Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it often comes with misconceptions that can create unnecessary stress or hesitation for prospective adopters. By separating myth from reality, pet parents can feel more confident, prepared and empowered as they begin this journey. With the right expectations - and the right tools - transitioning your new companion into their forever home can be a smooth and joyful process.
We partnered with North Shore Animal League America to debunk some of the most common adoption myths amongst prospective pet parents:
MYTH #1:
My new pet will act just as they did at the adoption center.
TRUTH: Your pet will likely act differently at home. The shelter environment is loud and intimidating. Following sound training for your pet is important for them to acclimate. Patience and persistence will be needed for everyone to settle in.
MYTH #2:
It's better to adopt a puppy or kitten.
TRUTH: Puppies and kittens are adorable, and people believe they can be trained to meet adopter expectations.
However, older pets have much to offer - house-trained, personalities show during decision period, can be better suited to your lifestyle - less energy and training needed. Very grateful pets and heightened altruistic rewards for the adopter.
MYTH #3:
I will be on my own with no advice once I leave with my new pet.
TRUTH: Extensive discussion with adoption counselors helps to ensure the best match but sometimes follow-up advice is needed. North Shore animal League America’s behavior team can help with advice after adoption is completed. Sometimes home check-ins are conducted for additional support.
MYTH #4:
North Shore Animal League America does not have a veterinary hospital.
TRUTH: In addition to caring for the shelter animals, the Pet Health Centers is an American Animal Hospital Association-accredited veterinary medical center providing low-cost, high-quality care to any pet by appointments.
MYTH #5:
All pets will get along at home.
TRUTH: It's important to have a “meet & greet” prior to adopting your pet. Integrate pets to each other and other family members under a controlled environment at home.
MYTH #6:
Shelter pets are damaged or have behavior problems.
TRUTH: Most older pets in shelters are there due to life changes in their families. The adoption center teams spend extensive time getting to know the animal and assess the behavior and health prior to putting them up for adoption.
MYTH #7:
Shelter pets are unhealthy.
TRUTH: High-quality standards are in place to ensure healthy environments. It is common for "kennel coughs" to develop, but these clear up when home after proper medical treatment. Any ailments that occur in the shelter are treated. Many times, pets are not cleared for adoption until an illness is resolved. For pets with medical conditions, North Shore Animal League America has special programs to cover the medical costs associated with an ailment for the life of select pets. Everyone is encouraged to prepare for unforeseen medical needs and expenses. Enrolling your pet with health insurance is encouraged.
MYTH #8:
Shelters only have older, mixed breeds.
TRUTH: North Shore Animal League America, as is the case with most adoption centers, has a variety of ages and breeds of cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens. While most may be mixed breeds, there are full breed dogs that become available for adoption also. What’s most important is the care and respect they deserve from loving, responsible adopters.
MYTH #9:
Adopted pets won't bond well with their pet parents.
TRUTH: This is categorically disproven! The unconditional bonds of love develop between people and pets irrespective of the pets’ origins.
Sharing “self-care” moments, like brushing your pet can strengthen the connection between you and your new fur baby.
MYTH #10:
All at home grooming tools are not made well and/or difficult to use.
TRUTH: Tweezerman has over 40 years in experience in delivering high quality, innovative and best in class beauty tools rooted in precision, performance and craftsmanship. Tweezerman’s pet collection brings our expertise into the grooming space with premium tools designed for both pets and their people. Developed alongside vets and groomers, this collection delivers safe, reliable, professional-quality grooming solutions in the comfort of your own home.
Ultimately, successful pet adoption is rooted in patience, education, and ongoing care. When pet parents understand the realities behind common myths, they are better equipped to nurture strong, lasting relationships with their animals. Establishing consistent routines - whether through training, feeding or grooming-helps pets feel safe and secure in their new environment. Incorporating high-quality tools can elevate these everyday moments into opportunities for connection, trust, and long-term health. With the right mindset and resources, every adoption story has the potential to become a truly rewarding lifelong bond.
