Wisconsin Shelter Dogs & Adopters Get to Have ‘Test Drives’

The Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission has launched a new program that allows potential adopters to have a “test drive” with the shelter dog they want to take home. With more animals needing forever homes, the Wisconsin animal shelter hopes to increase adoption rates with its new program.

Potential adopters can have ‘test drives’ with dogs in Milwaukee shelter

On May 15, the Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission officially launched its new program. Prospective adopters can take a pup home to observe how they react to their new environment. This period also helps adopters better understand whether the dog is a good fit .

By Wednesday, May 22, 15 dogs had been taken home for “test drives.” The animal shelter considers this a huge success. Although not all 15 canines were adopted , only two pups were returned to the shelter. Moreover, the dogs leaving the shelter for several days is excellent for their overall well-being. The pups get to decompress in a warm home with loving family members.

The program allows potential adopters to foster the canine of their choice for five days . They can observe if the dog fits their family well within this period. If they are a good match, the adopters get a discount on the pup’s adoption fee.

If they aren’t a good match, they will be asked to fill out a form instead, per WPR . Moreover, potential adopters must discuss the canine’s personality and traits in the form to help future adopters. This will help the shelter find a better match for the pup next time around.

Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission’s community engagement coordinator, Kate Hartlund, noted that the number of unwanted and abandoned animals keeps growing. She also stated that it is hard to determine if a canine is the right fit after meeting them for a few minutes. So, the shelter’s new program gives people five days to choose the perfect companion for their household.

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