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Pets are man's best friends. While some believe that dogs rule and others favor felines, many agree that pets are loyal and life-changing. However, some pets have no home to be loyal to, as currently five to seven million cats and dogs are in animal shelters.

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter is a process that is rewarding for both the owner and the pet. While the pet has a new home, the owner is assured that the pet is healthy and happy. Before being admitted to one of America's 3,500 animal shelters, each pet undergoes an examination to make sure they are in good enough shape to be taken care of. Additionally, each shelter pet is given vaccinations once they are adopted.

If you go to an animal shelter to find the perfect pet, you must know what questions to ask when you get to the shelter. If you find a pet you like, be sure to ask about its history. While it is irresponsible to judge strictly on past events, it is important to know whether your potential new family member works well around kids, is a stray or given up by an owner, or has been through traumatic events.

It is also important to ask about the pet's medical history and behavioral tendencies. By asking about the pet's behavior, you are assuring that the pet would be able to fit into your way of life.

Different shelters have different adoption processes, so also ask about the way the shelter does adoptions. While some shelters can make you wait for a week or more, other shelters allow you to come home with your new pet.

Finally, as Bob Barker says, be sure to get your pets spayed or neutered. Most shelters make sure the pet is spayed or neutered before adoption, but it doesn't hurt to ask to be safe.

Every pet deserves a home. With five to seven million pets without a home or a family, you can do your part to make sure every pet finds their best friend.