When it comes to adopting pets during the holidays, the Phoenix Metro Chamber of Commerce wants to help dogs and cats find their forever homes. That’s one reason the chamber, which serves the Greater Phoenix metro area, is teaming up with Floor & Decor in Glendale to host a Pet Adoption Day on Saturday, December 15.

The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 5880 W. Bell Road, and benefit the non-profit foster groups, Arf-Anage Dog Rescue and Saving Orphan Souls Rescue.

“This is the time of year that many people are tempted to surprise their family or friend with a lovable, furry pet. While we want folks to come out and adopt a dog or a cat, we also want to make sure the adoption is a good match,” said Jason Bressler, founder and executive director of the Phoenix Metro Chamber of Commerce (PMCC).

Cathy Roe Mullooly is the founder and CEO of Arf-Anage Dog Rescue, which is a non-profit, all-breed dog rescue specializing in care, rehabilitation and rehoming of momma dogs and pups in local shelters, and pups with medical conditions. Ro Perez is CEO and founder of Saving Orphan Souls Rescue, a dual feline and small dog rescue group that provides a loving, safe environment with proper medical care to those orphaned souls left out on the streets, dumped at the county shelters, or animals that are abused or relinquished by their owners. They offered these tips for adopting a pet during the holiday season:

1. Don’t make it a surprise

Spur-of-the-moment, emotional decisions sometimes backfire, so tell your family or friend that you want to help them adopt a pet and bring them with you. If there are any dogs at home, bring them too, to make sure they get along with the dog or cat up for adoption.

2. Consider lifestyle factors
If your loved one is older or has health challenges, a grown pet might be a better fit. Conversely, a young energetic puppy might do better with a family that has a big yard. Be sure to consider family members’ allergies too.

3. Prepare your home ahead of time
Certain holiday decorations, like tinsel and ribbons, can be hazardous to dogs and cats who chew and swallow them. In addition, poinsettia plants and chocolate are poisonous to pets who eat them. Make sure your home is safe before bringing your new furry family member home.

4. Establish a routine
Your new pet will need time to get used to his or her new surroundings and establishing routines will help them feel more secure. Try to feed, walk, and play with them around the same time each day.

5. Be patient
The holidays can be stressful for everyone, including pets. If possible, carve out extra time to play or snuggle with them. If your new pet is exhibiting negative behaviors, like scratching furniture or having potty accidents inside the house, ask your vet or an animal advocate for some advice to help them break bad habits.

For more details, visit www.phoenixmetrochamber.com or call (480) 664-0077.