Pet adoption means saving lives while receiving love, loyalty, and companionship in return. It’s a rewarding commitment, but a commitment nonetheless. Before adopting, consider the following to ensure you and your new pet have a successful and happy relationship.
Adoption source
When seeking adoptable pets, especially puppies, beware of puppy mills and fraudulent breeders.
- Mills and fraudulent breeders often advertise online; many even pose as legitimate rescue groups with professional-looking sites
- Pets for sale in pet stores often come from mills
- Begin with local shelters and rescue groups
- Pets from mills, internet sellers, and disreputable breeders are often sick or at higher risk for genetic problems
Adopting from a shelter saves the life of the adopted pet and frees space and resources for other homeless pets.
Size and energy
Factor in how a pet will fit into your space both in terms of size and energy level. Cats and dogs need space to roam, play, hide, and rest comfortably. Large dogs and some high-energy dogs are better suited for larger spaces or homes with yards. Be sure you can provide appropriate daily exercise and mental stimulation no matter the size of your pet or your space.
Age
Young pets require more attention and training than older ones do. Adopting a puppy or kitten usually requires dealing with temporary issues such as interrupted sleep, accidents, near unlimited energy, hours of training, and possibly property destruction. Be realistic about your commitment to this, and consider an older pet if handling a young one doesn’t appeal.
Time
Potential adopters may worry they don’t have enough time for a pet. Generally, dogs and cats are better off hanging out alone while you’re at work than they are living and possibly dying in shelters. That said, pets have basic needs that require time: play time, walk time, poop time, feeding time, bonding time. Consider your schedule, any reasonable adjustments you’re willing to make, and whether a pet can fit in.
Budget
Before adopting, consider expenses and what you’ll need immediately and in the future:
- Collars, harnesses, and leashes
- Litter boxes
- Bedding
- Toys and scratching posts
- Food and dishes
- Medication
- Veterinary visits (including annual wellness checkups, vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental cleanings, and emergencies)
Research if pet health insurance is right for your pet or opt for a dedicated savings account.
Adjustment period
Dogs and cats need time and patience to adjust to their new environment. Shelter pets can be wary, anxious, and untrusting. The general guidelines, according to ASPCA, include the rule of threes:
The first three days may include anxiety, stress, and fear. Be calm, patient, and give pets space to observe and adjust without forcing interaction. Begin routines your pet can rely on such as set meal times, bed times, treat times, etc. Having structure and being able to rely on routines are crucial for their sense of security.
The next three weeks is when pets begin to settle and become more comfortable in their new situation. Practice basic training, be consistent with routines, and always use positive reinforcement while getting to know your pet.
Three months is generally the time it takes for an adopted pet to become fully acclimated to their new home, family, and routines; although many pets may take longer to adjust. Pets will begin to trust and let their personalities show.
For more detailed information, visit the ASPCA’s guide to the first three months.
Lifestyle match
The temperament and needs of your new cat or dog should match your lifestyle. Talk to shelter staff and review notes on attributes and needs of the cat or dog. Respecting these benefits the pet and you, and is necessary for successful, permanent placement.
Common terminology:
- Best as an only pet
- Will benefit from training/ready to learn new tricks/knows certain commands
- Has lots of energy/great hiking partner
- Prefers to be a lap-cat
- Couch potato
- Shy at first/takes time to warm up
- Great with children or other pets
- Best for households without children
If you don’t see a description or if you have specific questions about how a pet will adjust to your lifestyle/home, ask before adopting instead of finding out after you’ve brought home a pet.
Impact on household
If you have pets at home, consider how they may react to a new family member. Even friendly, calm pets can react negatively to another dog or cat in their space. Some facilities allow adopters to bring their dogs for a nose-to-nose meeting in a designated area. Before bringing a current pet to a shelter, speak with staff about whether it’s allowed and how it works.
Additionally, be sure all human members of your household are okay with impending changes and challenges. Discuss division of labor regarding care, agreed methods of training, and any other responsibilities.
Overlooked pets
It’s a misconception that long-term shelter residents are problem pets. Many are there due to circumstances such as the death or illness of their person, housing restrictions, or because they’ve become lost without identification. Unfortunate biases also exist regarding breed and even coat color.
Talk to shelter staff about why they’ve been waiting for someone to take them home for so long.
While it’s true that long or repeated shelter stays can affect anxiety levels of pets, it shouldn’t be a deal breaker. These pets are often trained, loving, healthy pets that will thrive outside the shelter if given a chance. Personalities can be stifled in shelter situations where animals are exposed to strange people, other animals, medical procedures, and uncertainty about what’s happening and what’s to come.
Most pets in shelters undergo behavior assessments, and shelter staff will share details about pets’ needs and what adopters should know.
Finally, when adopting a pet, establish a relationship with a veterinarian right away. Making an appointment for a checkup is the best way to create a baseline health assessment, discuss a care plan, and set your pet up for the healthiest life possible.
Give us call to schedule a checkup for your recently adopted dog or cat: (505) 299-9533.