SALT LAKE CITY — “I’ll adopt a big dog when I have a house.”

Does that sound familiar?

During October, the Best Friends Animal Society wants more people to consider adopting big dogs. So they’ve waived the adoption fees at their Lifesaving Center in Salt Lake City.

The society reports that animal shelters and rescue groups across the state are filled with dogs that weigh over 40 pounds. Those big dogs tend to have a longer stay at shelters and are overlooked by adopters. It’s harder to find foster homes for large dog breeds according to Best Friends.

“Our goal is to get as many big dogs as possible out of shelters and into homes this October,” said Julie Castle, chief executive officer of Best Friends Animal Society.

“Right now, there is a shelter crisis going on across the country, with many shelters at, or beyond, full capacity.”

Best Friends said that in 2021, in shelters across the country, dog intake increased by nearly three times the rate of dog adoptions.

Debunking big dog myths

The fee-free October is part of the Best Friend Society’s “Love Large” adoption campaign. The shelter says big dogs can be part of almost any home, no matter the size.

“There are so many myths about big dogs that we need to debunk,” said Castle. Some things to consider about big dogs:

• they can make great pets for apartment living,
• big dogs tend to bark less than their smaller counterparts,
• these dogs can be a great addition to homes with kids and cats, and
• big dogs are sometimes just oversized lap dogs who can give double the cuddles.

The Humane Society said it’s important to remember a few things about larger dogs when making your decision. Consider the cost of dog food and whether you have the space to store food for a large breed. 

Dogs of all sizes need exercise, especially if they are a consider adopting big dogs like a border collie, golden retriever, labrador, or German shepherd. The Humane Society asks that you assure you have the time to spend exercising a bigger dog.

And if you are unable to commit to adoption, Best Friends says you can still make an impact to a large dog as a foster. In these cases, food, supplies and medical treatment are typically provided for free.

Related reading:

• US animal shelters are filling up

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