Forever Paws

Forever paws was created as my senior project to spread awareness about pet adoption and educate future pet owners about the responsibilities that come with giving an animal a forever home.

Through research and real adoption stories, this website encourages responsible adoption and supports giving shelter animals a second chance.

Why Adopt?

Adopting a pet gives an animal a second chance at life and helps them find a safe, loving forever home.

1

By adopting, you support animal shelters and rescue organizations that work hard everyday to protect animals in need.

2

Every adoption helps fight animal homelessness and gives pets the opportunity to live happier, healthier lives.

3

Adopting a pet not only changes the animal’s life, but can also bring joy, comfort, and companionship into your life.

4

Before Adoption

Do I have enough time?

Can I afford food, vet care, and supplies?

Am I ready for long-term commitment?

The Adoption Process!

  • Visit Shelters / Search Online

    Look at available pets, and find the right match for you!

  • Meet Potential Pets

    Spend time interacting with them. If you show that you love them, they will love you more!

  • Ask Questions!

    Questions like:

    • Health History

    • Behavior

    • Vaccinations

    • Special Needs

    These questions will help you during the adoption process.

  • Complete The Application!

    Things like home checks, interviews, and forms will help you get your animal even quicker!

  • Bring Your Pet Home!

After Adoption…

Your pet may feel nervous, shy, excited, or overwhelmed.

  • BUILDING TRUST

    • Be Patient

    • Keep Routines

    • Give Space

    • Use Positive Reinforcement

  • First Vet Visit

    Make them as comfortable as you can!

  • Common Challenges

    • Anxiety

    • House Training

    • Seperation Issues

Real Adoption Stories

  • Cooper Rondeau

    Cooper was born into a home with a lot of dogs where he was often bullied by his siblings. They would chew on his legs, leaving injuries, and he became depressed in that environment. After being adopted by the Rondeau family, he finally got the loving home he deserved and now lives happily with his new brother, Ringo. Even though he still has some habits from his past, his story shows he needed to heal and be happy.

  • Lilly & Beau

    Two adopted dogs who became best friends.

    Lily was adopted to give another rescue dog a loving home. After going through the shelter process, Lily joined the family from Pennsylvania and Beau from Puerto Rico after. When Beau joined the family he was very anxious and afraid and Lily helped him through it. Their story shows how adoption can bring comfort and friendship to not only people, but to other pets too.

  • Pearl

    Pearl was transported from Mississippi when she was about a year and half old. the trip was stressful for her and she was terrified when she first arrived. She stayed hidden under the bed for months and needed a lot of time to adjust. She started warming up slowly and now gets along with the dogs and is more playful everyday. Her story shows that some adopted animals need extra time, patience and help to adjust to their new lives.

  • Murphy

    Murphy was rescued from a kill shelter in Mississippi in 2009 after his family saw his picture and knew they wanted him. When he arrived, he had never been indoors before, but he was immediately loving and grateful. He quickly became a huge part of the family, even helping his brother learn how to walk. Murphy was gentle, loyal, and always protective of the people he loved, even scaring away bears to keep his family safe. His story shows how adoption not only gave him a second chance at life, but also brought so much love and unforgettable memories to the family who gave him a home.

  • Dechen

    Dechen spent most of her early life locked in a cage or confined to a room with another Persian cat she had grown up with. The two cats were rarely allowed to play, were given poor care and never vaccinated. Even though she was kept indoors, she had several fleas and was extremely scared of human interaction. After her companion died, she was given up for adoption. Due to her past neglect, she developed learned helplessness and still stays mostly on the first floor. Her story shows how neglect can deeply affect animals but also that healing is possible with love and care.

Tips For First-Time Pet Owners

Tips For First-Time Pet Owners

  • Create Routines

  • Be Patient

  • Start Training Early

  • Schedule Vet Care

  • Give Love and Consistency

Helpful Resources