42% of the animals we received were turned in by their owners. The reasons they gave are now a part of our application, because we want you to adopt an animal from us, but we want you to know what you're getting into.

We want you to pick an animal that fits your lifestyle, one that you know how to care for, both physically and emotionally, one whose company you'll cherish for his or her lifetime.

Because in one typical year . . .

2,029 animals were turned in because they were strays or lost.

That's why we ask if you intend to keep your cat indoors, and how your dog will be confined to your property.

45 animals were turned in by people who were moving, many simply to another apartment where pets are not allowed.

That's why we ask what you plan to do with your pets if you move.

48 animals were turned in by people who had no time or room for them.

That's why we ask how many hours a day the animal will be left alone, and whether you are a frequent traveler.

405 animals were turned in by people who could not afford to keep them.

That's why we ask how much you expect to spend in a year. Please understand that pet responsibility is not always cheap.

18 animals were turned in due to allergies.

Do you know if you are allergic to that cat you are thinking about? If you are, are you willing to spend additional money on allergy shots?

15 animals were turned in because of landlords or leases.

That's why we insist on speaking with your landlord.

86 animals were turned in due to behavioral problems.

Do you know how to toilet train a dog? How to train a cat to use a scratching post? Did you know that declawed cats often become biters? Do you know which dogs are often aggressive with strangers or with children? Or that canine obedience classes can eliminate many problems cited as reasons for turning in a pet?