Franklin County Animal Shelter

I tried several times to adopt a dog from various pet adoption and rescue programs with no success.  After lookingt at probably hundreds of descriptions of dogs needing homes on line, I contacted different programs.  For each, there were detailed applications to fill out, some requiring a fee before they would even start reviewing my application.  Addresses and phone numbers for my veterinary clinic and personal references were required.  They were all contacted by each program.  There were questions regarding why I wanted a dog and how I would handle certain issues with a dog.  There were questions regarding my home, ownership, layout, fencing, etc.  Next, I was interviewed by phone  and approved for a home visit.  Following the  home visit, I was allowed to meet the dog in the presence of the foster family. This took several weeks and was as far as I ever got.  Although all the programs said I would be able to provide a wonderful home for a dog, the process took so long that the dogs I was interested in were all adopted or their foster families decided to keep them.  All programs suggested I look for another dog and let them know if I found another dog I would like to meet.  Had I actually adopted a dog from one of these programs, the cost of adoption would have been approximately $200.00. I understand now why there are so many  homeless dogs.  It is nearly impossible to go through the pet adoption process in anything resembling a timely manner.
In total frustration after almost 3 months of searching for a dog, I called the Louisburg Animal Shelter and explained what I was looking for.  They were very encouraging and helpful and suggested I visit them.  When I went there the following day, they remembered my call, let me look at all the dogs and, when I asked for help, discussed the disposition, history and personality of various available dogs.  All 5 of the staff I met were positive, upbeat and helpful, much more help that any of the adoption and rescue programs.  The paperwork was  minimal, the cost was $25.00.  And best of all, I found a wonderful dog whom I could take home with me forever.  I initially spoke with Jeff, but everyone there was knowledgeable and helpful.