There comes a point in all of our lives when we just feel it — we really want a pet and the time is right to get one. There are many different avenues for adoption, including many wonderful rescues and shelters near McKinney. This article is for aspiring pet owners looking for adoption resources.
Benefits of Shelter Adoption
Rescuing a pup from a shelter has so many benefits! First, you’re not only saving a life by adopting a dog, but you’re making room in the shelter for another pup. Pet overpopulation is unfortunate, but adopting an animal from a shelter is a win-win: you get a grateful companion and the shelter moves closer toward achieving their mission: to find a happy home for every animal.
Another benefit of going the shelter route is that you pay less for your furry friend. Adopting an animal from a shelter oftentimes has lower fees compared to designer dog breeders who are known for charging the big bucks.
Lastly, you get to skip the often-dreaded puppy/kitten phase! While younger animals are, in fact, adorable, they can come with predictably destructive behavior (teething, clawing, chewing, jumping, etc.) and can be a lot more work. Depending on your lifestyle, adopting an adult dog or cat might be the best option for you.
If any of these benefits resonate so far, read on to find resources that may be helpful as you search for your future fur baby.
Collin County Animal Services
Collin County Animal Services is a multifaceted organization that is known for its advocacy of the animals it serves. They provide services including
- looking for and/or reporting a lost animal
- reclaiming a pet of your own that was lost
- estray livestock notices and auctions
- low-cost vaccinations for both pups and cats
- educational resources from rabies information to puppy socialization
If you are looking to adopt, they even provide a $25 online 
coupon good for any regular adoption! If you want your pet to have specific attributes, their site allows you to search and filter by species, breed, sex, and even color. I can testify that my own experience finding my cat, George, at the Collin County Animal Services was an easy and exciting process that made the experience that much better!
Allen Animal Shelters near McKinney
The Allen Animal Services group has a facility where you can meet pets in person at 770 S. Allen Heights drive. You can also look at their online petfinder page to identify a possible match.
SPCA
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or SPCA, is an organization that specializes in caring for animals. This organization is actually the most comprehensive and longest-serving animal welfare agency in all of North Texas. From adoption to vaccination events to training resources, the SPCA does it all!
The SPCA of Texas’ Dallas Animal Care Center offers daily adoptions of dogs, cats, and small mammals from 12 pm to 6 pm.
The Myron K. Martin Spay/Neuter & Wellness Clinic offers services including wellness appointments, spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, microchipping, and heartworm testing and prevention.
In addition to medical and adoption services, the Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit of the SPCA works closely with law enforcement and animal control agencies to investigate reports of animal abuse/neglect and assist with the rescue and care of animals that have suffered.
Puppy Rescue Mission
Located in Celina, TX, Puppy Rescue Mission, or PRM, is an organization that makes adopting a pup so much more meaningful. PRM is a charitable organization that helps rescue dogs and cats from overseas and introduces them to loving homes. They offer adoption services and works hard to improve the lives of not only the dogs they serve, but also the lives of those who have and still are serving in our military. Their slogan, “Soldiers saving puppies, puppies saving soldiers,” is the perfect explanation for the core values of this organization.
Operation Kindness
Operation Kindness is a no-kill animal shelter located in Carrolton, Texas that strives to assist animals in need of veterinary care, companionship, and finding a home! Services include pet adoptions, medical care, foster care, resources for pet owners, veterinary services, volunteer opportunities, and a pet food pantry. Operation Kindness even throws fun events, such as galas, as a way to raise funds and awareness for the needy cats and dogs in Texas. If you are looking to adopt a pet, visit the Operation Kindness website to learn about available animals and hopefully find the one that is the right fit for you and your family!
Rescuing an animal in need of a home is a perfect way to adopt. There are so many organizations in the North Texas area that offer the education and resources that make adopting a pup or cat a seamless, fun, and exciting process!
