now numerous and diverse assistive devices to allow pets to live longer, healthier lives while still being able to enjoy activities and family time.

Lastly, senior pets are often left in shelters in favor of puppies or kittens. Senior pets can still be wonderful companions and are often more laid-back and less likely to chew your couch or shoes. Pets that are over 7 years old are considered seniors, but many are still full of life, can be trained and provide years of love and companionship. 

All pets deserve to be safe and loved, and given a second chance at a wonderful life. If you are looking for a new furry family member, or know someone who is, consider providing a home for one of the less likely to be adopted pets.

Health Tip for the Season

Halloween can be a fun time for all with a few safety precautions. Remember to keep all chocolate and candy out of reach of pets. Chocolate and sugar-free candy containing Xylitol can be deadly for pets. Place all lit pumpkins and candles in an area where a pet can’t accidentally knock them over and start a fire. During trick-or-treat, pets should be kept in a secure location in the home or in their crate to prevent them from door dashing or escaping.

Training Tip for the Season



Some dogs will act aggressive or defensive towards all black dogs because it’s more difficult for them to see the facial expressions and body language of an all black dog. This is due to a dog’s limited visual color spectrum, causing the facial features and body of a black dog to blend together making communication difficult to read. If your pet has issues with darker colored dogs, work with them on focus and touch commands.

Pet Sitter Tip for the Season

Make your Professional Pet Care Specialist aware if your pet is reactive while on a walk. Foremost, this is for the safety of both the Professional Pet Care Specialist and the pet, but also, your Professional Pet Care Specialist may be able to help. Leash reactivity can include pulling, barking, lunging, and growling. The reason for leash reactivity can be as varied and individualized as the pet’s personality. Some reasons for leash reactivity can be poor socialization, stress, fear, a bad past experience and difficulty reading other dog’s body language. Your Professional Pet Care Specialist will be able to assess the reason your pet is reactive and help them feel more secure on their walk.