What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in October 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

Celebrating Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

The main Adopt a Pet website has a spooky new look! The cobwebs are only sticking around for the month of October, so be sure to check them out. There’s also a new personality-pet-matching quiz you can try, our treat!
Try It Here
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New! Pet Timestamps

As a result of feedback, research, and user testing, we’ve expanded this valuable update to shelter and rescue pet pages! Now, every pet on Adopt a Pet displays posted and updated timestamps, giving potential adopters information which increases adoption interest for both new and longtime pets. Learn more about the timestamp enhancement and research in our help center here:
Pet Timestamps
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Rehome now available in Canada

Rehome is an online service that guides cat and dog owners through listing their pet on the Adopt a Pet website and screening adopters. Canadians can now use Rehome! Read the shelter/rescue FAQ for how to refer and get donations for your organization, or get a code to waive the listing fee for owners in need.
Rehome Referring FAQ
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New crowdfunding tool

Getting ready for Giving Tuesday? Adopt a Pet partnered with PetFundr so that you can use their online platform to run your own fundraising campaigns, free of charge. Read on for more info, and to see other organizations who have already used this tool to raise critical funds.
Get Started with PetFundr

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Check Out Nationwide’s Shelter Resource Center

Take the fear out of unexpected vet costs for your adopters and connect them with these pet insurance resources. Nationwide created a resource center for you to access easy-to-share digital tools to keep your adopters informed.
Learn More
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Discussion: REDI for Change

Watch a recording of Maddie’s Fund Community Conversations, where, “animal well-being leaders across the country…. discussed their experiences with CARE’s Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion course (REDI) and the positive impact their learnings have had on themselves, their organizations and their goals.”
Watch It Here
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Protect The Dogs In Your Care From These Creepy Critters

Scary parasites can lurk year-round. Take a quiz to test your parasite knowledge and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a dog portrait from our friends at Zoetis.
Quiz Your Critter Knowledge

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
Scammers try to get your password: Read security tips
Follow us for more pro news at www.Facebook.com/AdoptaPetPro

Free downloads to share with your community: 

 

How to Pick a Pet Name

Woman walking with long-haired chihuahua
BullRun / Adobe Stock
As pet parents, you can have just as much fun coming up with names as human parents do. Plus, the process allows for more creativity; you don’t have to worry about mean playground rhymes or making relatives happy. If you’re leaning toward getting creative with your pet’s name, wait and get to know their furry little personality first. The Rottie mix that you were going to call Bonesaw might turn out to be more of a Muffin. Just remember that the name you choose has to be something that your partner and kids are comfortable calling out in the local park — “Cleopatra” or “Cupcake” might be too much for your teenage son. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the perfect name for your pet.

Tips for picking your new pet’s name

Avoid confusion

If you are going to practice verbal recall training with your pet, choose a short name that is easy to call out at a distance. Something like “Mac n’ Cheese” might be hard to call out quickly, so if you opt for a longer name, consider a shorter nickname. Don’t choose a name that sounds like a command, such as Beau or Noah (“No”). Names that sound similar to important cues could lead to mixed signals for your pet.

Be happy

You don’t have to change your dog’s name if you like the one they were given by the shelter or foster home, but it’s important that you are happy with your pet’s name. The name you choose should put a smile on your face. Avoid names that are upsetting or offensive to yourself or others. Bonus: when you’re happy, your pet is more likely to respond to you.

Think ahead

Select a name that will grow with your pet. “Fluffy” might seem right when your little ball of fluff is a puppy, but if they hit 80 pounds it might not seem like such a good fit anymore.

Seek inspiration

If you feel you need a little inspiration in choosing a name, browse through hundreds of possible pet names.

Teaching your pet their name

If you do plan to change your pet’s name, then positive reinforcement is a great way to train them to respond to their new name.

  1. Start associating the name with positive experiences. Say the name in a cheerful tone, and then immediately follow it with a treat, praise, or a favorite toy. This helps your pet connect their name with something enjoyable.
  2. Consistency is key. Use your pet’s name regularly throughout the day, especially during interactions or playtime.
  3. Always associate the name with positivity. Never use your pet’s name when you’re upset or scolding them.
  4. Every pet learns at their own pace, so go at your pet’s pace.

This article is an excerpt from Adopt-a-Pet.com’s book. For more great tips on all things dog, order the book now on Amazon.  If you click on one of these affiliate links, we may receive a tiny commission.

All The Treats For These 2023 Wackiest Dog Names Winners

Spooky season is upon us, and that means tricks, treats, and – dogs?! That’s right, October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, making Halloween-time the best time to adopt a dog. Because, you know, what’s scarier than ghouls and goblins? It’s how many dogs need homes. That’s why this October, Adopt a Pet is helping all those homeless pups by covering adoption fees at select shelters, showcasing adoptable dog spotlights, providing adoption tools (so that the process itself doesn’t become a nightmare), and sharing a bit of Halloween fun along the way.

Like wacky dog names! In the spirit of Halloween and to inspire your own adopting, our friends at Nationwide shared a lineup of creative dog names from their members. As America’s #1 pet insurance, Nationwide is here to make your move from adopter to pet parent less scary. They’ve got you covered with the PetRxExpress℠ automatic claims submissions and preferred pricing for medications to avoid sticker cost fright, plus tools like their 24/7 vethelpline for when things go bump in the night. Consider Nationwide for peace of mind, so that you can focus more on the fun stuff, such as Halloween treats and wacky names.

Read on to meet this year’s wackiest pet name contenders, see the winner, and learn the stories that inspired each pup’s naming along the way.

And The Nominees Are …

australian shepherd dog on mat

Whiskey Tango Furball

“I own a distillery, and Whiskey comes to work with me sometimes to — well, make whiskey,” says pet mom Christine R. The natural connection to spirits was enhanced by the spirited way that her pooch approaches life. “Australian shepherds are known for being rambunctious and mischievous,” she adds. Add a couple of choice letters from the international phonetic alphabet and a subtle twist, and Whiskey Tango Furball was named.

— Christine R.

The Dude LeBowWowSki

Doggie dad Josh J. says, “The Dude is really chill — like medically, too chill. He has Addison’s disease, and his body can’t produce the stress hormone cortisol.” His laid-back demeanor makes him an outstanding snuggler, especially on cold nights.

— Josh J.

Sir Arthur Cowvin Moo Moo The Great

“Sir Arthur’s fur-brother’s name starts with ‘Your Lordship,’ so of course Arthur was destined to be of noble descent,” says Kerry B., pet parent to the canine-knight in question. She continues, “Sir Arthur also looks like a little cow with his black spots — that’s where Cowvin Moo Moo comes in.”

Unlike his knightly brethren, Sir Arthur’s obsession is less with the Cup of Life than with what goes in it: Ice. Kerry continues, “He’s obsessed with ice. You can’t even get a drink without him coming running.”

— Kerry B.

Scooby Moo

Doggie dad Bill D. says, “The whole family loves Scooby Doo — especially our daughter — and our Scooby Moo is mostly Great Dane, too. He’s also black and white like a cow. Combining the two, we came up with ‘Scooby Moo.’”

— Bill D.

Maple Bacon on a Biscuit

Early into training, pup mom Riley J. noticed a trend with her new pooch: “We discovered [she] loved bacon-flavored training treats, leaving her breath to always smell like bacon.” Over several weeks, the pup’s nicknames were honed to connect with her unique personality — and taste for treats — from bacon bits to maple bacon to Maple Bacon on a Biscuit.

That wasn’t the only thing that was unique about Maple. She has anophthalmia, a condition that caused her to be born without eyes. Despite this challenge, she faces the world fearlessly, even helping others by acting as a therapy dog for nursing homes. Riley says, “Watching her navigate the world and face challenges … without fear has always been my favorite thing about her.”

— Riley J.

Everybody Loves Raymond Orr Else

Doggie dad Brad E. says, “It’s a combination of one of the shows we like and the names of two of the Boston Bruins’ best defensemen, Raymond Bourque, and another Beantown hockey great, Bobby Orr. Also, he unofficially has the initials JBD at the end for Ray Donovan, a fictional character from South Boston. My niece wanted to be able to call him Donnie.”

— Brad E.

Captain Good Boy

“When I decided to adopt a dog, I knew I would be constantly telling him what a good boy he is — so I decided to incorporate that into his name,” recalls dog mom Lilly A. “He is black and white, which reminded me of a captain’s hat, so I determined that he was the captain of all the good boys. That’s how I landed on Captain Good Boy for my best friend’s name.”

— Lilly A.

Boolaloobalala

A pet name like “Boolaloobala” connects with the listener, in part because it has such a unique, sonorous flow. No surprise it has a musical origin: “[It’s] a Cuban song about a wild girl,” says dog parent Rise B. “She was a crazy and wild puppy.”

— Rise B.

Barkimedes

“Not sure if it was inspired by our love of math or hot baths, but we had the name ‘Barkimedes’ on our short list of dog names for several years,” says Sarah G., doggie mom of nominee Barkimedes.

— Sarah G.

And the winner is …

Doc Pawlliday

“My favorite western movie has always been Tombstone, and Doc Holliday is my favorite character,” says dog mom Amber H. “I realized in his puppy photo that he looked like a ‘Doc,’ and ‘Pawlliday’ came soon after.”

— Amber H.

Want to take the fright out of dog parenting? Get a pet insurance quote with Nationwide, so you can enjoy all the treats without the tricks.

What's New at Adopt-a-Pet in September 2023

Questions? First, try our Help Library. Then, if you still need help, email helpdesk@adoptapet.com. We’ll reply within 1 business day. Thank you!

New! Pet Timestamps

As a result of feedback, research, and user testing, we’ve expanded this valuable update to shelter and rescue pet pages! Now, every pet on Adopt a Pet displays posted and updated timestamps, giving potential adopters information which increases adoption interest for both new and longtime pets. Learn more about the timestamp enhancement and research in our help center:
Pet Timestamps

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Use ChatGPT to write amazing pet bios

We tested ChatGPT to see how it did writing compelling pet adoption bios and were amazed with the results! We also had ChatGPT, a free AI tool anyone can use, write this article explaining how it works – it took it all of a few seconds! Could ChatGPT revolutionize the way you write your pet descriptions, saving you time, and helping pets find loving homes faster?

Try ChatGPT Here

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Unlocking data insights

Introducing Shelter Animals Count’s Loaned Analyst Program! Interested in learning more about what your organization’s data can tell you but lack the time or skills to put together the insights you need? Shelter Animals Count (SAC) is piloting a Loaned Analyst Program, which will connect a SAC data analyst with interested organizations to provide personalized data insights and training. Uncover unique insights and build impactful reports for staff, donors, stakeholders, and the public. Share your data analytics needs and apply for the program via the provided form.

Apply Here

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A message from our friends at Nationwide

Pet Insurance 102: Answering Your Top Questions About Pet Insurance

Responsible dog parenting starts with great protection for your adopters’ new pups. As a follow-up to last month’s 101 intro, Nationwide is answering pet parents’ the top questions about pet insurance and how it works.

Check Out Pet Insurance 102

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Webinar: How to Respond When You Are Called Out For a Microaggression

Our friends at AAWA are offering another educational webinar live on September 13, or register to watch the recording. “In this session, we define microaggressions, share examples of how they show up in the workplace, and discuss a framework for leaders to use when they deliver a microaggression to their colleague.”

Register Here

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A message from our friends at Zoetis

Fall Activities for Your Adopters and Their Dogs

Just because the weather is cooling doesn’t mean dog parents need to stay inside with their dogs. Here are some activities they can do together in the fall to build the bond they share.

Learn More

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And, of course… We thank the wonderful, pet-loving sponsors for supporting all of us in our mission and making Adopt a Pet a free service!

See past issues of What’s New in the archives.
Scammers try to get your password: Read security tips
Follow us for more pro news at www.Facebook.com/AdoptaPetPro

Free downloads to share with your community: 

 

Trick or Treat Goodie Bag Giveaway Rules

ADOPT A PET TRICK OR TREAT GIVEAWAY 

Terms and Conditions

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THE PRIZE IN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VALID ONLY IN THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. ALL DISPUTES WILL BE RESOLVED SOLELY VIA BINDING ARBITRATION AND ENTRANTS WAIVE THE ABILITY TO BRING CLAIMS IN A CLASS ACTION FORMAT.

 

By participating in the Adopt A Pet Giveaway (the “Sweepstakes”), you unconditionally accept and agree to comply with and abide by these Official Rules (“Official Rules”) and the decisions of Kinship Partners, Inc.  (the “Sponsor”) which shall be final and binding in all respects. All applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations apply. 

  1. SPONSOR: The Sweepstakes is sponsored by Kinship Partners, Inc. (“Sponsor”). 
  2. ELIGIBILITY: To enter the Sweepstakes, you must, as of the start of the Sweepstakes Period (defined below), (i) be a legal resident of the 50 United States or the District of Columbia, (ii) above the age of majority in your place of residence; and (iii) sign up for a valid Adopt A Pet account. Employees, officers and directors of Sponsor, its advertising and promotion agencies, and its respective parent companies, affiliates, franchisees, subsidiaries and agencies, and their immediate families (parents, siblings, children and spouses of each, regardless of where they live) and members of the households (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors, are ineligible to participate in this Sweepstakes. The Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and is void where prohibited by law. 
  3. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: Entries must be submitted between 12:00:01 am Pacific Time (“PT”) on October 1, 2023 and 11:59:59 pm PT on November 5, 2023 (“Sweepstakes Period”). Sponsor’s computer, or that of its designee, shall serve as the official timekeeper for the Sweepstakes. 
  4. HOW TO ENTER: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. During the Sweepstakes Period, share your confirmed adopter story with Adopt A Pet following the provided instructions and automatically receive one (1) entry into the Sweepstakes (the “Entry”). Multiple participants are not permitted to share the same email address. Incomplete entries will not be accepted and are void. 

By submitting an Entry, Entrant understands and grants to the Sponsor an irrevocable, perpetual, non-exclusive worldwide license to use his/her/their Entry in advertising and/or promotional activities worldwide without compensation, permission or notification. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole and absolute discretion to alter, change or modify any Entry.

  1. SELECTION AND NOTIFICATION OF THE PRIZE WINNER: On or about November 12, 2023, Sponsor or its designee will conduct a random drawing from among all eligible entries received during the Sweepstakes Period. Four (4) winners will be selected from the eligible entries. Following the drawing, the winner will be notified via email and will be required to respond with his/her/their full name, shipping address, email address, and phone number within three (3) days via return email. Noncompliance will result in disqualification, and an alternate winner may be selected. Any potential prize winner who does not reply to a prize notification with the required information and within the specified time period will be disqualified and an alternate winner may be notified. If a prize notification is returned as undeliverable, or if the selected prize winner fails to claim the prize or if selected winner cannot accept or receive the prize for any reason, or he/she/they is not in compliance with these Official Rules, the prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner may be selected. If Sponsor is unable to determine and verify a potential winner after repeated alternate drawings or if Sponsor fails to receive a sufficient number of entries to correspond to the number of prizes available to be awarded, Sponsor reserves the right to not award such prize(s). 

Sponsor’s decisions are final and binding in all matters related to the Sweepstakes. 

 

  1. PRIZE AND APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUES (“ARV”): 

 

  • One grand prize winner will receive: 
  • $500 Gift Card to PetSmart
  • 6-month subscription of The Kin ($30)
  • Casper dog bed ($139-$249)
  • Greenies TBC ($9.98 – $39.98)
  • Wisdom Panel DNA kit SKU: 51002 ($127.99)

 

  • Whistle Go Explore ($129)

 

  • Three (3) winners will receive:
  • $25 Gift Card to PetSmart
  • 2-month subscription of The Kin ($9)
  • Casper dog bed ($139-$249)
  • Greenies TBC

 

 

Odds of winning prize depend on the number of eligible entries received during the Sweepstakes Period. No transfer, substitution or cash equivalent for prize is allowed, except at Sponsor’s sole discretion. Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize, in whole or in part, of equal or greater monetary value if the prize or any portion of the prize cannot be awarded, in whole or in part, as described for any reason. Actual retail value of the prizes or prize components may differ from stated ARV and Sponsor will not award any difference between actual value and ARV. Limit of one (1) prize per person. Actual prizes may differ from any promotional images. Prize winner is responsible for all federal, state, or local taxes associated with prize acceptance. 

Prizes are not redeemable for cash, assignable, transferable and may not be substituted except at Sponsor’s sole discretion. Sponsor reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value at its discretion. Any other incidental expenses on prize not specified herein are the winner’s sole responsibility.

Prizes are awarded “as is” with no warranty or guarantee, either express or implied by Sponsor. Winners acknowledge that the Sponsor and all other businesses affiliated with this Sweepstakes and their agents do not make, nor are in any manner responsible for any warranty, representations, expressed or implied, in fact or in law, relative to the quality, conditions, fitness or merchantability of any aspect of the prize being offered, except that each merchandise prize shall be subject to its manufacturer’s standard warranty (if any). 

Except where prohibited by law, entry and acceptance of prize constitute permission to use winner’s name, prize won, hometown, likeness, video tape, photographs, and statements for purposes of advertising, promotion and publicity (including online posting) in any and all media now or hereafter known throughout the world in perpetuity, without additional compensation, notification or permission.

  1. GENERAL: Participating entrants agree to these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor and release the Sponsor  and all affiliated companies, as well as the employees, officers, directors and agents of each (the “Released Parties”), from all claims and liability relating to their participation in the Sweepstakes, and the acceptance of and use/misuse of the prizes offered. Participating entrants assume all liability for and Released Parties shall be held harmless against any liability for any injury, losses or damages of any kind to persons, including personal injury or death, or injury to property caused or claimed to be caused in whole or in part,  directly or indirectly, by participation in this Sweepstakes, acceptance, possession, or use/misuse of the prize, or any claims based on publicity rights, defamation or invasion of privacy, or merchandise delivery. Sponsor is not responsible for any typographical or other error in the printing of the offer, administration of the Sweepstakes or in the announcement of the prize. 

In the event of a dispute over the identity of an entrant, entry will be deemed submitted by the “Authorized Account Holder” of the email account from which the entry is submitted. Authorized Account Holder means the natural person to whom the email account is registered. Sponsor may ask any entrant or potential winner to provide Sponsor with proof, to Sponsor’s satisfaction, that such party is the authorized account holder of the email account associated with the entry. Entry materials/data that have been tampered with or altered, or mass entries or entries generated by a script, macro or use of automated devices are void. The Released Parties are not responsible for: (i) lost, late, misdirected, damaged or illegible entries; or (ii) error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operations or transmission, theft or destruction or unauthorized access to or alterations of entry materials, or for technical, network, telephone equipment, electronic, computer, hardware or software malfunctions of any kind, or inaccurate transmission of or failure to receive entry information by Sponsor on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any web site or any combination thereof; or (iii) any injury or damage to entrant’s or any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating in the Sweepstakes. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you (i) agree to be bound by these Official Rules, including all eligibility requirements, and (ii) agree to be bound by the decisions of Sponsor, which are final and binding in all matters relating to the Sweepstakes. Failure to comply with these Official Rules may result in disqualification from the Sweepstakes. 

Sponsor reserves the right to cancel, suspend and/or modify the Sweepstakes, or any part of it, if any fraud, technical failures or any factor beyond Sponsor’s reasonable control impairs the integrity or proper functioning of the Sweepstakes, as determined by Sponsor. If, for any reason, the Sweepstakes cannot be run as planned, Sponsor may disqualify any suspect entries or individuals from the Sweepstakes and any sweepstakes it sponsors and (a) suspend the Sweepstakes and modify the Sweepstakes to address the impairment, then resume the Sweepstakes in a manner that best conforms to the spirit of these Official Rules; and/or (b) award the prizes at random from among the eligible, non-suspect entries received up to the time of the impairment. 

  1. PRIVACY: As a condition of entering the Sweepstakes, each entrant gives consent for Sponsor to obtain and deliver his, her or their name, address and other information to third parties, for the purpose of administering this Sweepstakes and to comply with applicable laws, regulations and rules, including, without limitation, the storing of your personal information for purposes of complying with state record retention requirements. Any information entrant provides to Sponsor may be used to communicate with entrant in relation to this Sweepstakes or on a Sweepstakes winner’s list. Personal information collected from entrants are subject to the Sponsor’s Privacy Policy, which can be found at https://www.mars.com/privacy.
  2. SWEEPSTAKES CONDITIONS: By entering, each entrant agrees: (a) to be bound by these Official Rules and any other documents required by Sponsor herein and by the decisions of the Sponsor, and to waive any right to claim ambiguity in this Sweepstakes, the Official Rules or any other documents required by Sponsor herein, (b) to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Sponsor and all affiliated companies,  and all other businesses involved in this Sweepstakes, as well as the employees, officers, directors and agents of each (the “Released Parties”), Sponsor  and each of their respective officers, directors, employees, shareholders, representatives and agents (collectively, “Released Parties”) from and against any and all liability, claims, losses, damages, demands, causes of action, penalties and expenses arising out of or related to any statement, action or failure to act by entrant during or in connection with his/her participation herein and/or any breach or alleged breach of these Official Rules or of any other documents required by Sponsor and, (c) not to sue and to hereby irrevocably and unconditionally release, discharge and hold harmless the Released Parties from any and all liabilities, claims and demands of any kind or nature whatsoever, in law or equity, whether known or unknown, which entrant (or entrant’s successors-in-interest, heirs and/or agents) ever had, now have, or in the future may have against the Released Parties, including, but not limited to claims arising out of or related to personal injury (including death) and/or damage, theft, loss or any other harm resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from (i) participation in the Sweepstakes or any Sweepstakes related activity, (ii) the acceptance, possession, misuse or use of the prize, (iii) the use of any of the rights granted herein (including, without limitation, the use and exploitation of the entrant’s entry, name, address (city and state), biographical information, statements, voice, photograph, and/or other likeness), (iv) any malfunction or other problem with any Sweepstakes website or webpage, (v) any error in the collection or retention of entry information, and (vi) any typographical or other error in the printing, offering or announcement of any prize. 
  3. GOVERNING LAW AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY:

All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules or the rights and obligations of entrants, Sponsor or the Released Parties in connection with the Sweepstakes will be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of New York, without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of any other laws.

BY ENTERING THE SWEEPSTAKES, ENTRANT AGREES THAT TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW: (A) ANY AND ALL DISPUTES, CLAIMS AND CAUSES OF ACTION ARISING OUT OF OR CONNECTED WITH THE SWEEPSTAKES, OR ANY PRIZE AWARDED, WILL BE RESOLVED INDIVIDUALLY, WITHOUT RESORT TO ANY FORM OF CLASS ACTION; (B) ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, JUDGMENTS AND AWARDS WILL BE LIMITED TO ACTUAL THIRD-PARTY, OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS INCURRED (IF ANY) NOT TO EXCEED TEN DOLLARS ($10.00), BUT IN NO EVENT WILL ATTORNEYS’ FEES BE AWARDED OR RECOVERABLE; (C) UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY ENTRANT BE PERMITTED TO OBTAIN ANY AWARD FOR, AND ENTRANT HEREBY KNOWINGLY AND EXPRESSLY WAIVES ALL RIGHTS TO SEEK, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS AND/OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES, OTHER THAN ACTUAL OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES NOT TO EXCEED TEN DOLLARS ($10.00), AND/OR ANY RIGHTS TO HAVE DAMAGES MULTIPLIED OR OTHERWISE INCREASED; AND (D) ENTRANTS’ REMEDIES ARE LIMITED TO A CLAIM FOR MONEY DAMAGES (IF ANY) AND ENTRANT IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO SEEK INJUNCTIVE OR EQUITABLE RELIEF. SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY, SO THE ABOVE MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. 

  1. TERMINATION/SUSPENSION/MODIFICATION OF SWEEPSTAKES: If for any reason this Sweepstakes is not capable of running as planned, including, but not limited to, infection by computer virus, bugs, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud or any other causes beyond the reasonable control of Sponsor which corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity, fulfillment or proper conduct of the Sweepstakes, Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to terminate, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes and to select the winner by conducting a random drawing from those eligible entries received up to the time of the termination/suspension. Sponsor may also disqualify or prohibit an entrant from participating in the Sweepstakes or winning a prize in this or any other promotion conducted by Sponsor if, at its sole discretion, it determines that said entrant has violated the Official Rules or has threatened or is attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Sweepstakes by cheating, hacking, deception or other unfair playing practices (including the use of automated quick-entry programs), or intending to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other entrants or Sponsor’s representatives. ANY ATTEMPT BY AN ENTRANT TO DELIBERATELY UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES MAY BE IN VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS. SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK REMEDIES AND DAMAGES (INCLUDING ATTORNEY’S FEES) FROM ANY SUCH ENTRANT TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW, INCLUDING CRIMINAL PROSECUTION. 
  2. DISPUTES: The parties hereto each agree to finally settle all disputes only through arbitration; provided, however, the Released Parties shall be entitled to seek injunctive or equitable relief in the state and federal courts in New York and any other court with jurisdiction over the parties. In arbitration, there is no judge or jury and review is limited. The arbitrator’s decision and award is final and binding, with limited exceptions, and judgment on the award may be entered in any court with jurisdiction. The parties agree that, except as set forth above, any claim, suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Sweepstakes shall be resolved solely by binding arbitration before a sole arbitrator under the streamlined Arbitration Rules Procedures of JAMS Inc. (“JAMS”) or any successor to JAMS. In the event JAMS is unwilling or unable to set a hearing date within fourteen (14) days of the filing of a “Demand for Arbitration”, then either party can elect to have the arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”) or any other mutually agreeable arbitration administration service. If an in-person hearing is required, then it will take place in New York, New York. The federal or state law that applies to these Official Rules will also apply during the arbitration. Disputes will be arbitrated only on an individual basis and will not be consolidated with any other proceedings that involve any claims or controversy of another party, including any class actions; provided, however, if for any reason any court or arbitrator holds that this restriction is unconscionable or unenforceable, then the agreement to arbitrate doesn’t apply and the dispute must be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction in Williamson County, Tennessee. Sponsor agrees to pay the administrative and arbitrator’s fees in order to conduct the arbitration (but specifically excluding any travel or other costs of entrant to attend the arbitration hearing). Either party may, notwithstanding this provision, bring qualifying claims in small claims court. 
  3. WINNER CONFIRMATION REQUEST: For a written confirmation of the prize winner, please send a stamped, self-addressed envelope to Sponsor at Adopt A Pet Giveaway Winner Confirmation Request, 440 Park Avenue South, Fl. 5 Attn: Adopt A Pet Marketing Team, New York, NY 10016, by no later than December 31, 2023. 
  4. SEVERABILITY: If any provision(s) of these Official Rules are held invalid or unenforceable, all remaining provisions hereof will remain in full force and effect. 

All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners in the United States and abroad. All rights reserved.

 

Adopting a Dog

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Below are some articles to help you when you’re getting ready to adopt or have already adopted a dog.

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Specific for puppies

Helpful articles for all pet adopters

Harley Belle from Humane Educational Society of Chattanooga

Harley Belle’s adoption story: I’m a neonatal and critical care kitten and puppy foster mama. Last summer, I got a call (from the Humane Educational Society in Chattanooga, TN) about a mama and her 6-hours-old babies who had been left in a cardboard box on the side of a major road. The cardboard box had no air holes and was so incredibly taped up, it took animal control officers over 10 minutes to even open the box.

Mama and her babies came to stay with me where she raised them all to be the sweetest babies who all got adopted out into our community. Mama stayed in foster care with us after her babies got adopted and we quickly came to realize that she was a missing piece of our family that we never knew we needed. She cuddled our dogs, played with our resident cats, and cuddled up on my boyfriends chest to sleep every night.

We officially adopted her and haven’t looked back since! #catdaysofsummer

About Humane Educational Society of ChattanoogaOur mission at Humane Educational Society is to provide a safe haven for homeless, injured, abused and neglected animals in our community and advocate on their behalf. We believe that each animal deserves a second chance and a loving forever home.

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Penny from Lowell Humane Society

Penny’s adoption story: Penny was love at first sight! We found her in a big cage all by herself in the back of the Lowell Humane Society. She had been napping, but noticed us there and quickly came over to the cage door and started pouring love all over us! She’s incredibly talkative and friendly and follows us around all the time. Penny is a super social cat, she meows and purrs and trills constantly as she’s just so very happy! She loves us so much, always coming up to us looking for petting. She loves her face and ears being rubbed along with her belly! We got very lucky to find Penny as she has brought so much happiness to our lives and honestly is making us better people.

About Lowell Humane SocietyFounded in 1873, the Lowell Humane Society is one of the oldest humane organizations in the state of Massachusetts. The purpose of the Lowell Humane Society is to prevent cruelty to animals, provide care for homeless and distressed animals and educate the public about responsible pet ownership. The shelter is a private not for profit organization and does not receive any city, state or federal funding. Operations are supported through the generous support of individuals, businesses and foundations. Our services include:

* Pet Adoptions
* Humane Education
* Information Services
* Lost and Found Service

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Spartacus from Happy Paws Kitten Rescue

Spartacus’ adoption story: My husband and I were celebrating our 26th anniversary in Greece. One evening we heard what sounded like a kitten crying in distress, so we began searching for it and found an abandoned kitten just hours old. We couldn’t reach him, but after some quick thinking we were able to carefully extend a selfie stick and balance him on the end that holds the phone while slowly pulling him up until we were able to reach him.
Lucky for him we foster neonatal kittens so we already knew what to do with a kitten that small, however, since we weren’t home, we didn’t have any of our usual supplies (bottle, formula, blanket, etc). Knowing time was of the essence for kittens this small, we frantically tried to gather supplies but had difficulties finding what we needed; pet stores were closed, the nearest vet was closed, and the grocery store only had goat’s milk, which we bought as a last resort, however, we had to find a pharmacy to get an eyedropper to feed him.

As we rushed to find a pharmacy that was open, we happened to find a vet that only opened in the evenings. Thankfully he had one box of kitten formula which included a bottle and nipple. We quickly made a bottle and fed him right there; this was just the beginning of our journey…
We tried to find a rescue that could take him, but the few we found would not take a kitten that young. Knowing that we couldn’t just leave him to die, we altered our plans to only include events that we could take the kitten (now named Spartacus) with. I kept him warm by keeping him in my sports bra. We fed him every 2hrs and took him everywhere with us- the subway, tourist events, restaurants, a ferry to the next island, and yes, even the plane back to Athens. When the time came to return to the States, we packed up a little “diaper bag” for him and off we went. The flight was long, and we were happy to be home where I had all my supplies on hand in the nursery we had set up for kittens.

We placed Spartacus, who was now roughly 1.5 weeks old, in the incubator to provide him the best environment so that he could continue thriving. After just a couple of days in the incubator, he started showing signs of separation anxiety, so we decided the best thing for his well-being was to continue taking him everywhere with us since that’s what he was already accustomed to, so that’s what we did.

Our intent was only to foster him, like all the other babies we take in, but we ran into some health issues which included FCKS (Flat Chested Kitten Syndrome), only one working lung, and EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency). Any one of these are life threatening, but to have all of these at one time stacks the odds against him. Not knowing what his fate would be, we worked closely with the vet to try and overcome these things. He’s now 3-months-old and has beaten the odds, proving to be a true Greek warrior! He’s now part of our family and still goes everywhere with us, including out of State trips.

About Happy Paws Kitten RescueHappy Paws Kitten Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to caring for, providing medical treatment, and re-homing homeless, abandoned, and abused cats in East Tennessee. We are also dedicated to promoting proper care of animals through community education and to strengthening the human-animal bond.

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Boog from McPherson County Humane Society

Boog’s adoption story: Meet Boog “aka Custard” aka Lil Booger aka Mr. Boogalou, was adopted officially on 12/2020 from McPherson County Humane Society in McPherson, KS. He was my first foster fail!! I’ve fostered for McPherson County Humane Society off and on for a few years. He came into the shelter with his mom and four other siblings. Unfortunately, Boog needed a little more attention and needed to go into a home where he could be monitored closely. He was barely one pound when I brought him home and was covered in ringworm. After having Boog in our home for a few months, we knew his forever home was with us. He was such a cuddly kitten and needed to be around someone at all times. Boog just fit into our family perfectly. I had lost my orange tabby Morris of 16 years earlier that year and I feel like Boog came along to help me heal. Nowadays Boog spends his day bird watching or participating in the Indy 500 with his brother Hero. Boog is a talker, it can be 3 am or 9 pm and he wants to make sure everyone in the house knows what he’s doing and where he is. #catdaysofsummer

About McPherson County Humane SocietyThe McPherson County Humane Society was founded in 1979. We promote animal welfare and work hard to prevent animal abuse and/or neglect. We constantly stress the need and benefit of having all pets spayed or neutered! We are proud to have a stellar reputation of cleanliness and calmness at our cat shelter, which comfortably houses around 100 cats at any given time. Every one of our cats is tested, vaccinated, and spayed/neutered (age appropriate) before leaving our shelter.

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