You are looking for a new family member. Do you want a dog or cat? Where do you start?

That’s where rescue shelters can help. The staff at Adams County Pet Rescue is trained to help you find the perfect pet for you and your family.

To begin with, prospective adopters fill out an application that asks a fairly intensive number of questions. Everything from the type of home you live in to other pets you already have to how you plan to train your new animal is covered.

When you return the application, a staff member goes over it with a fine-toothed comb and makes notes.

Kaylee Gaddis said they also use Google maps or drive past a home to see the actual location.

“A lot of people say they have a fence, but when we Google their address, we find out they don’t,” she said. “We do not condone chaining a dog up.”

Gaddis said they also pay close attention to what is said on the application. For example, if asked what they would do if a pet became destructive, some people may say they would lock it in a room.

“That could be a red flag,” Gaddis said.

The shelter is also particular about the experience a new owner may have with a breed they are considering. If someone lives in an apartment and wants to foster a big dog, they would probably recommend against it.

“We are also picky about kids in the home,” Gaddis said. “We want to be sure the dog is good with them.”

Sometimes, they get interesting answers to the questions, such as why they would return the pet and if they know how much the yearly cost is for a dog or cat.

“Some say ‘I don’t know’ and that’s OK,” Gaddis said.

It typically takes two to three days to adopt a new pet, but it can take longer if the shelter has a hard time getting a straight answer to a question.

Gaddis said she recommends older dogs or cats to elderly adopters.

“A pet can bring them back to life,” she said. “And an older animal is usually more settled, calmer. It’s sometimes hard to train a puppy, so for an older dog, it means a better home.”

She also said it gets the elderly walking and gives them someone to talk to. The pet becomes their attachment. They get a new vibe and energy by having to now take care of the new pet.

More information about adopting a pet is available on the ACPR website, along with the application. Or stop by the shelter during regular hours to see what animals are available.

“We can find anyone the perfect pet,” Gaddis said. “But we really have to reach into their lives.”

Adams County Pet Rescue is located at 1961 Bench Road east of the fairgrounds. Hours are noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The facility is closed Mondays and Thursdays for cleaning. To contact ACPR, call (509) 488-5514 or email adopt@AdamsCountyPetRescue. Be sure to visit the website at www.adamscountypetrescue.com and like their Facebook page.