One of the best things about owning your own home is having plenty of space for your four-legged friends. Many of the Brighton homes for sale have large, fenced-in yards, making them ideal for families with dogs.

If you're thinking about adding a dog to your family after you settle into your new home, our REALTORS® suggest visiting a few of the local shelters. Since April 23rd is National Lost Dog Awareness Day, now is a great time to consider giving a fur-ever home to a rescued pet. Here are five local area shelters where you can go to meet your new best friend.

1. Humane Society of Livingston County: 2464 Dorr Road Howell, MI 48843
   The Humane Society of Livingston County is committed to housing every animal they accept for as long as it takes to find them suitable permanent homes. Their adoption counselors have a deep understanding of each animal's personality and needs and will help you find the pet that's perfect for your family.
   
   The shelter is open Monday through Saturday from noon until 5 pm and is closed on major holidays. Next time you're in the area looking at Howell homes for sale, stop by and take a look at some of the available pets. 

2. Last Chance Rescue: Adoptions at PetSmart 8537 W E Grand River Ave. Brighton, MI 48116 and 1072 S. Latson Rd. Howell, MI 48843
   Many of the adoptable dogs at Last Chance Rescue have been taken out of kill shelters and placed into foster homes until they can find their fur-ever home. You can meet some of these dogs every Saturday at the Brighton PetSmart, and on Sundays at the Howell PetSmart. Both events are held from noon until 4 p.m. 
   
   
3. Always Hope Animal Rescue: Adoptions at Pet Supplies "PLUS" 2649 E. Grand River, Howell, MI 48843 
   Foster-based rescue group Always Hope Animal Rescue is completely run by volunteers and relies 100 percent on donations. They maintain their list of adoptable pets through the Petfinder website. You can also meet available dogs at their adoption events held on the first and third Saturday of every month at Pet Supplies "PLUS" from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m.  
   
   
4. Adopt-a-Pet Fenton: 13575 N. Fenton Rd. Fenton, MI 48430
   If you've been in the area looking at Fenton home for sale, you might have passed by the former fraternity house that is now home to Adopt-a-Pet Fenton. In addition to adoptable puppies and dogs, they also offer a Senior Friends program to help place older dogs in the homes of senior citizens.   The shelter is closed on Monday and Wednesday. They're open from noon until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, from noon until 7 p.m. on Thursday, and noon until 4 p.m. on Sundays. 

5. Starting Over Airedale Rescue (SOAR): 1721 Peavy Rd. Howell, MI 48843
   If you prefer a purebred dog, you can still choose to adopt instead of shop. Starting Over Airedale Rescue (SOAR) helps re-home purebred Airedale terriers. Although the organization is located in Howell, they have adoption coordinators across the country. 

To begin the adoption process, you'll need to complete an adoption application. Volunteers will then contact your references, conduct a phone interview with you, and complete a home visit. If that goes well, you'll be placed on a waiting list until a dog becomes available that the volunteers believe will be a good fit.

Your Brighton Real Estate Professionals

Are you ready to make your move? Whether you're looking to upsize, downsize, or purchase your first home, we're here to help! Contact Griffith Realty today to discuss your goals and get started.