There are some real misconceptions about pet adoption that can keep great pet owners from adopting a pet:

Myth # 1  - There is something wrong with the homeless pets available for adoption.   The Truth is that pets come into rescue because their owners were unwilling or unable to care for them for a variety of reasons

Myth #2 - Adult dogs and cats cannot form strong loving bonds with their guardians.  The Truth is that anyone who opens their home and their heart to an adult pet receives more love than they could ever possibly imagine.

Myth #3 - You can't teach an old dog new tricks.   The Truth is that mature pets actually learn more quickly because they are more focused and can concentrate better

Myth # 4 - Pets that have been neglected and abused do not make safe family pets.  The Truth is that most pets can be rehabilitated and become deeply devoted to those kind enough to take the time to polish up these 'Diamonds in the Ruff"  Reputable rescues NEVER hide known behavior issues because they want each adoption to succeed.

Myth # 5 - Its kinder to euthanize a disabled pet than to leave the pet in a cage in a shelter.   The Truth is that pets do not bring our human hangups to the table.... and their disabilities are often part of their charm.   Disabled pets have interesting and heartwarming stories that make it easier to promote them

Myth # 6 - There are not enough homes for all the pets in need, so some must be killed.  The Truth is that when lifesaving tools such as adoption incentives, good customer service, user friendly shelter hours and offsite adoptions are used, it has been proven that the healthy and adoptable pets find good homes and do not need to be killed.

I know that I say it all the time on The NS Homeless Pet Project Blog , but the real truth is that there is more love than anyone could possibly imagine waiting for those kind enough to open their homes and their hearts to give a second hand pet the chance to have a first rate life.

Most animal lovers 'see with their hearts' when they choose their best friend(s). Yet the things that move us are all different as we each are. For some its the cute little face. Others are drawn by the name. Some selections are inspired by good behavior and/or an engaging 'trick'.
Sadly, there are still quite a few great homes that don't see themselves as potential pet adopters because of the urban legends associated with the screening process. If one goes to any social gathering not frequented by animal rescue volunteers, its a sure thing that bringing up the subject of pet adoption will elicit some tale of Uncle Rob or cousin Hank who were great fellas but couldn't adopt.
The adoption screening process isn't difficult. It is what it is ... a screening process to weed out applicants whose history raises any red flags. What it is not .... at least for anyone with a proven track record of being a responsible pet owner.... is difficult in any way.
Its a shame that its not common knowledge that the rescues and shelters aren't just screening .... that they are also 'matching'. They know that pets are not a 'universal one size fits all' thing to be chosen for cuteness or breed alone. Every pet is a unique individual and simply will not be suited to everyone who applies.
The budding agility star won't be content with a couch potato. Some of the smaller breeds simply aren't suited for younger children. Busy households might not have the time to get a youngster off on the right paw.
The questions on adoption applications for reputable rescues and shelters are designed to protect potential adopters. This is particularly important for families with small children or households that already have a pet. For instance, the dog that can't resist the thrill of the chase won't be the one to go to a home that already has a cat. Not every dog gets along well with other dogs. And of course, not every pet has the training and confidence to be an appropriate companion for a small child.
There are a lot of advantages to applying for a preapproved pet adoption. Nobody knows the individual animals better than the people who are fostering and caring for them. Even better, at least here in this province, rescues often work together to find the right fit for both pets and adopters. In many instances it is the only way as infants and popular breeds often don't get listed on petfinder.
Matchmaking might have seen its best day in the matrimonial market, but its a surefire formula for lifelong success for potential pet owners.