The cuddle sessions. The long summer walks. The never-ending stream of pictures your friends and family are sure to endure. Sounds like you’re thinking about adopting a puppy, older dog, kitten or cat! It can be fun, exciting, and sometimes even a little scary. But no worries. Here are a few things to consider along the way.
Are You Ready to Give a Pet a New Home?
First things first. Adopting a new pet or a rescue is a big commitment. It takes time, money, patience, and sacrifice. Think hard about all the training, care, interaction, and expenses that come along with it. Are you ready to do this? It’s a huge undertaking - but also hugely rewarding.
Once you’ve decided you’re ready to bring a new dog or cat into your home, Petfinder.com is a great place to start. But it’s not the only option. Check Facebook. Ask friends. Search the net. Tap into local community groups and visit local animal shelters or adoption centers. There are lots of resources out there. Also, take the time to check into their reputations. With online ratings, word-of-mouth, and mission statements, you can learn how animal shelters and foster homes treat their animals and what you can expect during the adoption process.
Adopting a Pet to Match Your Lifestyle
Now it’s time to pick the right dog or cat to welcome into your home, or maybe for your new best friend to pick you. Do you have enough time for a new puppy and the dog training necessary for a new pup? Or would an older dog that is already house-trained fit your lifestyle better? Or maybe you want something even more independent, like a cat. Take your time and know that it’s okay to say no, even though those very cute puppy eyes may be telling you otherwise. You really want to be sure their temperament and personality are the right lifelong match for you, your family, and even young children in your household.
Before you bring home your new furry addition, make sure your house is ready. Take care of any clear issues or dangers. Things like exposed electrical cords should be hidden, small choking hazards removed from the floor or easily accessible areas, and so on. Stock up on chews, toys, and supplies to make the transition smoother.
After you’ve done all of the above, remember you have a huge community of support ready to help. We’re always here to help answer any questions. We can recommend toys, treats, food, and help you with grooming and vet services.
Enjoy every little bit of the journey. The joy a pet can bring into your life is like no other, whether you are adopting a puppy, an adult dog, or a cat looking for a loving home.