Patch's Adopt a Pet of the Week

Video Gives Insight into Adoptable Pet's Personality

Patches is available at Placing Paws Rescue in Libertyville.

  It seems like almost everyone discovers the ideal pet to adopt on the Internet these days. Whether you use Petfinder.com or specifically look at a rescue's website, locate a dog or cat, and e-mail them about your choice, you see the heart-tugging photos of the dogs and cats who need homes. These pix are nice, but they don't really capture the true spirit of the animals. Now some rescue sites are using videos to let you see how these guys interact with other pets, and sometimes how well trained they can be.  PAWS in Chicago is a pioneer of this great method of letting the pet's true personality come alive online. Another is Placing Paws Rescue in Libertyville. Check out Patches from Placing Paws Rescue, and view the attached video. …

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Patch's Adopt a Pet of the Week

Zuk, Gixxie Abandoned; Seek New Owners

Indiana-based shelter is worth the drive.

  There are many great shelters who rescue dogs and cats in Illinois. However, sometimes you can find an amazing pet at a shelter in a neighboring state if you do an online search. I found two adorable dogs at the Animal Protection League in Anderson, Ind. Located near Indianapolis, it is about a five-hour drive and well worth it to see these two dogs. They were surrendered when their owner could not care for them. The adoption fee is very reasonable at $100, which  covers the cost of spay/neuter, vaccinations, de-worming, and heart worm test. Microchip available for an additional $20. That is much less than most shelters charge in the Chicago area. Call them at (765) 356-0902 for more information. Email them at info@inapl.org, or visit …

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13 Surprisingly Easy Ways to Help Homeless Pets

Petfinder website has a variety of ways to make a difference.

    There are many ways you can help homeless pets this holiday season -- some of which require only your time. Read on for easy ways you can help shelters and rescue groups through the Petfinder.com Foundation, which exists solely to support the 13,500-plus organizations that post their adoptable pets on Petfinder. Lucy found a home thanks, in part, to a Petfinder.com Foundation grant to Braxton County (WV) Animal Shelter. Thanks to everyone who has helped make a difference in the lives of homeless pets. If you can only do one thing this year, think about giving your time at your local shelter. Want to learn more about helping homeless pets this holiday season? PetFinder.com is hosting a live Q&A with its director of shelter outreach from…

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