Maryland SPCA Needs Forever Homes For Adult Dogs

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Every year, tens of thousands of stray animals have to be put to death because not enough people take them into their homes.

Now, as Mike Schuh reports, Maryland's SPCA has joined a nationwide program to get more pets adopted.

Rescued dogs are all ready to go to new homes.

Gizmo, a white Collie mix, and Gadget, part Retriever, were both adopted.

"In the four weeks we've had them together, they've really bonded and it makes for a happy house," said Steve Merkel, double adopter.

Gadget and Gizmo are some of the 3,000 dogs and cats that go out the door at the Maryland SPCA.

And there are many more available like a riveting Beagle mix called Sky, named after his eyes.

"October is national Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog month, and it's a great time to get an adult dog from somewhere like the Maryland SPCA," said Aileen Gabbey, Maryland SPCA.

Adult dogs like Gizmo and Gadget are the ones they want you to come and get. They don't have any trouble adopting out puppies.

"It's understandable that people like to get puppies and grow old with them," Gabbey said. "But puppies can be challenging, get in to trouble, housebreak, but an adult dog doesn't have as many challenges."

Merkel is happy with his choices.

"Be prepared to get a little bit of love. But what you give you get back in return. I can't recommend it enough to come to a place like SPCA and find yourself a critter like Gizmo for some forever love," Merkel said.

The cost for a puppy is $195. For adult dogs it's $125. But dogs and cats over seven years old are free.