Get To Know Big And Tall Singles During Petco's National Adoption Weekend

SAN DIEGO, July 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowledge is power and Petco hopes to educate potential pet parents about large breed dogs such as American Pit Bull Terriers, American bulldogs, Labrador Retrievers, German shepherds and more during its monthly National Adoption Weekend taking place July 13-14, 2013. Of all the dogs in shelters, large breed dogs are among those most in need of adoption and deserve just as much love and care as any other pet. According to the Humane Society of the United States, roughly one dog is euthanized every eight seconds, which is why Petco is aiming to place the focus on large breed dogs, and all adoptable pets in need, this month.

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Petco's National Adoption Weekend events are a wonderful opportunity for those interested in adopting to learn more about pet adoption and large breed adoption in general. There will be a variety of animals seeking new homes at Petco locations nationwide and attendees can learn how to properly care for a new pet's physical, mental, social and emotional needs.

Although large breeds tend to be misunderstood, they can be the greatest companions to those who are ready for the responsibility. Here are some facts to keep in mind about large breed ownership for those looking for a new pet:

• Research conducted in 2000 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that no specific breed of dog is inherently confrontational.
• Large breeds score an 83.4% passing rate with the American Temperament Test Society, which is much higher than many other breeds!
• Large breeds are very social dogs and were so popular in the 1900s that Poodles, Airedales, Dobermans, German Shepherds and American Pit Bull Terriers served as the U.S. Army's mascots in World War I & II. Their image was even displayed on propaganda and recruiting posters.
• Today, large breeds are used in Search and Rescue work where their mental skills are constantly being tested. Their skills played a crucial role in rescuing and reuniting families with their loved ones during disasters such as 9/11, the Japanese earthquake and the devastating Oklahoma tornado.
• German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers are some of the most common drug & bomb-sniffing dogs. These extremely intelligent large breeds act as everyday heroes because they help keep airports safe and prevent narcotics from entering/exiting the country.
• Due to the strength and physique of large breed dogs, owners are encouraged to socialize their dogs and participate in obedience training.
• Large breed dogs make ideal pets for families with children since they require lots of physical activity and play time. It's important to keep in mind that some large breed dogs naturally require more exercise than smaller breeds.
• Large breed dogs like Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds are some of the most popular apartment dogs because they are relatively calm and require less exercise than other, higher energy breeds.

For those ready to welcome a large breed dog or any new pet into their home, Petco and Unleashed by Petco locations nationwide will be hosting adoption events the weekend of July 13-14, 2013. Pet adoption times may vary, so it's recommended to contact the nearest location for adoption hours.

To find more information about Petco's adoption event in your area, please visit petco.com/adoptions.

About Petco
Petco is a leading pet specialty retailer that provides the products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. Everything we do is guided by our vision for Healthier Pets. Happier People. Better World. We operate more than 1,200 stores nationwide and in Puerto Rico, including more than 50 Unleashed by Petco locations, a smaller format neighborhood shop, and www.petco.com. The Petco Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization, has raised more than $110 million since it was created in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support thousands of local animal welfare groups across the country and, through in-store adoption events, help find homes for more than 350,000 animals every year.

Contact:
Allie Maltese
619.501.2796
[email protected]

SOURCE Petco

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